Travel Archives | Lisa Regan PR

World’s Largest Galway Hooker donated back to Galway City and County

July 22, 2024

Vessel to be used as floating arts space and for sail training

Bádóirí an Chladaigh, the classic boat-building and training group, has announced the official donation and transfer of the Naomh Bairbre, the world’s largest Galway hooker, back to Galway County. The handover ceremony took place in the Claddagh Basin on Saturday, July 20, 2024, attended by the new city mayor, Fianna Fáil councillor Peter Keane, alongside notable community figures (pictured).

The Naomh Bairbre’s new role as a sail training vessel and a floating arts space promises to enrich Galway’s maritime and cultural heritage, offering a unique platform for both seasoned sailors and budding artists.

When Connemara carpenter Steve Mulkerrins declared his intention to build and sail a Galway hooker from Chicago to his homeland, it seemed an ambitious dream. Remarkably, not only did he accomplish this feat, constructing the largest Galway hooker ever in his shed with the help of many supporters, but he also sailed it through the Great Lakes and across the Atlantic in 2006. Today, he donated this magnificent vessel to serve as a sail training platform and a floating arts space in Galway City.

“At 47 feet (14 meters) long and with a 47-foot-high mast, the Naomh Bairbre is a striking presence in the Claddagh Basin,” said Peter Connolly of Bádóirí an Chladaigh. “We are delighted with Steve’s gesture, and we plan to ensure it becomes a municipal floating arts space for artists and musicians who can use it when it is not out sailing. Given Galway’s relative lack of artistic venues, this opportunity may prove invaluable for young artists.”

Mulkerrins, originally from Maumeen, Co Galway, expressed his desire for the Naomh Bairbre to remain in Galway, emphasising its heritage as a Galway hooker. “I want it to stay now in Galway, as it is called a Galway hooker for a reason, and it will be a great boat for sailing training and day trips in the bay, and for artists in the winter.”

He embarked on this project while living and working in Chicago for 12 years, and in Boston before that. With the support of his wife Agnes and their three children, he imported wood from Wicklow in two 12-meter containers and invested a significant amount of his own money into the construction. The project saw contributions from various individuals, including balladeer John Flaherty.

The inspiration behind the ambitious journey was to honour the memory of his late father, Colm. The 3,200 km navigation from Chicago to the Hudson River marked the beginning of a meticulously planned voyage home. Naomh Bairbre traversed the Great Lakes, ventured to Newfoundland, returned south to New York, and finally made the Atlantic crossing in 2006. The journey culminated after 28 days at sea, with a triumphant arrival past the Aran Islands and into the quay at Maumeen, accompanied by his shipmates Pat and Tom Joyce, Coley Newell, and Barney Flaherty.

Reflecting on the journey with Lorna Siggins in the Irish Independent, Mr Mulkerrins remarked, “Hard to believe it was 18 years ago that we sailed into Connemara. It is a great sea boat, and I know Peter Connolly and his crew will look after it well.”

Stay connected at www.facebook.com/galwayhookers.

testimonial

Blas na Bealtaine – May festival of food A Taste of Galway 2024

July 11, 2024

We were absolutely delighted with the PR services provided by Lisa Regan for Blas na Bealtaine.

From the very start her expertise and dedication were evident. She took the time to understand our needs and crafted a strategy that perfectly captured the essence of our food festival. Her local knowledge and connections were invaluable, which significantly raised the profile of our launch event at ‘The Kings Head’ in May.

Lisa’s ability to pitch our story to the right media outlets made a real difference to our visibility. We were delighted with both local and national traditional media coverage, and we saw a substantial increase in meaningful social media engagement throughout the campaign.

In addition to her professionalism and expertise, what truly set Lisa apart was her personal touch and dedication. She was always available, approachable, and willing to go the extra mile. She has also generously offered continued support and advice since the campaign finished!

In summary, Lisa’s professionalism, coupled with her warm and friendly demeanour, made her an absolute joy to work with. We cannot recommend her highly enough to anyone looking for top-notch PR services. She truly is a real gem in the Irish PR landscape!

Blas na Gaillimhe Team.

Featured In the Media Love

Galway Races Summer Vibes – Where the city meets the track for a week of unbeatable fun!

July 5, 2024

Race week 24 kicks off in style with a full city centre entertainment program

Galway City is set to come alive with a full free entertainment program as the Galway Summer Vibes campaign kicks off on Monday, July 29th, running through Wednesday, July 31st. This campaign aims to kick start the race week festival in the city centre before and after the main business of the day, the racing! From Monday free live entertainment, fashion showcases, and a variety of family-friendly activities will be happening throughout the city.

Eyre Square, the Latin Quarter, and Galway’s westend will transform into hubs of activity, buzzing with live performances from local bands, traditional music sessions, and acoustic sets. Each evening from 8pm, the city’s neighbourhoods will resonate with the sounds of summer, offering a perfect backdrop for the festive atmosphere.

Fashion enthusiasts can look forward to pop-up fashion showcases (From 12noon to 3pm) on Monday and Tuesday, hosted by the fashion entrepreneur and stylist Mandy Maher. These on street showcases will highlight the latest trends and styles as racegoers prepare to bring their fashion A-game to Galway. Mandy will shine a spotlight on local Galway retail outlets, encouraging attendees to shop locally and support the city’s boutiques, jewellers, footwear stores, and talented milliners. These will take place in Eyre Square, Cross Street and on the Spanish Arch.

Galway is a city that knows how to entertain, and this year’s race week is no exception. Families can explore award-winning restaurants, enjoy drinks in some of the best pubs in Ireland, and partake in the city’s renowned craic. To make the experience even more convenient, Bus Éireann shuttle buses will provide easy transportation, dropping racegoers in the heart of the city and directly at the Ballybrit racecourse.

Galway’s reputation for exceptional food and drinks will be on full display, with Diageo partnering with local public houses to ensure every pub offers a top-tier experience. Galways award winning restaurants are ready to welcome you for a pre-race lunch to talk through the plan and then back into the city to enjoy innovative culinary creations whilst you chat through the fun of the day.

Speaking at the launch of Galway Summer Vibes Johnny Duggan, Galway City VFI commented “It is another great initiative where the various City Centre areas come together to let people know that the City Centre is open for business and with plenty to see and do, whether you are a Race goer or not. There is such a great array of pubs in Galway, all within walking distance, with lots on across the city in all areas.”

“The Ballybrit Summer Racing Festival brings a huge number of visitors to Galway each year so Fáilte Ireland is really pleased to support the Summer Vibes festival which will help showcase the best that Galway city has to offer. Festivals and events play a key role in helping visitors immerse themselves in a destination’s unique offering. Fáilte Ireland has worked closely with Galway’s business community to help develop an exciting programme of free events that will bring Galway’s streets to life with the city’s renowned arts, culture, and creativity,” said Margaret Jenkins, Fáilte Ireland.

This race week, Galway is undeniably the place to be. Embrace the #GalwaySummerVibes and stay connected through social media accounts: Galway Races Official, Galway’s westend, The Latin Quarter, and Eyre Square Galway. Plan your Galway Races fun and immerse yourself in all the free, exciting activities the city has to offer.

Featured In the Media Love

East Meets West at Thai Garden Galway as they celebrate 25th year in business

July 3, 2024

Bringing the best of Thailand food culture to Galway City

Thai Garden Galway is celebrating its 25th anniversary with Galway, marking a quarter-century of bringing the vibrant flavours of Thailand to the west of Ireland. On Thursday, June 27, they hosted a full day of celebrations with traditional Thai Dancing, food demos and their signature cocktails.

Located at the Spanish Arch, Thai Garden has undergone an extensive renovation, transforming its entire space. The newly revamped restaurant now has terraced views of the River Corrib, which provides the perfect backdrop for summer cocktails and an unparalleled authentic Thai dining experience.

Since 1999, Thai Garden has been a cornerstone of Galway’s culinary scene, being one of the first Asian restaurants in the region. The establishment’s success can be attributed not only to its food offering but also to its dedicated team. Many staff members have been with Thai Garden since day one, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to customer satisfaction.

“We are incredibly proud of our journey over the past 25 years,” said Won, General Manager of Thai Garden Galway. “Our team, many of whom have been with us since the beginning, are the heart and soul of our restaurant. Their dedication and passion for authentic Thai cuisine have made Thai Garden a Galway institution.”

The highly skilled kitchen team, all originally from Thailand, bring their rich culinary heritage to every dish, ensuring an authentic dining experience. The serving staff’s goal is to make every visit enjoyable, reflecting the warm hospitality that Thai Garden is known for.

Pop into Thai Garden on Spanish Arch or check out www.thaigardengalway.ie. Get social across Facebook and Instagram or call 091-567 865.

Featured In the Media Love

Kaleidos transforming wooden canvases into dynamic works of art

July 1, 2024

Kaleidos- Emer Whelan art launches new collectionTransforming wooden canvases into dynamic works of art

Emer Whelan, the creative force behind Emer Whelan Art is launching her summer collection ‘Kaleidos’ which marries a lakeside tranquillity with urban vibrancy. At the heart of Emer’s artistic expression lies her innovative use of lasers, transforming wooden canvases into dynamic works of art. The collection of 15 pieces will be launched at The West End Art Collective in Galways westend on 13^th July at 6pm.

Originally from Cahir Pier on Lough Mask but now calling Galway City home, Emer infuses her surroundings into her art, capturing the essence of the lake and the energy of the urban.

Each piece exudes energy and vitality, reflecting Emer’s vision and passion for exploring the boundaries of traditional mediums. With Emer Whelan designs, you embark on a journey where colours dance on wood, breathing life into spaces and lighting the imagination. From her studio in Galway, Emer continues to push the boundaries inviting us to experience the beauty and vibrancy of her creations.

Pieces start from €375 and are available to view on www.emerwhelanart.com

Featured In the Media Love

The Raines to play lunchtime gig at The Kings Head

June 7, 2024

Galway band pop up gig to kick off summer tour

Folk/Americana trio,The Raines will play an intimate lunchtime show in the pocket-sized venue on the top floor of The Kings Head on Saturday June 29^th.

The Raines use their collective experience and influences to create a unique and pure sound, writing strong and melodic songs, in which they weave in and out of vocal harmony and counter-melody, interlaced with tender and rhythmic strings.

The Kings Head hosts free live music sessions everyday at 5pm. These summer drop in sessions celebrate the best of Irish Trad music, rock and a little bit of everything in between.

The gig starts at 1pm. Tickets, €15 are limited and are available from www.theraines.ie.

For more information check out www.thekingshead.ie.

Featured In the Media Love

Case Study: Enhancing accessibility in Galway’s westend

May 15, 2024

Galway’s westend sought to improve accessibility to ensure inclusivity and equal access for everyone. With the support of grant funding from Galway City Council, the community embarked on a project aimed at enhancing accessibility through various initiatives, including the procurement of accessibility ramps, installation of a public defibrillator unit, provision of handrails for additional support, and the creation of inclusive signage. This case study delves into the success and impact of these endeavours.

Objective:

The primary objective of the project was to create a more accessible environment within Galway’s westend, thereby fostering inclusivity and enhancing the quality of life for individuals with disabilities or mobility challenges. The project aimed to achieve this by addressing key barriers to accessibility and promoting awareness of available amenities and facilities.

Initiatives implemented:

Procurement of accessibility ramps:

The grant money facilitated the purchase of additional accessibility ramps to be strategically placed in key locations throughout Galway’s westend. These ramps were designed to provide wheelchair users, individuals with mobility aids, and those with strollers or heavy luggage easier access to buildings and public spaces. By increasing the availability of ramps, the project aimed to remove physical barriers and promote independent mobility.

Installation of a public defibrillator unit:

Recognising the importance of emergency preparedness, a public defibrillator unit was installed in a central location on the canal.

Provision of handrails for additional support:

In collaboration with local businesses, handrails were installed to provide additional support for individuals with mobility impairments. These handrails were strategically positioned in areas where steps or uneven surfaces posed challenges to accessibility. By enhancing stability and support, these handrails promote confidence and independence among individuals with varying mobility needs.

Creation of inclusive signage:

To raise awareness and improve navigation for individuals seeking accessible facilities, inclusive signage was designed and implemented across the westend. These creatively crafted stickers designed by local artist Paul James Kearney , in harmony with the area’s aesthetic, indicate the presence of accessibility ramps within buildings. By incorporating visually appealing design elements, the signage not only serves a functional purpose but also adds a touch of creativity to the urban landscape.

Through strategic planning and collaboration, the grant-funded initiatives have significantly enhanced accessibility within Galway’s westend, making it a more inclusive and welcoming community for all. By addressing physical barriers, promoting awareness, and creatively integrating accessibility features, the project exemplifies the positive impact of community-driven initiatives supported by local authorities.

Galway’s westend serves as a model for other communities striving to create environments that are accessible, safe, and inclusive for everyone.

Featured In the Media Love

Summer of art at Ard Bia

May 9, 2024

Appreciation of light and all its textures focus of photography showcase

This June, Ard Bia will host Aoibheann MacNamara’s second photographic exhibition titled Dunganese- which is a coastal desert region in the south of England. This exhibition has a fixation on features in the natural landscape that gives context of time and location.

As an artist of photography, she works in automatic and lets the light largely dictate the work. This is by design and by its nature largely more bleached out like the barren landscape depicted throughout the pieces.

Long since mentioned in murmurs of elusiveness, Dungenese has often been the preserve of artists and writers – most notably the great Derek Jarmon.

His tar-washed yellow windowed hut of iconic standing is the big draw but from there, a bigger aesthetic story evolves. Nuclear power stations, fish huts, lighthouses, colourful fishing debris, signal stations and much more presents a set design for escapist theatre in the shape of time spent there and of time removed.

This body of work, created over several early morning windswept walks while staying at the fog signal house in March 2024, pays homage to the beauty of a place that is like a moonscape with the most evocative structures within that scape.

“The muted colours of the images are untouched and left in their bleached-out state in a nod to analogue film we could not change once shot,” explained Aoibheann.

For more information call into Ard Bia on the Spanish Arch. The summer exhibition series will continue in July with painter Jose M. Yagüe Manzanares who through his painting of photography displays a love letter through his craft to Ireland.

Featured In the Media Love

Blas na Bealtaine – May festival of food kicks off in Galway

April 29, 2024

A celebration of food and experience in Galway

Blas Na Gaillimhe – (A Taste of Galway) food network & festival that celebrates Galway’s unique year-round hospitality is kickstarting a month of deliciousness in May. Blas na Bealtaine will celebrate people and food from across the globe but right here in the west. Through festivals, events, and collaborations, A Taste of Galway celebrates the diversity, creativity, and passion that define Galway’s food culture.

The festival has a diverse lineup of workshops, talks, and events designed to introduce and ignite people’s passion for what is here on our doorstep. From traditional feasts to innovative wine explorations, there is something for every palate and every curiosity.

Enjoy the flavours of Brazil but in Salthill, one of the highlights of the festival is the Feijoada weekend at Chef Laura Rosso. Prepare to indulge in the rich flavours of Brazil with a slow-cooked pork and black beans stew, served with all the traditional accompaniments. Meanwhile, in Galway’s westend on Dominick Street, Aniar celebrates Blas na Bealtaine & Oysters from the west coast of Ireland with a pop-up oyster bar. Expect an array of Irish oysters, delicately accompanied by wild, foraged, and preserved garnishes. As a result of the abundant plankton the west coast provides ideal oyster growing conditions. Daróg Wine Bar are focusing on Fíon (wine in Irish), where you will go on an exploration into the world of wines.

A celebration of food and experience in Galway Blas Na Gaillimhe (A Taste of Galway) food network & festival that celebrates Galway’s unique year-round hospitality is kickstarting a month of deliciousness in May. Blas na Bealtaine will celebrate people and food from across the globe but right here in the west. The festival has a diverse lineup of workshops, talks, and events designed to introduce and ignite peoples passion for what is here on our doorstep. For all information visit https://atasteofgalway.com/events/ . Pictured at the official launch in The Kings Head were Mirko Testa and Gabi Juillet, both from IL Vicolo restaurant. Blas na Bealtaine May festival of food kicks off in Galway. Photo:Andrew Downes, xposure

For those eager to roll up their sleeves and get hands-on, Jess Murphy and Pasta Tony are joining forces to teach the art of pasta making, accompanied by Italian salads and fine wines in Massimo Bar. And for the curious souls craving a deeper understanding of Irish cuisine, Galway Food Tours and Fable Tours offer immersive experiences that delve into the heart of Ireland’s culinary heritage. There will be a taste of Galway cheese & wine at Sheridans Cheesemongers, where you will be tasting through some of Galway’s finest cheeses including Galway Sinan, Killeen goat cheese and Kylmora alpine style cheese. Each of the Galway cheeses will be carefully paired with a selection of European wines, Irish cider and accompaniments.

Join POTA Café, in Baile na hAbhann to go on a culinary and cultural journey from Connemara through Loch Lurgan (the ancient name for Galway Bay) to the Aran Islands and back. Loch Lurgan, an evening of Food and Folklore will have you feasting on a 7-course tasting menu interspersed with the history and mythology of Loch Lurgan. Then it is onto Trieste Café & Wine Bar for a celebration of Bubbles, Rosé & Light Reds. Tasting all the ideal Wines for the perfect summer evening. Think Cava, French Rosé, Vinho Verde & Pinot Noir (and lots more!) Paired with Charcuterie and cheese from Colm Jordan from the iconic Galway Saturday Market.

Cava Bodega welcomes Javier Murúa of Bodegas Muriel for an evening of talks, tapas, and wine, while Garavans hosts an award-winning Micil Tasting that explores the rich distilling traditions of Galway. At neighbourhood favourite Tom Sheridans will host Bia Bites: A celebration of local produce, with a wine pairing. And for those seeking a truly unique dining experience, Aniar presents the Chef Swap series, where guest chefs collaborate to create once-in-a-lifetime menus.

Founder, Jp McMahon is passionate about the network, he believes Blas na Gaillimhe is a wonderful opportunity for the Galway restaurants and producers to showcase the best of what they do. “The network is focused on developing strong relationships and a vibrant food community in Galway thus benefiting people working in the industry and the diners. “

Get into Galway throughout May to celebrate the vibrant spirit of this internationally acclaimed food scene at Blas na Bealtaine. For more information and bookings, visit https://atasteofgalway.com/events/ or get social across Facebook and Instagram.

Featured In the Media Love

Celebrating 35 years of The Kings Head: A morning of reflection, generosity, and hope

April 3, 2024

This Friday, April 5th, marks a significant milestone for The Kings Head, Galway, as they celebrate 35 years of serving the community with warmth, hospitality, and dedication. To mark this special occasion, the Grealish family, proprietors of The Kings Head, cordially invite the public to join them for a morning of coffee and cake starting at 11:30am.

In the spirit of giving back, the Grealish family has chosen to mark their 35th anniversary by making a generous donation to the Galway Rape Crisis Centre. This commendable act aligns perfectly with the ongoing efforts of the Galway Rape Crisis Centre, which has recently launched a fundraiser under the banner ‘WIN100GRAND.IE’. The fundraiser aims to secure €100,000 to support the development of a new, state-of-the-art building to serve as the home of the Galway Rape Crisis Centre in the Claddagh, Galway.

For over four decades, the Galway Rape Crisis Centre has been a beacon of support for survivors of sexual violence, offering vital services such as free support, advocacy, and empowerment. Their unwavering commitment to breaking the cycle of silence and stigma surrounding sexual violence has made them an invaluable resource for survivors across Galway City and County, as well as in Roscommon and North Clare.

“We are really excited about this draw. It is an incredible prize and as they say it could be you. We are building for the future. Our new home in the heart of Galway is a symbol of hope and resilience for our entire community. By investing in our €100,000 cash draw, you are not just contributing to a building project; you are investing in the future of survivors and the broader community. Your support will enable us to expand our reach, enhance our services, and continue our vital work in raising awareness through education,” said Cathy Connolly, Executive Director, Galway Rape Crisis Centre.

Tickets for the ‘WIN100GRAND.IE’ draw are priced at €50 each or 3 for €100 and are available for purchase now at win100grand.ie.

Stay connected with The Kings Head across social media platforms and on their new website www.thekingshead.ie.

Featured In the Media Love

Welcome to the neighbourhood- Galway Food Tours launches a true Galway buzz tour

March 27, 2024

Ramble through Galway’s neighbourhoods to experience life like a local

To get to experience Galway as a local you must cross into all the neighbourhoods. Experience the coffee, the beers, a gig, theatre, the street art, a burger, the best pizza in Ireland (fact), fish and chips, dessert, and of course the people. With all this in mind the award-winning Galway Food Tours has launched their neighbourhood walking tours through the city of the tribes.

Taking in the historic charm of Woodquay, the bustling city centre streets and Eyre Square, through the Latin Quarter, onto Galways westend and then out to Salthill, the Galway neighbourhood ramble tour will introduce little nuggets of social and cultural notes as well as enjoying a refreshment or two along the way.

From Woodquay to Salthill, every step promises a new and different discovery of people, food, and stories. Get ready to go on a new adventure as Galway Food Tours introduces its brand-new neighbourhood walking tour that dives into the heart of Galway’s unique city areas.

The city is surrounded by water with the River Corrib holding pride of place and quick fact- it’s the fastest flowing river in Europe, so the tour begins at the midpoint between the iconic Salmon Weir Bridge and the new pedestrian bridge. Here, the ramble begins into Woodquay where you will enjoy the river from another viewpoint at the Commercial Boat Club, pop in Hughes for a pint, an Oyster at Galways only Oyster Bar in McSwiggans or a quick flutter at the bookies next door, and who knows, you might just walk away with a smile and an extra fiver in your pocket!

Take a stroll up to enjoy Eyre Square, where the bustle of city life intertwines with the city’s famous park scape. New opening Mary Mullens is offering an Asian inspired outdoor oasis with Galway style Gyozas on offer- a must. The history of Galway can be seen on every corner but a pop into the 800-year-old Kings Head on High Street to learn even more about how the town became a city with the addition of a small matter of a beheading right at the door of a very famous King!

Crossing the bridges into Galway’s westend, this place moves to a different beat than the rest of the city, which keeps high street chains at bay and allows independent boutique businesses to flourish. Many businesses have been here for generations and supply the needs of the bountiful restaurants and bars that have won awards around the world and stamped the area on the food map even if you will not always find it on a tourist map.

Speciality tea and coffee cafes with hidden sun traps and vintage clothing shops have recently changed the day time vibe but no day is complete without a trip to Galways oldest grocery store to see Ernie or a drink in the Small Crane which used to be a potato market.

