The Claddagh Ring Experience
At a glance
The Claddagh Ring Experience is a 1h 30m – 1h 35m small-group experience in Galway, Ireland, operated by Explore Galway with Candela. Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 13 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor. Prices start from $79.93 per person, and free cancellation is available. Included: Coffee and/or Tea, Claddagh ring.
Highlights
- Small group of up to 15 people for a more personal experience
- Free cancellation for flexible planning
- 8 stops in one well-planned itinerary
- Wheelchair accessible
Quick facts
- Duration
- 1h 30m – 1h 35m
- Group
- Small group, up to 15 travellers
- Languages
- English, Spanish
- Pickup
- Meet at the start point
- Confirmation
- Instant confirmation
- Ticket
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Cancellation
- Free cancellation (see policy)
Overview
Step into the story of Galway’s most treasured symbol on this small-group guided walking tour. Explore the origins of the iconic ring, receive your own Claddagh ring to take home, and relax in a cosy local café as you uncover its meaning and learn the traditional way to wear it.
Beginning in the historic fishing village of Claddagh, you’ll take in sweeping Atlantic views while discovering how this iconic ring became a globally recognised symbol of love, loyalty, and friendship. From there, you’ll continue into the old town, where centuries-old stories—rooted in medieval times—have shaped both the town’s character and the enduring legacy of the ring.
- Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours of easy walking
- Includes: Local refreshment and your own Claddagh ring
- Accessible for wheelchairs and strollers, comfortable walking shoes recommended
-Pet friendly
What's included
What's included
- Coffee and/or Tea
- Claddagh ring
Not included
- Food and other drinks
Itinerary
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Stop 1 · 10m
You’ll get a crash course in the city’s history, from archaeology to medieval life.
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Stop 2
The Spanish Arch was built in 1584 but is an extension of the 12th century Norman -built town wall, which stretched from Martin’s Tower to the riverbank.
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Stop 3
The Claddagh or ‘An Cladach’ meaning ‘the shore’, is a notable area in Galway, on the western side of the city. The Claddagh was once an ancient fishing village, dating from the fifth century.
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Stop 4 · 10m
One of Ireland’s best-preserved medieval townhouses, famous for its carved stonework and still in everyday use as a bank.
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Stop 5 · 5m
Galway's only medieval building, dating from 1320
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Stop 6
The building itself dates back over 800 years to the 13th century. Speed’s famous Pictorial Map of Galway (below), drawn in 1651, shows the home of the Mayor of Galway at 15 High Street as one of the tallest and most prominent buildings in Galway with the impressive five storey Stubber’s Castle adjoining it to the rear.
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Stop 7 · 30m
A lively area filled with cobbled lanes, music and old stone buildings. Pause for a tea or coffee like a local, and receive your Claddagh ring, with the story behind it fresh in your mind
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Stop 8
A medieval lane filled with pubs, cafés, buskers, and independent shops, where the city’s trading past and artsy present meet.
Meeting point
Your guide will meet you at the steps outside Galway museum.
Good to know
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Cancellation policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Frequently asked questions
How long does the The Claddagh Ring Experience take?
The experience lasts about 1h 30m – 1h 35m.
How much does it cost?
Prices start from $79.93 per person. The final price depends on the date, time and number of travellers, and is confirmed on Viator before you pay.
What's included?
Coffee and/or Tea; Claddagh ring.
Where does it start?
Your guide will meet you at the steps outside Galway museum.
Can I cancel?
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is guided in English, Spanish.
Is it worth it?
Travellers rate it 5.0 out of 5 across 13 reviews on Viator and Tripadvisor, which places it among the top-rated experiences in Galway.
