Galway: HerGalway Walking Tour

Exploring Galway is always a treat, but diving into the stories of the women who shaped the city adds a whole new dimension. The HerGalway Walking Tour offers a fascinating glimpse into the lives of women who made waves locally, nationally, and even internationally. Led by a guide certified by the Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland, this tour promises both education and entertainment wrapped into 90 minutes of strolling through Galway’s vibrant streets.

What we love about this experience is the blend of storytelling and site visits — you don’t just hear about these women, you see where they lived, worked, and fought for change. Plus, the guide’s depth of knowledge makes the stories come alive with context and personality. On the flip side, a possible consideration is that at $23 per person, it’s a modest investment for a short, guided walk, but for many, the quality of the stories will outweigh the cost. This tour is perfect for history buffs, those interested in women’s stories, or anyone wanting a meaningful way to connect with Galway beyond its pubs and music.

If you enjoy learning about real people behind the landmarks, this walk offers a meaningful and authentic perspective.

Key Points

• Expert Guides: Led by a qualified, Irish-approved tourist guide with over 11 years of experience.
• Authentic Stories: Focuses on women who shaped Galway’s history and culture, with engaging, well-researched narratives.
• Concise Duration: 1.5 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy Galway itinerary.
• Accessible & Practical: Wheelchair and stroller friendly, with clear meeting and ending points.
• Affordable Value: At $23, offers a cost-effective way to deepen your understanding of local history.
• Visit Iconic Sites: Stops include Nora Barnacle’s house, Galway City Museum, and the Final Journey Statue, blending history with local scenery.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Detailed Look at the Galway: HerGalway Walking Tour

This walking tour is designed to give visitors a focused, story-driven experience. It’s not about ticking off every sight in Galway but about understanding the women who influenced its narrative. The tour begins at the Browne Doorway in Eyre Square, a central and easy-to-find meeting point that signals the start of your journey into Galway’s past.

What’s Included and How It Works

The tour is led by a Fáilte Ireland regional guide, someone with over a decade of guiding experience and a BA in Heritage Studies. This means you’ll get polished storytelling grounded in authentic research. The tour costs just $23 per person, which covers the guide’s time and insights. Entry fees to attractions like Nora Barnacle’s house or Galway City Museum are extra, but donations or small fees (around 5 EUR each) keep the experience accessible.

You meet 15 minutes early, allowing for a relaxed start. The tour lasts around an hour and a half, and it’s wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a wide range of travelers. It ends back at the starting point in Eyre Square, so you can easily continue exploring Galway afterward.

The Route: From Bowling Green to Galway Harbour

As you stroll through the city, expect to visit several significant spots. Your guide highlights Nora Barnacle’s house, where she lived with James Joyce, Ireland’s literary giant. Even if you don’t go inside (admission fee applies), the house’s exterior and stories about Nora’s life add depth to your understanding of Galway’s literary connections.

You’ll see Taaffe’s wool shop, once run by Una Taaffe, a woman who contributed meaningfully to Galway’s business scene. Standing outside, your guide will share her story of entrepreneurship and resilience.

The Galway Electric Light Company points to Alice Perry’s groundbreaking achievement—she was the first woman to get an engineering degree in Ireland and Britain in 1906. Her story is an inspiring reminder of breaking barriers, and you’ll appreciate her contribution from the outside.

Highlights and Stories

One standout story revolves around Lily McAllister, who made headlines by escaping from the Magdalene Laundry in Galway, a topic that reveals the darker side of Irish history. The Final Journey Statue offers a powerful visual, and your guide will tell the story behind it, emphasizing the importance of remembering stories of struggle and resilience.

The Galway City Museum houses artefacts related to Peg Broderick Nicholson, a woman who fought for Irish independence. While the museum charges a small donation, the stories behind the exhibits are worth the visit.

Finally, the tour concludes at Galway Harbour, where your guide introduces Kathleen Curran, who served as the female harbour master temporarily—an impressive footnote in local maritime history.

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Authenticity and Engagement

Reviews speak highly of the guide’s knowledge and personable style. One traveler appreciated how “very well informed and always found a positive note even when the topic was difficult,” signaling that the stories are handled with care and honesty. Another noted, “Marteen was absolutely lovely and brilliant to chat to,” which highlights the personal touch that makes this tour memorable.

Value for Money

At only $23, the tour offers excellent value, especially considering the depth of storytelling and the quality of the guide. The inclusion of site visits, though brief, enriches the experience beyond a simple walking narration. Plus, it’s accessible and flexible, fitting neatly into most Galway days.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience appeals most to history enthusiasts, literature fans, and those curious about women’s roles in Irish and Galway history. If you want a glimpse into the lives of remarkable women who often go unmentioned elsewhere, this tour provides a respectful and engaging overview. It’s also suitable for families, provided children are interested in stories and history, and for visitors with mobility needs.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

The Galway: HerGalway Walking Tour delivers an authentic, well-researched portrait of influential women in Galway’s past. It’s a smart choice for travelers who value storytelling grounded in real sites and want an intimate, insider’s view into Galway’s social fabric. The knowledgeable guide, combined with the opportunity to see significant locations, makes this tour more than just a walk — it’s an exploration of the city’s hidden stories.

For anyone wanting to connect with Galway on a deeper level, this tour offers both insight and inspiration. It’s especially ideal for those interested in women’s history, Irish culture, or simply looking for a meaningful way to spend an afternoon. It may be brief, but the stories you’ll hear are lasting.

FAQs

How long is the Galway: HerGalway Walking Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Browne Doorway in Eyre Square and ends back there.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, it’s wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly.

What is the price of the tour?
It costs $23 per person, with optional additional fees for entry to certain sites.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, reservations are recommended to secure your spot and to check availability.

Are there any age restrictions?
The tour is suitable for most ages, but travel children should be interested in stories and history.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, an umbrella, camera, water, credit card, and weather-appropriate clothing.

Is there a guide available in other languages?
The tour is conducted in English only.

Can I cancel my reservation?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Are there any additional costs I should be aware of?
Yes, entry to Nora Barnacle’s house and Galway City Museum costs about 5 EUR each if you wish to visit inside.

If you’re after a meaningful, stories-rich walk through Galway that highlights the often-overlooked women behind the scenes, this tour hits the mark — practical, heartfelt, and full of authentic Irish charm.

You can check availability for your dates here: