Best Museums in Loughrea

"This easy-to-miss spot on the corner of Galway’s main parade is marked by a medieval-like fortified house structure and a bizarre ape-like gargoyle. The 15th-century ‘castle’ is not often open throughout, with much of it now occupied by a local bank, but a walk around the back will give you a glance at a heartwrenching piece of Galway history. The castle is home to the spot where the Lord Mayor hanged his own son who had murdered a Spanish visitor who winked at his girlfriend."

"At the corner of Shop Street and Abbeygate Street is a robust limestone house that stands apart from the buildings around it. This is Lynch’s Castle, a fortified house that could go back as far as the 14th century but got its current design in the 16th century. The house afforded extra protection from raids to its owners, the Lynch family who had Anglo-Norman roots and were one of the 14 tribes that held sway in Galway in the period."

"Back in the 15th Century there lived a James Lynch, the city mayor. Now whether he felt like he had to live up to his name or not, he is famous, or infamous …"

"Located in Knocknacarra in Galway, Monkey Business play centre is ideal for children of all ages. There are ball pools, bouncing castles, climbing frames, a painting corner, an extensive play area that is suitable for babies and toddlers and a cafe for the parents. Children's parties can be catered for on site, with food for the children included in the package."

"An iconic piece of Galway’s history, the Claddagh ring features two hearts and a crown and can symbolise romantic availability or otherwise, depending on the direction that the crown points. Some firms that make the city’s ring date back to the 18th century. It’s associated with the Joyce Tribe and has spread far and wide in recent years, but several Galway shops (the museum, naturally, is also one) have cornered a local market steeped in tradition."

"A symbol of Irish heritage, the famous Claddagh ring actually originated in Galway. In the nearby neighbourhood going by the same name, which was once a fishing village. At the Claddagh museum and workshop you’ll discover the legend of ring and may even see some being made."

"This easy-to-miss spot on the corner of Galway’s main parade is marked by a medieval-like fortified house structure and a bizarre ape-like gargoyle. The 15th-century ‘castle’ is not often open throughout, with much of it now occupied by a local bank, but a walk around the back will give you a glance at a heartwrenching piece of Galway history. The castle is home to the spot where the Lord Mayor hanged his own son who had murdered a Spanish visitor who winked at his girlfriend."

"At the corner of Shop Street and Abbeygate Street is a robust limestone house that stands apart from the buildings around it. This is Lynch’s Castle, a fortified house that could go back as far as the 14th century but got its current design in the 16th century. The house afforded extra protection from raids to its owners, the Lynch family who had Anglo-Norman roots and were one of the 14 tribes that held sway in Galway in the period."

"Back in the 15th Century there lived a James Lynch, the city mayor. Now whether he felt like he had to live up to his name or not, he is famous, or infamous …"

"Between the vibrant orange exterior and the intoxicating aroma of coffee wafting from within, it’s next to impossible to walk past Espresso 44. Serving up exclusive coffee brand Fixx Coffee and a bespoke menu of wholesome food and sweet treats galore, they’ve even got bags of the good stuff so that you can take it home and brew some of your own. 44 William Street // more here"

"I was introduced to this little gem by a fellow coffee fiend and have continued to return here ever since. Right in the heart of the city on Shop Street, this place is hard to miss, what with its bright orange shopfront and the hordes of customers usually lining up inside. Hands down the best coffee in Galway, order the mocha made with coconut milk and thank me later."

"One of the most popular spots in the city for a quick pit stop, Espresso 44 don't just do amazing coffee!. Their hot chocolate is a pure joy and is made using real chocolate chips - no powder here!. Slightly bitter tones from the darkness of the chocolate offset the sweetness nicely."

"By the time lunchtime comes around, we’re all craving a sweet escape to Urban Grind’s courtyard. Whether it’s coffee and a homemade pastry or a healthy sandwich creation, you’ll feel stress-free and satisfied by the time you get back to reality. 8 William Street West // MORE HERE"

"Creative hub Urban Grind whips up fantastic breakfasts (cinnamon porridge; organic ciabatta with grilled chorizo and poached egg) and lunches (black- and white-bean tortilla with avocado and lime mayo; glazed... Top ChoiceTapas in Galway City"

"NUI Galway was established in 1845 and opened in 1849 as Queen’s College Galway. Stretching along River Corrib, its oldest part is its quadrangle and the nearby Aula Maxima. Among the notable faculty of NUI Galway include Nicholas Canny, Michael Daniel Higgins, George Johnstone Stoney and William King."

"Galway’s contemporary arts hub, the Galway Arts Centre is another revolving exhibition space that takes in an incredible array of local art and entertainment, including theatre and visual arts. The gallery is equally fluid, with a penchant for cartoony modern art and statement sculpture. There are classes, too, if you feel like getting your hands dirty."