Explore the captivating history of Galway on this engaging medieval walking tour. Guided by a local expert, you will explore the city’s iconic landmarks and uncover the stories behind the influential 14 Tribes of Galway. From Eyre Square to St. Nicholas Collegiate Church, this 1.5-hour experience offers a unique opportunity to learn about the rich architectural and cultural heritage of this vibrant Irish city. Priced affordably starting at $22.22 per person, this tour promises to be a highlight for anyone interested in uncovering the fascinating past that has shaped Galway’s present.

Key Points

Galway: Medieval Walking Tour - Key Points

  • The 1.5-hour guided walking tour explores Galway’s medieval heritage, showcasing landmarks like Eyre Square, Lynchs Castle, and St. Nicholas Collegiate Church.
  • The tour highlights the influential 14 Tribes of Galway, the powerful merchant families that shaped the city’s character and architecture.
  • Participants can learn about Galway’s historical significance, including the remnants of the medieval city walls and the archaeological significance of the Hall of the Red Earl.
  • The tour is led by local experts who provide insights into Galway’s captivating past, including the stories and legacies of the city’s prominent families.
  • The tour is wheelchair accessible, although historic locations may pose challenges, and includes a Fáilte Ireland Regional Guide and discounted entry to St. Nicholas Church.
You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

Galway: Medieval Walking Tour - Tour Overview and Pricing

The tour offers a 1.5-hour guided walking experience through medieval Galway, with prices starting from $22.22 per person.

Travelers can cancel their reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, and they don’t have to pay anything upfront to secure their spot.

The tour takes visitors to see historical sites like the city walls, Lynchs Castle, St. Nicholas Church, and the Spanish Arch, among others.

Along the way, the local guide will share insights into Galway’s medieval history and the influential families who shaped the city, including the famous 14 Tribes.

Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking to explore Galway’s charming streets, this tour provides a compelling glimpse into the past.

Experience Highlights

Galway: Medieval Walking Tour - Experience Highlights

On this guided walking tour of medieval Galway, visitors can expect to discover the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks. The local guide will lead participants through the charming streets, providing insights into Galway’s influential families and the significance of sites like the city walls, Lynchs Castle, and St. Nicholas Church.

Location Historical Significance
Eyre Square Remnants of the medieval city walls
Lynchs Castle Oldest mansion in Galway, now an AIB bank
St. Nicholas Collegiate Church Over 700 years old, used as a stable by Cromwell’s soldiers

The tour also includes visits to the Hall of the Red Earl, Kirwans Lane, Blakes Castle, and the iconic Spanish Arch, giving visitors a comprehensive understanding of Galway’s captivating medieval heritage.

Key Locations and Historical Significance

Galway: Medieval Walking Tour - Key Locations and Historical Significance

Eyre Square showcases the remnants of Galway’s medieval city walls, which now lie within the Eyre Square Shopping Centre.

Lynchs Castle, the oldest mansion in Galway, has been repurposed as an AIB bank.

Over 700 years old, St. Nicholas Collegiate Church served as a stable for Cromwell’s soldiers during the 17th century.

The Hall of the Red Earl is a significant archaeological site with remnants of medieval structures.

Kirwans Lane, one of five existing lanes named after the influential Kirwan family, offers a glimpse into Galway’s past.

Blakes Castle, a former jail, has been restored in the 1980s.

The iconic Spanish Arch holds historical relevance to the Claddagh, a former fishing village.

Meeting Point and Important Details

Galway: Medieval Walking Tour - Meeting Point and Important Details

Visitors meet at the Browne Doorway in Eyre Square, arriving 15 minutes before the tour’s start time.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, though not suitable for wheelchair users.

Included in the experience are a Fáilte Ireland Regional Guide and discounted entrance to St. Nicholas Church. Adults can explore the 700-year-old church for €7, while concessions are €5.50.

It’s important to note that the tour doesn’t allow smoking, alcohol, drugs, audio recording, or bachelor/bachelorette party groups.

Guests should come prepared with comfortable shoes, an umbrella, a camera, a credit card, water, cash, and weather-appropriate clothing to make the most of their medieval walking adventure in Galway.

