HerGalway Walking Tour

Exploring Galway isn’t just about its lively streets or scenic vistas; it’s also about uncovering the stories of women who made their mark in ways you won’t find in typical guidebooks. The HerGalway Walking Tour offers an engaging hour and a half journey into some of Galway’s most compelling female stories, guided by Marteen Lane, an Irish-approved expert with a passion for cultural heritage.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s a chance to hear about figures like Nora Barnacle, James Joyce’s wife, and Lady Gregory, a co-founder of the Abbey Theatre, whose contributions often go unrecognized. Second, the tour’s intimate size—no more than 15 travelers—creates a friendly, engaging atmosphere where questions are encouraged.

One thing to keep in mind is the weather—this tour runs rain or shine unless a severe weather warning is issued, so come prepared. It’s a perfect match for travelers who enjoy stories off the beaten track and are interested in Ireland’s often overlooked women’s histories. If you’re curious to see Galway through a new lens, this tour offers a meaningful, locally rooted experience.

Key Points

• Authentic stories: Focuses on remarkable women connected to Galway, many of whom have stories you won’t find in standard guides.
• Concise yet comprehensive: The 1 hour 30-minute to 1 hour 45-minute walk offers a well-rounded glimpse into women’s contributions.
• Affordable: At around $23.15 per person, the tour provides good value for a thoughtfully curated history experience.
• Weather-ready: Operates rain or shine—dress accordingly for all weather conditions.
• Small group: Max of 15 travelers ensures personalized attention and an engaging atmosphere.
• Booking in advance: Essential, with bookings generally made 28 days ahead, so plan ahead to secure your spot.

A Deep Dive Into Galway’s Female Legends

When we think about Irish history, it’s easy to focus on battles, castles, and political upheavals. But this tour takes a different route, shining a spotlight on women who shaped Galway in quieter, yet equally impactful ways. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to reveal both personal stories and broader social changes, connecting you with Galway’s past in a fresh, accessible way.

Meeting Point and Initial Impressions

The tour begins at the Browne Doorway in Eyre Square, a central and recognizable spot in Galway. As you gather, Marteen Lane’s friendly demeanor sets a welcoming tone. His expertise and enthusiasm immediately make you feel at ease, ready to listen and learn. The small size of the group ensures everyone can ask questions and share insights, creating a lively, intimate atmosphere.

The First Stop: The Magdalen Women Memorial

Our journey kicks off with a visit to the Final Journey Statue on Forster Street, memorializing women who suffered in the Magdalen Laundries. This poignant site leads into Lily McAllister’s story—a woman who endured the harsh realities of institutional life. Hearing about her experience isn’t just about individual hardship; it’s about understanding a chapter of Irish social history that remained hidden for decades.

One reviewer described this as “a fascinating tour,” noting the emotional impact of learning about these women’s stories. The memorial’s quiet dignity invites reflection, setting the tone for a tour that’s as respectful as it is revealing.

William Street and Úna Taaffe

Next, we visit the site of Taaffe’s woollen shop on William Street, where you’ll learn about Úna Taaffe, a Galway socialite and entrepreneur. Her story highlights how women in Galway took active roles in business and community life, challenging stereotypes of the time. The site’s historical significance combined with local stories makes this stop both educational and inspiring.

Newtownsmith and Alice Perry

At Newtownsmith, the focus shifts to Alice Perry, a trailblazing engineer and the first woman in Ireland and Britain to earn an engineering degree in 1906. The story of her pioneering spirit is a reminder of how women have historically broken barriers in STEM fields, often against great odds. While the actual site of the Galway Electric Light Company isn’t a museum, it’s a visual cue to her groundbreaking achievements.

Nora Barnacle House Museum

A personal highlight is the visit to the Nora Barnacle House Museum. Known as James Joyce’s wife and muse, Nora’s life story is quietly extraordinary. You’ll learn how she met Joyce and her role in his literary universe—an inspiring story of partnership and resilience. The museum, open during summer, charges a modest donation, making it accessible and intimate—perfect for those interested in literary history.

