Galway Historic River Corrib Walking Tour

Discover Galway’s rich history and folklore on a unique River Corrib walking tour. Uncover the city’s secrets and the river’s significance.

Duration: 1 hour, 20 minutes
Cancellation: 1 day learn more
Highlights
  • The Spanish Arch - Starting at the historic Spanish Arch, named after Galway’s trade with Spain. Here, we will explore the history of the Claddagh, the old city port, the fish market, and the city’s foundation.
  • River Corrib - In this part of the tour, we will follow the trail between Wolftone Bridge and O’Brien’s Bridge. Our journey of discovery continues here as we see the Fisheries Tower, the River Corrib—the fastest flowing river in an urban setting—and the McDonnagh fertilizer mill.
  • River Corrib - In the second section of the River Corrib Walk, we will uncover the history of the city’s use of the river and how its power was harnessed for various mills, breweries, distilleries, and power stations along its course.
  • Salmon Weir Bridge - Spanning the river for over two centuries, the Salmon Weir Bridge has witnessed many significant events. It once connected the Gaol (Jail) to the courthouse and saw the harvesting of eels from the Sargasso Sea and beyond. The Salmon Weir Bridge has seen many things during its lifetime…if only it could talk.
  • Galway Cathedral - Built on the site of the city Gaol (Jail), Galway Cathedral is the youngest stone-built cathedral in Europe. Dominating the city’s skyline, the Cathedral is a beautiful example of Romanesque architecture and engineering and serves as an oasis of calm in a busy city.
  • Woodquay - Discover the site of the old potato market, where the River Corrib continues above the weir to the lough. If we’re lucky, we’ll see rowers from various rowing clubs on the river or preparing for training. Here, we can sit on the many benches, watch the world go by, and marvel at the scenery.
  • River Corrib - Finishing at Steamers Quay, we can see parts of the University and the old supports of the viaduct that once carried the Clifden to Galway Railway line. This is also where old steam boats traveled from Galway to the inner parts of Lough Corrib and the towns along its shoreline.
What's Included
  • Galway City Maps
  • A Failte Ireland Licenced and Qualified Guide
What's Not Included
  • Shopping opportunities.
  • Dining and drinking experiences after the tour.
  • Food and Drink.
  • Gratuities (optional).
Additional Information

Dedicated solely to the River Corrib and its history, this walking tour will take you on an adventure and journey of discovery like no other. One will gain an unique understanding of the importance of the river to the city of Galway and the history of the city itself. Come and experience the rich history and folklore of Galway form the banks of the River Corrib.

Location
Spanish Arch
The Long Walk
Our meeting place is the Spanish Arch on the banks of the River Corrib, it is here that we will begin our tour. The cover picture is of our meeting point in the photographs.
Cancellation Policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Select Date and Tickets
up to 15 guests
1 Adult
September 2024
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