If you’re looking for a day trip from Galway that’s easy to get to and super enjoyable, then a visit to West of the River Gallery in Athenry might be exactly what you didn’t know you needed. Read all about our visit to West of the River Gallery here..
Getting there is part of the charm, mostly because it’s so straightforward. From Galway city, you’re out in what feels like no time at all, around 15 minutes, give or take. If anything, it’s quicker than travelling across the city (especially if you’re heading out toward Renmore during rush hour). So if Athenry has ever sounded like a bit of a trek, it’s honestly not. It’s surprisingly one of those “why don’t I come here more often?” kind of places.
Inside West of the River Gallery’s light blue exterior, you’re met with a warm, welcoming café area that makes you instantly feel settled. There’s a buzz about the space too with people chatting, catching up, sitting with a coffee and no rush to be anywhere else. Nearby there are shelves with thoughtful bits and pieces, such as cards, prints and small gifts. The kind of things you pick up for someone else… and then end up getting one for yourself too and why wouldn’t you? The selection feels very considered, without being overwhelming.
As you wander in a bit further, you move into an area dedicated to art. It’s open and calm, filled with original Irish artwork. Nothing feels crowded so take your time, move at your own pace and no matter if you’re seriously thinking about buying something or just having a browse there’s no pressure, just really beautiful pieces that you can properly enjoy. Best of all, if you don’t decide to purchase on the spot, but are still thinking about it later, you can visit West of the River Gallery’s website westoftherivergallery.ie and buy it there.
What is striking is the subtle balance of the entire space. It is an art gallery at its core, but as someone who enjoys art but doesn’t know too much about it, it doesn’t feel formal or unapproachable. It feels like somewhere you can just drop into, even if you’re only there on a quick coffee break.
Towards the rear of the gallery there’s more seating if you fancy staying a bit longer and the room separates off into two distinct areas; a gorgeous outdoor patio garden to the left and a cute workshop room on the right. It’s in the workshop where things get a bit more hands-on. Here they host/run creative sessions, from pottery painting to creative workshops, and it’s easy to picture it full of people just having a good time. Pottery painting is the kind of thing you can do for a birthday party, team building, family time, date night or as an activity with pals. To book a session or to find out more about them please tap here.
To the left the courtyard garden feels like a hidden gem within a hidden gem. It has chairs and tables that are covered and protected from the elements, making it a popular spot for anyone who enjoys a cuppa al fresco. There is more to come with this space too, with plenty of events planned for the coming months.
However, what is really apparent is the care that owner Kelly and her husband Liam have put into it. You can tell it’s the result of a lot of thought and a genuine love for art and design. Everything from the artists they showcase, the selection of design products on offer to the fact that pieces are framed in-house gives the space a super personal touch. It’s not just about selling art; it’s about making it part of everyday life, making it accessible. Maybe you leave with a piece of art, maybe you don’t, but you always leave with a greater appreciation for art in your life.
So if you’re in Galway and looking for something different to do, West of the River Gallery is well worth the trip out. For a coffee. For a gift. For a workshop. For the art. You can visit West of the River Gallery in Athenry on Old Church Street, and for any queries contact them on 085 705 6444 or info@westoftherivergallery.ie.
West of the River Gallery - explore | create | belong
All photos of West of the River Gallery by Ciarán MacChoncarraige.
