Top Things to do in County Galway
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The 10 Best History Museums in County Galway, Western Ireland
Discover the best top things to do in County Galway, Ireland including Glengowla Mines, Finnertys Mills and Museum, Connemara Heritage and History Centre, The Battle of Aughrim Visitor Centre, Claregalway Museum and Forge, Galway City Museum, Nora Barnacle House, Clifden Station House Museum, Lackagh Museum and Heritage Centre, Lettermullen and Gorumna Heritage Centre.
Restaurants in County Galway
1. Glengowla Mines
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 426 reviews
Buried beneath the Connemara Mountain lies a way of life long abandoned and almost forgotten just waiting for you to explore! Let the team at Glengowla Mines lead you on a journey of discovery of how lead and silver were mined from the roots of the Connemara Mountains in the 1800’s. The constant dripping of water, the ‘miners breath’ and if you are brave enough - a moment of darkness will set the scene! Delve into the depths of Glengowla mines where you can explore the caverns of marble studded with lead and silver. Follow the veins of copper pyrite which will lead you to the ‘miners gold’ - Galena. Marvel at the rare and beautiful crystals of quartz and fluorite. Learn of the working conditions the miners worked under before the mines closed in 1865. A firm favourite with adults and children alike is to pan for gold and gems at our gold panning station and keep any gems you find! Not only will you enjoy guided tours of the mines,
Reviewed By sarahoR5721WQ
One of the best afternoons spent in Connemara. Great for kids and adults. The staff were all friendly and very patient with my son (and his millions of questions). The Sheepdog display is a must, we loved meeting Jess the sheepdog and watching her herding the sheep to us so we could pet and feed them. The mine tour was great, limited group numbers so not rushed and really interesting with a very knowledgeable and funny guide. We were taught how to pan for gold and even given a little bag to bring our treasure home. A relaxed afternoon in beautiful surroundings to wander around. Great attention to Covid measures, everything we touched was cleaned. I Highly Recommend a visit here!
2. Finnertys Mills and Museum
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 2 reviews
Discover all there is to know about a water-powered Corn Mill. The Corn Mill is a recorded monument and an important part of our industrial heritage. Gain an understanding of how oats and wheat were milled in a bygone era.
Reviewed By Galwaywalks - Galway, Ireland
I stumbled across this gem, an authentic 18th century water-mill in November last year with my brother. We popped in for a look and were amazed at the whole experience. The mill has been lovingly restored buy the current generation of the Finnerty family who can trace their ownership of the mill back over 220 years. When we asked if the mill-wheel and attached machinery still worked, we were treated to a whole lesson in 19th century milling techniques and watched in wonderment as the water turned the massive wheel, setting the grinding wheels in motion. It was just a fantastic experience. And we got tea and scones to sustain us to our next stop. The mill is a wonder of engineering and is such an authentic visitor experience. I was fascinated, your children will be transported!
3. Connemara Heritage and History Centre
4. The Battle of Aughrim Visitor Centre
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 23 reviews
Reviewed By M5128BQmarym
Excellent, informative and comprehensive presentation by extremely knowledgeable members of Battle of Aughrim Historic Group covering aspects surrounding the battle. I understand this is an annual event and I suggest it is well worth attending. During the presentation I was made aware of the significance of the battle in Irish and European history. Given the importance of this site I was surprised to learn that the Centre doesn’t receive funding from the national coffers and seems to depend on a dedicated group of interested individuals who have gathered and collated battle details. Much needed funding would ensure that the Center could be updated, modernised and that the information gathered would be available to future generations.
5. Claregalway Museum and Forge
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2 reviews
The Society and Museum aims to encourage the appreciation, knowledge and preservation of Claregalway area's rich historical, cultural and archaeological heritage.
6. Galway City Museum
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 760 reviews
Reviewed By 619jeffry - Essendon, Australia
The Galway Museum illustrates Galways's long history, going back to medieval times. Galway's connection with the sea is prominent. The modern era deserves well-earned attention. The Museum is by the river, it is easy to find. The museum is moderately large, it's worth a couple of hours. Entry is gratis.
7. Nora Barnacle House
Overall Ratings
3.5 based on 14 reviews
The childhood home of James Joyce's wife has been restored as a museum commemorating the lives of the Joyces.
8. Clifden Station House Museum
9. Lackagh Museum and Heritage Centre
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 2 reviews
10. Lettermullen and Gorumna Heritage Centre
Overall Ratings
4.0 based on 1 reviews