Galway Arts Centre and Lady Gregory

The tour then passes by the Galway Arts Centre, former home of the Persse family, including Lady Augusta Gregory. As a playwright and co-founder of the Abbey Theatre, Lady Gregory played an essential role in Ireland’s Literary Revival. Walking past her former home offers a tangible connection to Ireland’s cultural rebirth and the women behind it.

Galway City Museum and Peg Broderick Nicholson

At the Galway City Museum, we learn about Peg Broderick Nicholson’s resistance activities during the War of Independence. A bottle cap from a petrol bottle used to set her house ablaze is displayed—an unflinching reminder of the sacrifices made by Galway women in Ireland’s fight for independence.

Galway Docks and Kathleen Curran

Finally, on the docks, the story of Kathleen Curran emerges. She worked for the Galway Harbour Commissioners and served as an acting harbor master in the early 1950s. Her story emphasizes women’s roles in sectors traditionally dominated by men, showing how Galway women contributed to the city’s infrastructure and economy.

The Experience: What You Can Expect

Throughout the tour, you’ll find that Marteen Lane combines storytelling with historical context, making complex stories accessible and engaging. You’ll walk through Galway’s streets, stopping at significant sites with interpretive commentary that blends local lore and history.

The stops are intentionally brief but meaningful. Each one offers insights into individual women’s lives—some celebrated, others forgotten—and how they contributed to shaping Galway’s identity. The tour’s pace allows you to absorb the stories without feeling rushed, and the small group size means it feels more like a conversation than a lecture.

Practical Considerations

• Price & Value: At just over $23, this tour is a cost-effective way to deepen your understanding of Galway’s diverse history. It’s especially valuable for those interested in social history, women’s studies, or Irish culture.
• Weather: The tour runs rain or shine. Dressing in layers and bringing a raincoat is advised, especially during Ireland’s unpredictable weather. The tour will be canceled only in severe weather, with options for rescheduling or refunds.
• Duration: Lasts about 1.5 hours, making it a manageable addition to your travel day without feeling like a marathon.
• Booking: Advance booking is essential, ideally 28 days ahead, to secure your spot, especially during peak travel seasons.

Authenticity & Engagement

Participants consistently praise the guide, Marteen Lane, for his knowledge, approachable style, and ability to tell stories that stick with you. One reviewer called him an “excellent guide,” highlighting how he brought the women’s stories to life.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour?

This tour is perfect for travelers who crave a deeper understanding of Galway beyond its tourist sights. If you’re interested in women’s history, social change, or Irish culture, you’ll find this tour both enlightening and inspiring. It’s also ideal for those who prefer smaller groups and personalized storytelling over large, cookie-cutter tours.

While it’s suitable for most travelers, those expecting a fast-paced sightseeing bus might find this more reflective and educational, but for curious minds and history buffs, it offers genuine value.

The Sum Up

The HerGalway Walking Tour offers a rare glimpse into the lives of Galway’s remarkable women, from social entrepreneurs to resistance fighters. Its focus on stories that often go untold makes it a meaningful addition to any Galway itinerary. For the price, you’re getting an intimate, well-informed experience that combines history, culture, and personal stories into a compelling narrative.

Ideal for history enthusiasts, literary fans, or anyone interested in Irish society’s quieter heroes, this tour makes the past accessible, relatable, and memorable. If you’re in Galway and want an authentic, insightful look at some of Ireland’s women who made a difference, this walk is well worth your time.

FAQ

How long does the HerGalway Walking Tour last?
The tour takes approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, making it a manageable and enriching addition to your day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at the Browne Doorway in Eyre Square and concludes at the Spanish Arch, both central Galway locations.

Is booking in advance necessary?
Yes, advanced booking is essential, usually at least 28 days ahead, due to limited group size and high demand.

What should I wear?
Since the tour runs in all weather unless there’s a severe warning, it’s best to dress in layers and bring rain gear just in case.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, and the stories are engaging for a wide audience. However, very young children might find the pace and content less suitable.

How much does the tour cost?
The price is $23.15 per person, providing good value for an educational experience focused on women’s stories.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
While specific details aren’t provided, the tour involves walking through Galway’s streets, so comfortable footwear and some mobility are recommended.