Museums

The Sheep & Wool Museum was founded in 1992 with a view to displaying and conserving different items which were used in the wool industry locally. You are invited to enjoy the exhibits and demonstrations indoors, or take a stroll among the friendly sheep outdoors. Shop at your leisure for gifts and souvenirs, or choose from the delicious home-made fare from our own kitchen. Visitors to the museum obtain a great insight into the history and importance of wool in Ireland and come away more conscious of the need to protect our heritage and our culture. We hope that you enjoy your visit to Leenane, and that you will come visit us while you are here.

Nora Barnacle, the wife of James Joyce was born in Galway .The Nora Barnacle House is a small private museum faithfully restored to its former character. It contains letters, photographs and other exhibits from the lives of the Joyces and their connections with Galway. Open in Summer only.

Galway City Museum reopened on 16th April 2007 with the launch of its permanent exhibition. Among the highlights on show is a rare 17th century altar piece, the new location of the statue of Pádraic Ó’Connaire and the Galway City hooker boat, named 'Máirtín Oliver' by the general public.

Dartfield Horse Museum and Park is located in Kilrickle, East Galway. It boasts impressive exhibits dedicated to the history of Irish horses, dogs and Connemara ponies. The museum features all aspects of Irish country life from 1800 & 1900, Veteran cars, nature trails, farm walks, pony rides, cafe and gift shop. For groups of 20+ there is clay pigeon shooting, archery, team games and much more

Award winning heritage centre located 5 miles from Clifden Town, the capital of Connemara. It offers a unique insight into the history and heritage of this most beautiful part of the West of Ireland. Offers fine reconstructions of early settlement in the area including a crannóg, a ring fort and a clochaun. Audio visual presentations in English, Irish, German & French. Tea room serving teas etc.

Both a museum and a jewellery shop, this establishment is dedicated to the history of this Galway made ring. Named after an old fishing area in the county, the rings were worn to indicate marriage but now they are just a token of friendship and are worn by Irish and Irish descendents the world over.