Skeffington Arms, Galway

Advantages: Great atmostphere in bars & on the street, relaxed place, loads of pubs,
Disadvantages: Not a great deal to do

...Unfortunately, we only spent 1 night in Galway but what a contrast to Dublin. Having been to Ireland over 10 times and spent most of it in Navan & Dublin, it was nice to go somewhere different. <u>Getting There>>>>>>></u> Situated on the West Coast, Galway is about 3 hours drive from Dublin. It's meant to be 2.5 hours by train, but ours took 5 hours (not nice). If drivings not for you, then a coach goes from O'Connell Street every hour, costs 9 punts one way or 12 return and isn't too bad. This bus drops you in the heart of Galway, a short walk from the main square and near the train station. However, to get there, I'd recommend hiring a car for a few reasons. Firstly , the trains only run 6 times a day, aren't the best but quite cheap. Secondly, Galway isn't massive, so you'll run out of things to do, unless all you want... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful

Advantages: Lots of pubs and restaurants.
Disadvantages: It's just another small town - and dodgy accounting.

...I've just come home from a two week holiday touring around the West of Ireland - Clare, Mayo and Galway - spending a night or two in B&Bs all over, with the last few spent in Galway. We wanted to see Galway as it has a good repuation for being a lively and lovely city, but after having seen all the natural beauty that the region has to offer, the city was a bit of a let down. If you're after somewhere to enjoy the pubs, restaurants and nightlife then you are spoilt for choice and sure to find something to your taste. The main shopping streets through the city are heaving with people at all hours so make sure you book early for a table in a restaurant. (Check your bill carefully as well. Both restaurants we ate in during our two days had the bill wrong, with items we hadn't ordered appearing on them). Whatever you do, don't go... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average somewhat helpful

Advantages: Elegant, beautiful food, great leisure, beauty, relaxing, staff, free parking
Disadvantages: disabled restricted, no grab handles in rooms, well out of galway

...My english wheelchair partner and myself fancied a short break to galway. After much hunting we decided on the Ardilaun. This hotel is located in salthill just outside Galway. It is a classic mix of grand old house and modern wings located in a walled garden setting which in good weather would be wonderful. The free parking is quite good but a little uphill for the wheelchair or mobility restricted though the wide doors open quickly. Reception is located in a large open grand entrance area and the staff are very pleasant and efficient. We were advised of all the access issues at all times and offered any assistance required. Like many hotels the disabled accessible rooms are not ground floor but the lift is small but adequate to the room level. the corridors are narrow as per an old house but negotiable with occasional help from... Read review

Ciao members have rated this review on average helpful