Galway then Ballynahown Pier - 4 May 2023

4 May 2023 - Galway & Ballynahown Pier

Considering we were parked in a big public train station carpark - it was surprisingly quiet and we slept well.

Two return tickets from Oranmore into Galway were €12 - only one stop and 8 minutes away.

Galway has over 80,000 people. It was centrally located for trade with all other points on the west coast, as well as beyond to Europe. Not much of Galway has survived. Think we were both strangely disappointed by how little of interest there is to see.

Started off in Eyre Square. There is a bust of John F Kennedy (he did a speech here a few months before he was assassinated).

The rust coloured “Hooker” sculpture was built in 1984 to celebrate the 500th anniversary of the incorporation of the city. The sails represent Galway’s square-rigged fishing ships (hookers) and the vessels which made Galway a trading centre so long ago.

The Browne Doorway, from a 1627 fortified townhouse, is a reminder of the 14 family tribes who once ruled the town.

We walked to the museum - it’s free to look inside. I just wasn’t feeling it today - and couldn’t be bothered with all the exhibits - too many words! The photo from there is of an intact Galway “Hooker” fishing boat hanging from the ceiling. And who knew that a swam of jellyfish is called a ‘smack’!

From there we were at the Spanish Arch - which would be very easy to miss. It overlooks the River Corrib, and is the best remaining chunk of the old city wall. The arch, c.1584 is the place where Spanish ships would unload their cargo - primarily wine.

Across the River is a modern housing project, which replaced the original Claddagh in the 1930s. Claddagh was a picturesque Irish-speaking fishing village, but torn down in the early 1900s for health reasons. The tradition of its popular ring carries on. I had one of these rings as a teenager - how or why - I don’t remember! If the ring is worn with the tip of the heart pointing in, it signifies that the wearer is in a relationship, if the tip is pointing out - the wearer is available! Didn’t know that at the time of wearing it!

We walked through the Latin Quarter where there were a few buskers, and on past the late 15th century limestone tower - Lynch’s Castle, easy to pass by, as it’s now a bank!

The Cathedral of St Nicholas was only opened in 1965, one of the last great stone churches built in Europe. The mahogany pews are set on green Connemara marble floors under a Canadian cedar ceiling. Not sure what I think of the abdomen of Jesus on the cross! It was 11am, and a service started, so we quietly departed.

Walked alongside the river towards Salthill, but decided we’d seen enough as it was nearly lunchtime! Ate at a place called 1520 - both had Irish beef stew and root vegetables with mash - was tastier than the photo depicts! €41.

It was much busier after lunch, walked back and caught the 13.46 train back to Dave.

Tintin driving today, should have been about an hour, but stuck in slowly moving traffic through Galway and along the sea front.

First topped up with LPG again - was €1.30/ltr was only €0.95 a week or so ago! No matter - we’re full again.

The Salthill promenade goes out past Barna and Spiddle, which I’m sure is lovely with the tide in and the sun out! Was busy even today…

Both the forecasts we’d looked at said rain today, quite heavy this afternoon - we were prepared - rain coats, umbrellas, waterproof shoes - and did it rain? - no! And yes that’s a good thing!

We’re now parked at a discovery point, however Co-pilot sent us down a narrow, bumpy track - plus it was nearly 1km! The very last big bump took out the end of the waste water pipe under Dave - which Tintin then expertly ‘repaired’ with glue and gorilla tape!

This must be one of the smallest harbours - I’m sure it will be peaceful tonight - once again, no one else around. Can just about see the Aran Islands in the distance. There’s an airfield nearby - flights only take 8 minutes!

Spoke to another UK lady who had been to Galway today - she had the same screwed up expression on her face when asked about did she enjoy it - ok, but wouldn’t rush back!

It’s about 6pm, and we’ve had a few spots of rain, maybe it will get it all over and done with overnight 🤞

Over 13,000 steps today, and we’re now back on the Wild Atlantic Way after our little detour inland.