University of Galway (UoG) first opened its doors in 1849 and remains a leading third level institution today with over 17,000 students matriculating here.
Originally called Queen’s College, Galway, it later became part of the Queen’s University of Ireland. In 1908, the college was made a constituent college of the new National University of Ireland and under a brand new charter, the college adopted its present-day name. The 259 acre campus is located very close to the city centre and encompasses 90 different buildings. Notably, the university is currently part of a £400 million expansion programme.
What to see and do at the University
University Trail map
University Places of Interest
The Quadrangle at University of Galway
The Quadrangle, the heart of the University of Galway, was constructed in 1845. Designed in the Tudor Gothic style and built using locally quarried limestone, it remains a symbol of the university’s rich history. Inspired by Christ Church College, Oxford, it continues to serve as a focal point on campus, hosting official events and welcoming students and visitors.
The James Mitchell Geology Museum
Located on the top floor of the Quadrangle, the James Mitchell Geology Museum is known as Galway’s ‘hidden museum.’ It houses over 15,000 specimens, including fossils, rocks, and gemstones from around the world, providing an invaluable resource for geology students and enthusiasts.
University of Galway’s imperial past
Established in 1845 under a Royal Charter granted by Queen Victoria, the University of Galway was originally one of three Queen’s Colleges in Ireland. The Quadrangle retains several traces of its imperial heritage, including royal insignia and architectural elements reflecting its 19th-century origins.
Zoology and Marine Biology Museum
Located in the Martin Ryan Building, this museum houses over 500 preserved animal specimens, including skeletons and taxidermy displays. It serves as an essential educational tool for students and a fascinating exhibit for visitors interested in wildlife.
O’Shaughnessy Bridge
Opened in 2012, O’Shaughnessy Bridge spans the Eglinton Canal, connecting the university campus to Galway city centre. Named after Michael O’Shaughnessy, an engineering graduate who designed the Hetch Hetchy water system in San Francisco, the bridge provides a scenic and convenient route for students and locals.
Hardiman Building and Library
Named after the university’s first librarian, the James Hardiman Library houses over 500,000 books. The Hardiman Building also contains valuable archives, including historic manuscripts and literary collections, making it an essential academic and cultural resource.
Modernist Architecture
During the 1970s, the university expanded significantly, incorporating modernist architecture. The Arts/Science Concourse, designed by Scott Tallon Walker, exemplifies this era’s influence, with a sleek and functional design contrasting with the university’s older buildings.
The River Corrib Greenway
Stretching along the scenic River Corrib, the River Corrib Greenway is a picturesque walking and cycling route within the university’s 105-hectare campus. It provides a peaceful escape for students, staff, and visitors, promoting wellness and outdoor activity.
The Alice Perry Engineering Building
Named after Alice Perry, the first female engineering graduate in Ireland and Britain, this state-of-the-art facility houses Ireland’s largest School of Engineering. The building incorporates sustainable technologies and modern learning spaces, reflecting the future-focused nature of engineering education.
The Computer and Communications Museum of Ireland
Dedicated to the evolution of computing, this museum features a collection of vintage computers, telecommunication devices, and early gaming consoles. It serves as both an educational resource and a nostalgic journey into the history of digital technology.
About University of Galway 🎓
There is an extensive selection of courses on offer to all students. The university has five colleges including the college of science, the college of medicine, nursing and health science, the college of engineering and informatics, the college business, law and public policy and the college of arts, social sciences and Celtic studies. Devoted to the preservation of our national heritage, University of Galway also has strong links to the nearby Gaeltacht in Connemara and actively promotes of the Irish language. Led by the University President, the 2,000 teaching staff are fully committed to upholding University of Galway’s international reputation as a research -led university that provides only the highest level of education in an environment that is both supportive and comfortable for its students.
The Quad
Engineering Building
By the river
Huston School
Quad Entrance
NUI Galway
The level of excellence attracts around 2,000 international students annually, from over 92 countries. Student life at University of Galway is not just about academia. It has a unique level of interaction with the surrounding community, through volunteering programmes like ALIVE. It has a huge number of clubs and societies, including the Literary and Debating Society, the History Society and Drama Society. University of Galway’s athletes are also well catered for with a sports building housing a national basketball arena and sports hall, a 25 metre swimming pool with movable floor, an elite gym and more. With over 90,000 alumni, including president Michael D. Higgins and Taoiseach Enda Kenny, it is clear to see why University of Galway is a popular choice with students from all walks of life.
Located on Nun's Island, on the west bank of the River Corrib near Salmon Weir Bridge, Galway Cathedral is one of the largest and most dominating buildings in Galway. Construction...
Known as "Galway’s Hidden Museum," the James Mitchell Geology Museum is a captivating Victorian-style "museum of a museum" located within the historic Quadrangle of the University of Galway. Founded in...
Galway City Cycle Tours invites you to jump on a saddle and join our Guided Relaxed Informative bicycle tour of Galway City. Cost is E25 and includes your bike helmet...
Corrib House Tea Rooms is a lovingly preserved Georgian townhouse overlooking the Salmon Weir and River Corrib, close to the centre of Galway City. Gorgeous views of the roaring River...
h2>Galway’s Leading Expert in Walking Tours 🏰🚶 Galway Tours has been the premier choice for exploring the "City of the Tribes" since 2003. Specializing in private group experiences, they provide...
The Town Hall Theatre in the centre of Galway City presents a 52-week programme covering all the performance arts including theatre, concerts, musicals, opera, ballet and film. Among the major...
Located on Dyke Road, just a short walk from Eyre Square, The Black Box Theatre is one of Galway’s premier performance venues. Known for hosting large-scale shows, it caters to...
Planning a summer holiday in the West of Ireland? Corrib Village is an ideal base for experiencing the sights and sounds of Galway and exploring the wonders of the Wild...
Located across two historic buildings in the city’s vibrant West End, Galway Arts Centre is a flagship venue for contemporary art, performance, and creative education. The main gallery, a beautiful...
