Tuam
Tuam – the town of two cathedrals
One of the most historic towns in the west of Ireland, Tuam is situated on the N17 just 32km north of Galway. The town was founded by St. Jarlath and his legacy is very much alive today. St. Jarlath’s College is one of the most famous secondary schools in the country, where sporting and academic accolades are regularly achieved.
History
Tuam gets its name from the Tumulus – a bronze age burial ground – on which the town is built. It was established in the 5th century when St Jarlath founded a monastery here, stopping when a wheel broke on his chariot. The O’Connor Kings, Turlough and Ruari, lived here In the 11th century. Turlough built a castle and an abbey which later became a cathedral. All that remains is part of the wall of their castle, a stone throne known as the chair of Tuam, and the O’Connor name. Attacked several times in the 16th and 17th centuries, the town has stood up to the ravages of time.
Tuam is best known as a centre of church affairs, ancient and modern and has two cathedrals. The Catholic cathedral ‘Cathedral of the Assumption’ was built in 1836 and The Church of Ireland cathedral, St. Mary’s is regarded as the finest cathedral in Connacht and parts of it date from the 12th century. Today, both cathedrals are the jewels of Tuam and the marvellous chancel arch and windows, not to mention the restored 14th century Synod Hall of St Mary’s contrast well with the soaring splendour of the tower and spires of the other.
In addition to the two Cathedrals Tuam boasts a wide selection of visitor attractions and historical sites of note including, a High Cross, the Palace Grounds, Castlehackett (reputed to be the burial spot of Queen Maeve) and the Mill Museum. The Mill Museum complex consists of a restored corn mill with operating water wheel, an audiovisual museum and Tourist Information Office. Attraction within driven distance of Tuam include Croagh Patrick, Knock, Connemara, the Shannon and the Burren.
Things to do
Tuam Golf Club is one of the premier parkland courses in the West of Ireland. Relatively flat terrain with meandering fairways, built on 200 acres of partly rich soil and partly peat bog. A wonderful selection of hazards including water, drains, bunkers, natural rough and the 20,000 varied species trees. The whole surroundings of the club are a haven for nature and wildlife.
Also in the area you’ll find fishing, pitch n putt and pony trekking.
Where to stay
Tuam has a wide range of comfortable accommodation options from hotels, guesthouses, and B&B’s.
How to get to Tuam
By bus on Bus Eireann Route 417, Galway – Tuam. Tuam is a commuter town of Galway City, so has regular bus services every day. Alternatively travel by car from Galway taking the N84 road north from Galway.
Map of Tuam, Co. Galway
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