W.B. Yeats, who won the Nobel Prize for literature, purchased this ancient Norman tower and the adjoining cottages in 1916. Yeats painstakingly restored the tower and for many years Thoor Ballylee was his retreat and inspiration. From here he visited his friend and fellow literary revivalist Lady Gregory in nearby Coole Park. His poetry collection, "The Tower", contains many poems written at Thoor Ballylee. The Tower has been lovingly renovated and looks much as it did when Yeats and his family were living there. Audio-visual presentations are provided on visits to the tower and there is a beautiful riverside walk leading to an ancient mill.
Ask around the neighborhood for the place that serves top quality beer, and you are sure to be pointed towards The Oslo. Whether you're a fan of beer or not, this bar will leave you impressed with its fabulous collection of brews and light meals. Claimed to the first microbrewery in the city, this bar offers a wide range of brews infused with the spirit of Galway. Boasting a selection of 20 beers on tap, along with a sizable collection of international beers, its unlikely that this bar fails to produce one that suits your taste.
Located in Leamaneh, Leamaneh Castle dates back to 16th Century. This property consists of a tower and a luxurious villa. Originally, there stood a manor of Máire ní Mahon, which was later destroyed and rebuilt as a luxurious four storied house. This mansion housed many noble and commoners throughout the centuries and was left in a state of ruins in the 1700s. Now, this property is privately owned and mainly used for farming. Due to its historic background, the Leamaneh Castle has been listed as a cultural heritage of Ireland and holds interest of the culture and history enthusiasts.
Caherconnell Stone Fort is a beautiful fort located in the Clare County. The history of this fort can be traced back to as early as 10th Century. This fort is known for its ringed wall and is excellently preserved. Caherconnell Stone Fort, as the name suggests, is made of stones and is believed to be used between 10th and 13th Centuries. Though the fort is privately owned, it is a popular tourist spot and provides audio-visual tour for the enthusiasts.
Located in the Claregalway, Claregalway Friary is a monastery in Ireland. The history of this abbey can be traced back to the 13th Century when it was founded. The abbey was renovated many times throughout the centuries. The monastery property housed a church, bell tower and a graveyard. The graveyard surrounding the abbey are still in use for the same purpose. Presently, in the state of ruins, this abbey is a place of interest for history enthusiasts and is open for public visitations without any admission fees.
Take a break from your regular city life and visit the village of Abbeyknockmoy. Located in the County of Galway, this village is known for its scenic beauty. Do not miss visiting the remnants of an abbey housed in this village. This abbey dates back to 12th Century and is known for featuring graves of some members of the Royal Irish Family. This abbey makes Abbeyknocmoy a popular tourist attraction and especially invites history and culture enthusiasts for visitation.