HerGalway Walking Tour

Imagine strolling through Galway with a local guide who brings to life the remarkable women connected to this vibrant Irish city. The HerGalway Walking Tour is a compact yet deeply enriching experience that shines a spotlight on women often overlooked in traditional history books. Led by Marteen Lane, a member of the Approved Tourist Guides of Ireland, this tour offers a fresh perspective on Galway’s past — all for around $23 — and lasts approximately an hour and a half.

What I find particularly appealing about this tour is the way it blends storytelling with authentic sites. You’ll visit meaningful landmarks, from the Magdalen Women Memorial to the Nora Barnacle House Museum, each revealing stories of resilience, innovation, and cultural influence. A second highlight is the guide’s ability to connect these stories to Galway’s broader history, making it both educational and engaging.

That said, a possible consideration is the weather — as with most outdoor activities in Ireland — so being prepared for rain or shine is wise. Also, since the tour runs in all weather unless a severe warning is issued, dressing appropriately is essential for a comfortable experience. Finally, with a small group capped at 15 travelers, expect a personal touch and a chance to ask plenty of questions.

Key points / Takeaways

• Focused on Women’s Stories: The tour’s core is uncovering the lives of women like Lily McAllister, Alice Perry, Nora Barnacle, Lady Gregory, and Kathleen Curran.
• Authentic Historic Sites: Each stop is carefully chosen for its connection to these women, such as the Magdalen Laundries memorial and Nora Barnacle’s house — not just a generic city walk.
• Expert Local Guide: Marteen Lane’s background as a cultural heritage writer ensures detailed, well-researched stories that are both accurate and lively.
• Affordable and Intimate: At around $23, this is a cost-effective way to add a meaningful cultural layer to your Galway trip, with a small group atmosphere.
• Weather Considerations: Running in all weather conditions means you need to dress for Ireland’s unpredictable climate but also means no missed stories due to cancellations.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve at least 28 days in advance for this popular tour, with easy mobile ticketing and a straightforward cancellation policy.

Exploring Galway’s Women’s Stories in a Compact Walk

When I hear about a walking tour that highlights women’s history, I immediately see the value. It’s a chance to learn about the city from a different angle — one often neglected in mainstream guides. Galway’s HerGalway Walking Tour does this well, offering an hour and a half of stories, sites, and insights that give a richer understanding of this city’s past and its courageous women.

Starting in Eyre Square at the Browne Doorway, the tour kicks off with a poignant memorial — the Final Journey Statue — dedicated to women who suffered in the Magdalen Laundries. It’s a powerful starting point, immediately connecting visitors to a difficult chapter of Irish history. Listening to Lily McAllister’s story, who experienced life in the laundry, humanizes this often-abstract history. It’s a reminder that behind every memorial are real people whose stories deserve to be heard.

Next, the route takes you to William Street, where Úna Taaffe once ran her woollen shop. Her story illustrates how a Galway woman took over her family business and turned it into a success. It’s inspiring to see such entrepreneurial spirit, especially from a woman in early 20th-century Ireland.

From there, the tour shifts to Newtownsmith, where you’ll learn about Alice Perry, the first woman in Ireland and Britain to earn an engineering degree in 1906. Standing at the site of her groundbreaking achievement, you get a tangible sense of how she broke barriers long before women’s rights gained wider attention.

The Nora Barnacle House Museum is, of course, a highlight. Known as James Joyce’s wife and muse, Nora’s life in Galway offers a glimpse into Irish literature’s most famous figure. The museum, open during summer, is an intimate spot where you’ll hear about her life, love, and influence. A small donation is appreciated, making it accessible for most visitors.

Continuing to the Galway Arts Centre, you’ll learn about Lady Augusta Gregory, a key player in Ireland’s literary revival and co-founder of the Abbey Theatre. The building’s history as the Persse family’s town house adds a layer of cultural richness to your visit.

At the Galway City Museum, a more somber story unfolds with a bottle cap from a petrol bomb used in the War of Independence. It’s a stark reminder of Galway’s role in Ireland’s fight for independence and the personal stories of local women involved at that time, like Peg Broderick Nicholson.

The final stops at Galway Docks reveal Kathleen Curran’s leadership role as acting harbour master in the early 1950s — a notable achievement in a male-dominated field.

Why This Tour Is a Must-Do for Curious Travelers

This tour isn’t just about ticking off sites; it’s about understanding Galway through the lives of women who made an impact. The stories are often unexpected and inspiring, revealing the city’s layered history in a way that often goes unnoticed.

The small group size makes for an engaging experience where questions are encouraged, and the guide, Marteen Lane, brings a wealth of knowledge as both a guide and cultural heritage writer. His storytelling is clear, balanced, and sprinkled with interesting details — like the fact that the tour’s stories will change from time to time, keeping it fresh for return visitors.

For those who love to connect history with real places, this tour offers a genuine sense of place. You’ll walk from the lively Eyre Square to the historic Docks, passing sites that tie directly to the stories being told. Plus, with the option to book in advance and the flexible cancellation policy, planning is straightforward.

The price point is reasonable, especially considering the depth of stories and the personalized experience. It’s value-packed for travelers interested in women’s history, local culture, or just wanting an authentic, off-the-beaten-path activity in Galway.

Who will love this? It’s perfect for history buffs, literature fans, or anyone curious about Ireland’s lesser-known stories. It also suits travelers who enjoy walking tours that feel intimate and authentic, rather than overly touristy.

Practical Tips for Enjoying the Tour

Dress for Irish weather — layers, waterproofs, and sturdy shoes are a must. The tour runs rain or shine, so don’t let a little rain dampen your plans. Booking in advance is essential, especially if you’re visiting during peak months, as it’s popular and limited to 15 travelers.

Arrive at the Browne Doorway in Eyre Square a few minutes early — the tour begins promptly at 11am. Bring questions, especially if you’re interested in Irish women’s history or local Galway stories; Marteen Lane is an engaging guide happy to share more details.

Since the tour covers historical sites, it’s best suited for those comfortable walking for about 1.5 hours. It’s not wheelchair accessible, as some stops involve walking on uneven surfaces.

The Sum Up

The HerGalway Walking Tour offers a focused, engaging look at Galway’s lesser-known but fascinating women’s stories. For a modest price, you gain a deeper understanding of the city’s cultural fabric through personal stories, historic sites, and expert storytelling. It’s a thoughtful addition to any Galway itinerary, especially for those interested in Irish history, women’s achievements, or local culture.

Ideal for travelers who want a meaningful, small-group experience that combines walking, history, and authentic storytelling — all in a relaxed, friendly atmosphere. Whether you’re a solo explorer or traveling with family, this tour provides a memorable window into Galway’s past that’s well worth your time.

FAQs

How long is the HerGalway Walking Tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, making it manageable even for those with tight schedules.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Browne Doorway in Eyre Square, the heart of Galway, making it easy to find and conveniently located near public transportation.

What is the cost of the tour?
The tour costs about $23.15 per person, offering good value given the depth of stories and sites included.

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking at least 28 days ahead is recommended, as the tour is quite popular. Mobile tickets are available for convenience.

Does the tour run in all weather?
Yes, unless a severe weather warning is issued. Be prepared for rain or shine by dressing appropriately.

Is the tour suitable for children or people with mobility issues?
It’s best suited for most travelers who are comfortable walking for about 1.5 hours. It’s not wheelchair accessible and involves walking on sometimes uneven surfaces.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Absolutely. Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your plans shift.