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What to Bring and Restrictions

Galway: Medieval Walking Tour - What to Bring and Restrictions

To make the most of the medieval walking tour in Galway, guests should come prepared with comfortable shoes, an umbrella, a camera, a credit card, water, cash, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Smoking, alcohol, drugs, audio recording, and bachelor/bachelorette party groups aren’t allowed during the experience. This is to ensure a smooth and enjoyable tour for all participants.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, but it may not be suitable for wheelchair users due to the historic nature of the locations visited.

Explore Galway’s Medieval Heritage

Galway: Medieval Walking Tour - Explore Galways Medieval Heritage

Galway: Medieval Walking Tour

Explore Galway’s Medieval Heritage

The medieval walking tour in Galway immerses visitors in the city’s rich historical tapestry, showcasing its captivating landmarks and revealing the influential families that shaped its past.

As the tour progresses, you will:

  1. Witness the remnants of the city’s ancient walls, preserved within the Eyre Square Shopping Centre.

  2. Step inside the grand Lynchs Castle, the oldest mansion in Galway, now serving as an AIB bank.

  3. Discover the historic St. Nicholas Collegiate Church, which was used as a stable by Cromwell’s soldiers during the 17th century.

Throughout the journey, the guide weaves together the captivating narratives that have defined Galway’s medieval legacy.

Uncover the 14 Tribes of Galway

Galway: Medieval Walking Tour - Uncover the 14 Tribes of Galway

As the tour explores Galway’s medieval legacy, it also uncovers the influential 14 Tribes of Galway – the powerful merchant families who dominated the city for centuries.

These prominent families, including the Lynches, Kirwans, and Blakes, controlled the city’s trade and politics. Their wealth and influence shaped Galway’s character, leaving an indelible mark on its architecture and culture.

Visitors will learn about the dynamic histories of these families, whose legacies continue to resonate in Galway today.

From the stately Lynchs Castle to the picturesque Kirwans Lane, the tour offers a glimpse into the lives and times of the 14 Tribes, providing a deeper understanding of Galway’s rich medieval heritage.

Discover Iconic Landmarks and Sites

Galway: Medieval Walking Tour - Discover Iconic Landmarks and Sites

The medieval walking tour takes visitors on a journey through Galway’s storied past, showcasing a wealth of iconic landmarks and historical sites that have stood the test of time.

The tour highlights several must-see destinations, including:

  1. Lynchs Castle, the oldest mansion in Galway, now repurposed as an AIB bank.

  2. The over 700-year-old St. Nicholas Collegiate Church, which was used as a stable by Cromwell’s soldiers.

  3. The Hall of the Red Earl, an archaeological site with remnants of medieval structures.

These captivating locations provide a window into Galway’s rich medieval heritage, allowing travelers to enjoy the city’s fascinating history and gain a deeper appreciation for its enduring landmarks.

Frequently Asked Questions

Galway: Medieval Walking Tour - Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Dog on the Tour?

Unfortunately, dogs are not permitted on the tour. The tour is designed for walking and exploring historical sites, and the presence of pets could disrupt the experience for other participants. Guests are advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets.

Is Food and Drink Provided During the Tour?

No, food and drink are not included during the tour. Participants are advised to bring their own water and snacks as needed. The tour focuses on exploring the medieval sites and history of the city rather than providing catering.

How Long Does It Take to Walk the Entire Tour?

The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours. According to the overview, the duration of the guided walking tour is 1.5 hours, during which visitors explore Galway’s medieval sites and learn about the city’s rich history from a local guide.

Is There an Option to Do a Private Tour?

Yes, there is an option to book a private tour. Customers can inquire about private tours and request a customized experience with a personal guide. Private tours may offer more flexibility in duration and itinerary compared to the standard group tour.

Can I Take a Break During the Tour?

During the tour, guests can take breaks as needed. The walking pace is moderate, and the guide will accommodate any requests to pause or rest along the way. Taking breaks is allowed and can enhance the overall enjoyment of the experience.

Recap

This captivating 1.5-hour walking tour offers a unique opportunity to learn about Galway’s rich medieval history.

Guided by a local expert, you’ll explore iconic landmarks, uncover the stories of the influential 14 Tribes of Galway, and gain insights into the city’s architectural marvels.

At an affordable price starting at $22.22 per person, it’s a must-do experience for anyone seeking to explore Galway’s captivating past.

You can check if your dates are available here: