Explore Medieval Galway with expert guide Marteen Lane. Discover historic remnants on a 2pm walking tour. Book now for an unforgettable journey through time.
- The Browne Doorway - The Browne Doorway is a standalone door in Eyre Square. Originally from a house on Lower Abbeygate Street, it belonged to Dominic Browne, a prominent merchant.
- Eyre Square Centre - Within Eyre Square Shopping Centre lie the remnants of the city walls. These walls, common in medieval towns, served as defensive structures. Visitors will learn about their significance to the people of Galway.
- Lynch’s Castle - Lynch’s Castle is believed to be the oldest mansion in Galway. Associated with the influential Lynch family, one of the 14 Tribes, it now houses an AIB bank and is the oldest commercial building in Ireland.
- The Lynch Memorial - Known as the City of the Tribes, Galway was controlled by 14 families during the medieval period. Discover the story of the Mayor of Galway, who executed his own son in the 1400s.
- Saint Nicholas’ Collegiate Church - St. Nicholas’ Collegiate Church has been central to Galway city for over 700 years. Learn about Jane Eyre, James Kearney, and how Cromwell’s soldiers used the church as stables. Entry to the church requires a fee, which supports its maintenance. Visitors can choose whether to enter.
- The King’s Head - The King’s Head pub is a beloved spot in Galway city, with historical ties to the execution of King Charles I of England.
- Thomas Dillon’s Claddagh Gold - Visit Thomas Dillon’s Jewellers on Quay Street, the original creators of the famous Claddagh ring since 1750. Discover the story behind this iconic ring.
- Hall of the Red Earl - The Hall of the Red Earl is a notable archaeological site managed by Galway Civic Trust. Unearthed in the late 1990s, visitors can see the foundations, walls, columns, and buttresses. Explore the site up close.
- Kirwan’s Lane - During the medieval period, Galway had 14 lanes and alleyways. Kirwan’s Lane, one of the five remaining lanes, is named after the Kirwan family, one of the 14 Tribes. Medieval remnants can still be found in the buildings along the lane.
- Quay Street - At the end of Quay Street stands Blake’s Castle, once owned by the Blake family, one of the 14 Tribes. The castle, which served as the county jail, offers insights into the lives of its prisoners. Restored in the 1980s, it had fallen into ruin.
- The Spanish Arch - The Spanish Arch is one of Galway’s most iconic landmarks. Built as an extension of the city walls, it protected the boats in the harbor. Learn about the Claddagh across the river and the tsunami that destroyed two of the arches.
- Guide with 11+ years of experience
- BA (Hons) in Heritage Studies
- Fáilte Ireland Regional Guide
- Entrance fee into St. Nicholas’ Church.
Medieval Galway Tour offers an immersive journey back to medieval Galway, where visitors can still witness the remnants of that historical era.
Join a walking tour of Medieval Galway with Marteen Lane, an experienced local guide and member of the Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland.
The tour begins at 2pm Irish Time, meeting at the Browne Doorway in Eyre Square. Advance booking is essential.
Please be aware that the tour operates in all weather conditions, except in the case of a severe weather warning. Dress appropriately. If a severe weather warning is issued, the tour will be canceled for the safety of the group, and an alternative date or a full refund will be provided.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
