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Athenry, County Galway

Posted by (Michigan) on

My husband and I are registered for the first My Way Ireland tour in 2027. Having been on both other RS Ireland tours we know we can find plenty to do on a My Way tour. During our tour this past April we heard the song "The Fields of Athenry". Since our return home we have learned and memorized the lyrics of the song. Today we decided we'd like to travel to Athenry during our stop in Galway. Athenry is located about 20 miles from Galway. I did some research and it looks like a fun day trip village with many interesting buildings. I know there is train service from Galway to Athenry and there are places to have lunch. Have any of you been there.? If so, did you find it a worthwhile use of your time?

Traveler Girl

Posted by
3091 posts

I've been - quite a few years ago now and really liked the town with its medievsl street plan, remains of the town walls and ruined castle and Dominican Priory. It is a shame it doesn't festure on more itineraries.

Posted by
281 posts

Thank you, Wasleys! I'm glad to hear Athenry is as special as I'd read it was.

Traveler Girl

Posted by
1202 posts

We were there a in 2023 while driving from Galway to Doolin. The song always brings a tear to my eye.

The castle is well restored with lots of signage and a short video. The ranger that was taking admissions was bored, so she gave us a full informal tour and 15 minute chat-up as we were the sole visitors. We got the last parking spot in the small lot, so I guess everyone else was walking the old walls or the town. One of the gun slits had a rook's nest full of newly hatched babies.

Afterwards, we had a nice lunch at the Old Barracks while strolling around the town.

If history and castles are of interest, I'd give it a thumbs up.

Posted by
281 posts

Thanks for the info jjgurley! That song gets in my head frequently, an ear worm. How fortunate for you that the castle ranger was bored the day you visited. Your and wasley's posts have me very excited for the My Way trip!

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