Mary Anne B.Canada
Jim was very knowledgeable about Galway's history. Our walking tour was a nice introduction to this historical city. Jim provided great tips for pubs to enjoy at the end of our tour. Very easy to walk back to our ship.
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Private tour in Galway Jim W
A Galway Walkabout
4.6
(7) reviews
-
1 hour
30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
1 hour
30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size
1
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
Jim W.
4.5
Guide rating
13
Reviews
Tours delivered
1 hrs
Avg. response time
Tour Guide for Galway and the West of Ireland. Published writer & poet, Artist, Irish speaker, Storyteller. I am an experienced, qualified Fáilte Ireland - Irish Tourist Board, Regional Tour Guide. I also served on the Committee of Galway Tour Guides Association as its Social Media Officer. In April, 2021, during the Covid lockdown I gave the online tour of Galway City for Flockeo, the French eco-tourism company offering online city tours globally. This tour is available on YouTube. In May, 2022, I offered two successful FREE Walking Tours of Galway City to groups of Ukrainian refugees, to orientate them to their new surrounds. I am published in Irish and English for poetry and stories, and I'm an award-winning playwright, published cartoonist and visual artist. I'm a native of Salthill (The Village), just west of Galway. I have an intimate knowledge of Galway through family, personal involvement and a keen interest in history and culture. I am fluent in Irish and speak some French and Spanish. My motto for my tours is the same as the BBC's for broadcasting - 'to inform, to educate, to entertain. ' 2019, Fáilte Ireland/Irish Tourist Board Badge in Regional Tour Guiding (Accredited Tour Guide). 2019, Quality and Qualifications Ireland (QQI), Certificate in Regional Tour Guiding (Distinction achieved). Galway Tour Guides' Association Committee Member (Social Media Officer). Member of the Approved Tour Guides of Ireland (ATGI). I am not a driver. I can accompany you in your vehicle or I can arrange for a separate car/bus and driver.
Have a question or want to customize this tour? Message Jim W.
Orientational Galway City Walking Tour
Overview of your Galway tour
GALWAY WALKABOUT If you're visiting Galway and have an hour to pass, why not take a Galway Walkabout? Although Galway Borough is fairly large, the old town of Galway is very suitable for a one to one and a half hour walk, to where Ed Sheeran began his musical career, busking at age 14. You'll also get the story of the world-famous iconic Claddagh Ring. You will learn more about US President John Fitzgerald Kennedy's historic visit to Galway and also discover why Galway is the 'City of Tribes'. On every street and round every turn you'll find entertainment - either live busking and traditional sean nós dancing or discover some interesting historical nuggets. This nice walkabout with me is about discovering relevant nuggets of information about Galway and wider afield.
Recent Reviews
Thomas M.United States
Jim was an excellent, friendly and informative guide. We did the 1.5 hour city tour of Galway and it helped to broaden our understanding of the town and its history, so that we were able to appreciate it even more than we otherwise would have. He moves quickly and covers a lot of ground, so be ready, but it never felt rushed or incomplete. Would absolutely recommend to anyone who wants a deeper understanding of the city and its history
Gretchen S.United States
James is a WONDERFUL tour guide. His knowledge of Galway City is outstanding. He was excellent at answering questions and gave a thorough tour. I was quite impressed.
Maria M.United States
Jim was a great guide. We started at Eyre Square and visited many sites along the way to the cathedral;- Lynch castle, St. Nicholas, sites along Quay, Spanish Arch, Corrib River Walk... Jim told u many stories and facts about the history of Galway and what happened at each site. This was a great experience and Jim was very well prepared and helped us understand the history and culture of this city.
Your Galway tour itinerary
• Starting in Galway City Centre, Outside Hardiman Hotel opposite Eyre Square's John F Kennedy Park • I will take you through pedestrianised streets of the old town Historic city landmarks such as: -Lynch's castle - St Nicholas' Collegiate Church - Lynch window - The King's Head and Old Malt House - Spanish Arch are taken in with their legends and stories. Find out the significance of Christopher Colombus, Daniel O'Connell The Liberator, 'Humanity Dick' Martyn, James Joyce & Nora Barnacle, and Bishop Michael Browne, to Galway and wider afar. • A brisk walk along the banks of the River Corrib, Europe's fastest flowing river, takes you to Galway's impressive RC Cathedral. Tour can be customized upon request
Want to customize this tour?
Tell your guide which places matter to you, skip what doesn't, and tailor the experience for your group's needs. Not finding what you want? Message your guide to build something unique.
Transport details
Type: Walking
Walking tour
What's included
Private Guide
What's not included
Other: Personal expenses. St Nicholas Collegiate Church in Galway now requires an Admission fee.
Meeting location
Galway, County Galway, Ireland
Airport: ,Cruise: ,ByGuide: Starting in Galway City Centre, Hardiman Hotel opposite Eyre Square's John F Kennedy Park You can find it using Google maps with the link below: https://goo.gl/maps/dQyX7x5Tindw4wQb6
- You can request a specific meeting location (for example, your hotel) during the checkout.
Other details
Tour categories
City Highlights
History
Tour reference number
1004323
Languages
EnglishActivity level
Minimal
Accessibility
Wheelchair Accessible
Kid Friendly
Traveller reviews
4.6
FAQs
Who is this private tour in Galway best suited for?
This private tour in Galway is perfect for travellers who want to explore the city's rich history and culture in a short amount of time. It's ideal for those interested in music, history, and local legends, as you'll learn about Ed Sheeran's early career, the iconic Claddagh Ring, and US President John F. Kennedy's visit to Galway. The tour is also suitable for families with kids, seniors, and travellers with mobility concerns, as it is wheelchair accessible and kid-friendly.
Can this private tour in Galway be customized to focus on what I want to see and skip places I've already visited?
How long is the tour, and can the start time or duration be adjusted?
Where does the tour start and end?
Is transportation included?
How much walking is involved, and is it suitable for kids, seniors, or travellers with mobility concerns?
What languages is this tour offered in?
What's included in this private tour, and what should I budget for separately?
Is this a private tour? What is the maximum group size and the starting price?
AI-generated. Please confirm details with your guide
-
1 hour
30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
-
1 hour
30 minutes
Walking
Private tour for 1-10 people
Your party size
1
Tour date
View our cancellation policiesUpgrade for total flexibility with Any Reason Cancellation
Book with a depositSecure your tour today and pay your balance later
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