Explore
EAT, EXPERIENCE & EXPLORE THINGS TO DO IN GALWAY
Only the best make the list.
The Galway Races
Some 250,000 people attend the Galway Races throughout the week, and the town has a real buzz at night, with hangovers aplenty the following day. Galway comes alive the last week of July every year as the biggest & most famous racing festival comes to town.The Galway races are not just about the horse racing – there’s live music, great food, fashion & plenty of craic people-watching. It is a fun-filled seven days where you might leave with a few more euros than when you arrived – if you’re lucky, but you will leave with new friends, a hangover & a week you won’t forget.Whether you make it to the racecourse or sit in the pub people watching Woodquay is a great place to base yourself for “Race week” (as it’s known locally) it is THE week to be in Galway.
Take in a festival
Visit Galway during festival time (March – October) and you’ll understand the city’s reputation as the festival capital of Ireland. Every year, Galway comes alive with festivals that draw the very best of local and international talent. Festival season kicks off with the St Patricks day Parade in Galway in March and runs through to the Galway Comedy Festival in October.There are two major summer Galway festivals: The Galway International Arts Festival which packs in over 200 shows in 25 locations and will dazzle you with music, theatre & art. The Galway Races in July & early August which will have you out in the streets having a drink with the thousands of people who flock to Galway. You can watch something unique at The Galway Film Fleadh in July or enjoy Guinness and oysters by the river during Septembers Galway Oyster Festival. Either way prepare to party.
Walk Galway – Salthill
No trip to Galway is complete without a walk along the Salthill Promenade to Galway Bay. Escape the bustling city and walk or cycle the 1.5 miles to the sea.Leaving Woodquay, walk along the River until you come to Wolf Tone Bridge, wander along Nimmo’s Pier past The Claddagh & look over to the brightly coloured houses on The Long Walk. You’ll meet walkers & joggers all taking in the sea air. Make sure you kick the wall at the end of the Prom – it’s tradition & if you’re brave enough take a leap off BlackRock diving board & join the swimmers in the Atlantic Ocean.
THE WILD ATLANTIC WAY
When it comes to road trips the Wild Atlantic Way has to be among the best in the world, maybe not as much sunshine as route 66 but the beaches rival anything you’ll find in the Caribbean.The 1600 mile spectacular journey takes you from Donegal to Cork, through lively colourful towns, hidden bays & dramatic cliffs. Galway City is the perfect gateway to The Wild Atlantic Way. Whether you’re stopping off as you drive it from end to end or day trip to your favourite spots from Galway it’s going to be a journey to remember.
The Cliffs of Moher
You cannot travel to the West of Ireland without paying a visit to the breath-taking Cliffs of Moher, situated just 45 mins from Galway City Centre.The Cliffs of Moher have majestically faced the Atlantic for over 350 million years and their beauty is stunning.It is Ireland’s most visited tourist attraction and when you visit you will understand why.Make sure to ask at reception for our fab tour options.
Connemara
Connemara is possibly the most beautiful area of Ireland and Galway is lucky to be its home. Stretching from Galway Bay to Killary Harbour Connemara has jaw-dropping scenery.Steeped in tradition, this is Irelands largest Gaelic speaking area. This is the place for long beach walks, hiking, cycling, inspiring drives, adventure activities and Irish heritage. Densely populated, in some parts of Connemara there are more sheep than people, but Connemara also boasts spectacular attractions & activities like Kylemore Abbey, Killary Harbour, Westport, Clifden Castle. Galway is the perfect stepping off point for an unforgettable journey. Make sure to ask at reception for our fab tour options.
Corrib House Tea Rooms
Now this special place is one of our all time favs! Tucked down a quiet corner of the river, Corrib House offers delicious brekky treats and lip-smacking brunches. WQ Guests receive 10% off when they flash their discount card. Ask at reception for a voucher.
Tribe Coffee SHop
Tribe Coffee Shop is only a hop, skip and a jump down the road from our front door. They offer a range of specialty coffee, delicious smoothies as well as freshly baked treats. What’s more they have teamed up with WQ Hostel to offer a deal for the locals: 15% off for Woodquay Hostel guests. Ask at reception for a voucher.
RENZO
Fancy some art & literature with your breakfast? Then Renzo is the place for you. Just around the corner from Woodquay, this friendly café is the perfect spot for your morning coffee or a full Irish breakfast.Renzo provides gallery space on its walls to locally based artists which change on a regular basis, so there’s always something to look at. If you fancy a read the Café has the daily newspapers or a selection of second-hand books from Charlie Byrnes bookshop, perfect for lazy mornings.Renzo & Woodquay hostel have teamed up to offer 10% discount to our guests.
Burgerstory
Stroll down the fab Shop Street in the hustle and bustle to stop off for a tasty burger and fries.US-style burgers, chili, wings and fries freshly prepared with the best of Irish ingredients. Expect classic American burgers with no faff and they give a great welcome.Burgerstory and Woodquay Hostel have got together to offer our guests 10% off.
Salsa - Authentic Mexican Food
Delicious, delicious, delicious! That's what comes to mind when we think about Salsa!Woodquay Guests can enjoy their choice of a Burrito, Gringa or Nachos and any soft drink for only €12.50 when they show their WQ discount card.
Bridie Murphy's
Running to the bus or train station? You'll pass by fabulous Bridie Murphy's on your way.Why not grab a warming hot drink or one of their famous scones on your walk?Guests will receive 10% off with their WQ discount card.