While Galway Has Much to Offer When it Comes to Souvenirs, Here is Your Best Stand - Out Shop Guide For Your Next Holiday…
There is not a street to go down without a peek-worthy souvenir shop sitting along Galway’s many pathways. Here's a list of some of the best out there!
It's no secret that Galway is an incredibly popular destination year-round, from the likes of Shop Street and Salthill Promenade, to the scenic sites of Diamond Hill and Connemara. With these amazing spots come some equally amazing souvenir shops, in which you can take a piece of the City of Tribes home with you.
As we all know, stepping into a souvenir shop can be overwhelming at the best of times - especially when trying to take home a trinket that feels as special to you as the memories made. To make things that bit easier for you, we’ve created a guide to give you a taste of the best souvenir shops in Galway for your next visit.
If you are looking for something more traditional:
Gifts from Galway
This family-owned souvenir shop encompasses everything and anything that has to do with the West of Ireland. Located just a five-minute walk from Galway's city centre on William Street, Liam Garvey, the shop owner, prides himself in being a Galway man of over 40 years. He ensures his store has it all, with all things quality and a touch of humour here and there. They proudly sell Irish-made produce, such as the iconic flat cap for all ages; young and old. They also provide Connemara Marble and offer other fantastic gift options making it easy to find something special for everyone, whether you’re looking to find the perfect bracelet or cool whiskey stones!
Carroll's Irish Gifts
When it comes to knitwear, Carroll’s Irish Gifts have truly got you covered. Stocking loads of Aran Knitwear, here you will find everything you need from headscarfs to jumpers for everyone, all ages. There are no shortages for gifts and trinkets in Carroll’s either. They pride themselves on their Irish souvenirs such as tote bags and books, to Guinness glasses and chocolates. There is definitely something for everyone in Carroll’s Irish Gifts, supplying you everything you could want to bring a taste of Galway home with you. Located on both Williamsgate Street as well as High Street, there’s plenty of opportunity to pop in and see what it's all about.
Galway Woollen Market
Located on High Street near the fabulous Spanish Arch in the heart of Galway City, you are spoilt for choice when it comes to knitwear in Galway Woollen Market. Supplied by Aran Islands Knitwear, quality as well as tradition is top priority in the shop. With Galway Woollen Market being a third generation family run business, they pride themselves off their handpicked and unique products. Each piece is distinct in itself and made with the utmost care. There is something for everyone in this store, as well as soft toys that are sure to be a great gift at home. With its welcoming store front of bright orange, you'll be sure to come across it!
If you are hoping to take home something with a contemporary twist:
My Shop… Granny Likes It
Located on Abbeygate Street Upper, My Shop… Granny Likes It is in a perfect location at the centre of activity in Galway City. With everything from jewellery to prints, and homeware to artwork, Rona O Reilly, store owner, ensures that the contemporary store stocks all Irish makers and designers of every sort of souvenir, which shines a much needed light on under - the - radar creators. The abundance of variety from one piece to the next puts a spin on traditional Celtic designs that are found in other souvenir shops without taking away from the value that they hold. This store is perfect if you are looking for something that little bit fantastically quirky to take home with you, and ideal for gifts of all kinds!
Connemara Blue
Located on Main Street, Clifden, this family-owned store is home to some beautifully unique glass art pieces, created in-store by hand. Connemara Blue is run by the father and daughter duo of Ben and Tash, as well as wife Pauline. If you are looking to find a trinket travel buddy, look no further than the iconic Scooter the Penguin! This durable creation will happily accompany you across the world, as he has done for so many before - the Crow family assure shoppers that he is tough enough for it. Beyond their gorgeous quirky finds, true pieces of art are for sale too. Masters of their craft, Connemara Blue have embraced the rolling landscapes of Clifden and managed to capture them in the eye (and light!) catching fashion that is glass cutting.
Ah Sure, Look It
If you're hoping to find a local gem to take home from your visits in Galway, Ah Sure, Look It is the place to go. Not only are they the perfect stop for a souvenir, but also a craft store; the vast majority of their products are created by local artists, makers and designers, and the few smaller European brands that are on show are ethically sourced and sustainably made, making for a genuine personal touch to the store. From cards to jewellery, it is a perfect stop when it comes to gift-getting. If you'd like to go above and beyond with a personal touch, or are looking for an evening activity, book into their jewellery making classes! Take a look at their website to find out more!
If you want something a little on the wellness side:
Amber
Even though Amber may not be seen as so much of a souvenir shop, it is a meditative and holistic sanctuary filled with a range of trinkets that are perfect to bring home from your travels, for yourself or to give to family and friends. Offering everything from incense sticks to jewellery boxes, and ornaments to tarot cards, this healing practice shop will leave you feeling that bit more grounded, and is worth the visit. With an eye-catching warm orange painted front, as well as the ambient music floating from its front door, this jewel is hard to miss! Located on Mary Street, it is a short six-minute walk from the famous Galway Cathedral, on your way back to Eyre Square.
Wooden Heart
Having been creating toys and gifts for over 40 years Wooden Hearts, located on Quay Street, is no stranger in delivering next level quality and attention to detail in their work. Their products consist of wooden toys and fantastic unique gifts, while also compiling cards and prints associated with Irish folklore depicting fairies perched in forests as well as trolls. Wooden Heart’s products have quite a fantastical or superstitious nature to them, perfect for gifting loved ones. While it would not be considered specifically a souvenir store, they possess ideal presents for the little ones back home. When you have finished your shopping, why not pop down for a coffee in the cosy Coffeewerk + Press, just across the street, where the quirky gifts continue.
If you are jewellery-focused:
Claddagh Jewellers
Having been around since 1967, it’s no secret that the home of the authentic Claddagh ring has developed a renowned reputation for itself. Apart from this iconic piece, Claddagh Jewellers possess many collections, such as Celtic earrings, bracelets and the Children of Lir series, to name a few. With Claddagh Jewellers own buyers sourcing gemstones and diamonds from the source of major gem centres, you are guaranteed top quality products in whatever you choose. With this, some pieces are proudly exclusive to Claddagh Jewellers. These pose as perfect gifts from the West, as well as serving as a keepsake from your time spent in Galway. Located on Mainguard Street, this store is in the ideal spot of the lively hustle and bustle that is Galway.
O’Dalaigh Jewellers
Located in Clifden, this family-owned jewellers creates beautifully handmade and traditional Celtic jewellery pieces, such as their Ogham bar collection (the oldest form of Irish writing), as well as other contemporary designs. There is a wide range of jewels and gems to choose from within O'Dalaigh Jewellers, with the opportunity to create a one-of-a-kind piece of your own design. The personal touch that comes with the O’ Dalaigh family owned business ensures that each piece you are guaranteed is of that all important quality. With Clifden having an array of natural beauty and landscapes of its own, be sure to take the time to pop into O’Dalaigh’s to top it all off with the perfect sentimental gift for everyone.
Foxford Jewellery
Stepping away from traditional Celtic designs without taking away from their legendary identities, Foxford Jewellery creates the celebrated Claddagh design with a twist. Lorcan Field, the creator behind all Celtic and Claddagh designs, ensures historic Irish folklore and fantasies are at the heart of each design launched and, with the help of digital technology, an artistic flare is added to each collection. In turn, captivating embellishments along each piece are created, which gives them that unique touch that makes Foxford Jewellery so special. Located just past the entrance of Corbett Shopping Centre just a stone throw away from Eyre Square, it's sure to catch your eye!
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