Sitting on the banks of its namesake, the River Clare, the lovely Gaeltacht village of Claregalway contains an abundance of historical and natural attractions. Only a short 15 minute drive from the bustling Galway City, this picturesque area is really worth its weight in gold. Discover our favourite places to visit while in the Claregalway area and remember to add this lovely town to your Galway bucket list asap!
FOOD & DRINK
Peggy's Bar & Restuarant
Peggy’s Bar and Restaurant is a traditional Irish pub who extends a fabulous warm Irish welcome to everyone who wanders through their doors. A favourite spot of both tourists and locals alike, they are home of delicious drinks, homely food and great craic, it’s well worth the visit. On weekends, you can expect them to be a hive of activity with live music, all kinds of sport on the TVs, both inside the venue and in their stunning beer garden. Whether you’re there for a quiet drink or out for the night with friends there really is no better place to be!
Aucloggeen / more here
above: photo courtesy of Peggy's Bar and Restaurant
Roots Café & Bistro
One of the many Roots Café & Bistro dotted across Galway, if you haven’t already paid them a visit and treated yourself to their superb array of Italian inspired dishes then make sure to while you’re in Claregalway. Their gorgeous menu features barista coffees, refreshing smoothies, tasty takeaway lunches such as burgers, pizzas, salads, sandwiches and much more. They’ve also got a great selection of wines and beers, amazing coffee and delicious cocktails.
1 Cois Chláir / more here
Treat Café, Restuarant & Catering Group
Worth the trip out of the city alone, all of the fabulous food at Treat Café has been prepared, cooked and baked onsite. Whether you're after a bit of brekkie, lunch or dinner Treat has something for you. Offering some of Galway's best homemade pastries, specialty coffees and modern Irish bistro lunches. And if you're on the go, they also has a large selection of pre-prepared sandwiches and lunches solutions. This place is also a famously good option for catering so if you're hosting a party or event at home be sure to drop them a line.
The Courtyard, Claregalway Shopping Centre / more here
above: photo courtesy of Treat Café
Xian Street Food
It’s Galway city counterpart is the go to choice for many a city wanderer and with one visit you’ll understand why! Xian Street Food brings traditional and authentic Chinese food culture right to Galway and while you are out enjoying the sights of Claregalway be sure to pop in and try it for yourself. It's perfect for both takeaway or sit in. Known for packing flavour into every dish, we simply have to recommend the spice bag as it really is one of the best going.
Main St / more here
The Summerfield Bar
A night out in The Summerfield Bar is one you will never forget. This quirky bar is filled with cool classic and retro signs that gives the whole space a unique and welcoming vibe. Featuring live music every weekend, cocktails and drink specials, all the biggest sporting events live on the big screens, a stunning beer garden and so much more. It reopened after an extensive wait period in July 2022 with incredible new refurbishments and the bar is really looking better than ever.
Lakeview / more here
above: photo courtesy of The Summerfield Bar
DISCOVER
Claregalway Museum and Forge
Claregalway has a fascinating and rich history and heritage. To acquaint you with its past, the Claregalway museum should be on your agenda while in town. Follow a tour guide to discover about the charming village and its intriguing historical sites. The building itself is housed within a restored old Blacksmith which was open until the 1990’s.
Rooaunmore / more here
Claregalway Castle
The fully restored 15th century Claregalway Castle is open to the public for 6 months of the year and plays host to a number of events throughout the season, including the annual Galway Garden Festival. Located along the Clare River, the castle once had a 6 foot high defensive wall, imposing gate-house and moat. Over the centuries the castle has seen its fair share of historic moments including having the first Garda Siochána stationed at the castle for a short while. Nowadays its grounds plays host to a number of festival throughout the year including Strange Brew's Fall Right Into Place festival and the Galway Garden Festival.
Claregalway Village / more here
above: photo courtesy of Claregalway Castle
Claregalway Friary
This well-preserved friary was founded in 1250 by John de Cogan. In 2010/11 excavations on the site recovered items such as medieval green glazed imported pottery, fragments of floor tiles and worked bone pieces. This friary is also the burial site of the de Burgos family (Burkes), which is marked by a tomb niche by the friary’s north wall. Claregalway Friary has rich ties to the local area and is definitely worth visiting for yourself when you pass through the area.
Claregalway Village / more here
SHOP
GM Boutique
Specialising in fashionable and affordable women’s clothing, GM Boutique is your one stop shop in Claregalway for all your women's fashion and clothing needs. With a fabulous selection of styles and sizes, incredibly helpful staff and free parking to boot, there are plenty of reasons why GM Boutique should be on your radar.
Claregalway Village / more here
Zenith Hairdressing
This hairdressers is an award-winning L’Oreal Professional colour specialist salon and can honestly be described as specialists in all things concerning hair. They are constantly reviewing technologies and treatments available and pride themselves on making sure they offer the best products, advice, treatments and techniques from colour and cuts to home maintenance.
River Oaks Shopping Centre, Claregalway Village / more here
The Fancy Nest
When in a new town or village for the day, for us a bit of shopping is essential. At The Fancy Nest discover some gorgeous home gifts and accessories that make for lovely additions to your cosy home. Browsing the wares of their physical store is also a wonderful way to pass the evening. They stock loads of beautiful fashion accessories; jewellery, handbags, scarves, hats and gifts... not to mention their stunning seasonal decorations!
Unit 2, Hughes Shopping Centre, Lakeview / more here
above: photo courtesy of The Fancy Nest
STAY THE NIGHT
Claregalway Hotel
Claregalway Hotel sits at the doorstep of some of the most fantastic tourist destinations in the West. This multi-award winning hotel is renowned for its midweek breaks, lavish weddings, sports & leisure facilities and of course their bustling bar and restaurant. With weekly music sessions, the onsite Bia & Co Gastro Bar comes to life, offering high-end drinks and cocktails along with gorgeous dishes. To ensure all of their guest maximum comfort, all of their rooms have been designed with your comfort in mind. With soft duvets, fluffy pillows and crisp linen, you’re guaranteed to enjoy a relaxing and luxurious stay.
River Oaks, Claregalway Village / more here
The Arches Hotel
Owned and run by the Dunleavey family, The Arches Hotel is a perfect weekend getaway destination. Featuring 21 tastefully decorated bedrooms, they provide a warm and intimate environment provides visitors with an introduction to the local atmosphere, the area’s wholesome cuisine, great craic and the locale’s traditional night outs that are always loved by their guests. With a range of double, twin, triple, wheelchair accessible and family bedrooms, The Arches Hotel can cater for both corporate and leisure guests alike.
Claregalway Village / more here
above: photo courtesy of Claregalway Hotel
Feature photo captured by the incredibly talented @seanmcfoto courtesy of Claregalway Castle.
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