Heading out to Salthill for some fresh sea air, it’s time for a coffee in Kali or a small nip of something stronger at Tribe Gin school followed by a trip to the slots or the casino at the iconic Seapoint.

“Galway has so much to offer but when we travel, we are easily just drawn to main attractions. Really though we want to know where the locals are and what it is that makes a place special- so the neighbourhood tour of Galway is just that. Every person coming to the city can then get a real slice of Galway life. We love all the people and stories as well as unique Galway offerings so we want to show and share these with as many people as possible,” explained Sheena Dignam of Galway Food Tours.

Tours run throughout the day from 11am and are priced at €30. Book now at www.galwayfoodtours.com .

Featured In the Media Love

Galway’s Westend kicks off 2024 sustainable tourism campaign

March 27, 2024

Walking Tours: Unveiling a journey through Galway’s vibrant cultural hub

Galway’s Westend, the beating heart of Galway City known for its captivating culture, is kicking off their sustainable tourism campaign on foot with their neighbourhood walking tours.

After their inaugural walking tour program which launched in June 2023, the immersive tours are back allowing visitors and locals to delve into the rich tapestry of Galway’s Westend, revealing the hidden gems, unique stories, and vibrant atmosphere that make it a must-visit destination.

Galway’s westend is celebrated for its bohemian charm, artistic flair, and diverse community, making it a focal point of Galway’s cultural scene. Galway’s westend Walking Tours aim to showcase this captivating district, guiding participants through its picturesque streets, unveiling its historical landmarks, and providing an intimate glimpse into the thriving arts, food, and music scene that defines the area.

Led by expert local guides, each Galway’s westend Walking Tour will take participants on a journey of discovery, exploring the district’s rich history, captivating tales, and fascinating anecdotes. From traditional Irish music venues to independent boutiques, award-winning restaurants, and artisanal food markets, visitors will immerse themselves in the unique ambiance that defines Galway’s westend.

The tours will tell the tales of Irish-town (West End) versus the Norman/English town of Galway to being introduced to the home of Lady Gregory’s son, Major Robert Gregory, whose death in January 1918 inspired WB Yeats poem, ‘An Irish Airman foresees his death’. Where now lies The Galway Arts Centre, Galway’s only dedicated art gallery and Aras Na Gael – the Irish language experience with Dance, music, song, conversation, and a bar!

The tours will begin each day on Raven’s Terrace where the great Claddagh connection begins. Tour guides will touch on Pawnbroker, Fish on Friday, Claddagh ring, Claddagh fishing tradition and the Galway Hookers.

Then the connection to maritime history will be the focus of walks along The Eglinton Canal that lead to the University. Tour guides will draw on the Lock gates, bridges, tow-paths and how the Canals connect to Corrib with Water activities from past to present day.

As people step through the neighbourhood, they will be introduced to the socio-cultural fabric through food, people and place and of course nuggets of information like, did you know that the area is home to Galway’s only LGBTQIA+ Bar, Nova on Henry Street?

Back into The Small Crane where the History of the Galway markets, potato, hay, turf, vegetable, pigs, calves were held and now will be told. Right alongside here the stories of prolific Galway author Walter Macken and of Titanic survivor Eugene Daly from Raleigh Row will be highlighted to walkers.

The tours will be available three times daily, at 11am, 3pm and 6pm from Ravens Terrace. Participants will be treated to a captivating journey through the district, lasting approximately 75 minutes. Tickets, €20 + Booking fee can be purchased online through the official Galway’s Westend website or directly at the meeting point.

For more information about Galway’s westend Walking Tours, including ticketing details and the tour schedule, please visit www.galwayswestend.ie.

Join the conversation on social media using the hashtag #GalwaysWestendTours and stay up-to-date with the latest news and updates.

Older Posts