For users seeking specialized tour services in the region, Western Tours and Tales are offering expert Guided Tours. We have added Celtic Revival Tours concentrating in the South Galway area, which was closely linked to the Celtic Revival period. Transport can be provided by us, picking you up from your accommodation or you’re welcome to use own group transport.

During the late 19th and early 20th centuries, Cultural Nationalism gained momentum in Ireland, particularly in south County Galway. This 5-hour tour provides an intriguing glimpse into the revival of Irish literary and artistic traditions. The effort was spearheaded by literary colleagues, WB Yeats, Lady Gregory and Edward Martyn.

This private Half-day tour commences in Galway city and he journey takes you south to rural Galway towards Thoor Ballylee. This 15th-century fortified Tower house was once the home of Irish poet, WB Yeats. He purchased it in the early 20th century.

The Guide leader will highlight Yeats’s significant role in the Literary Revival. The guide will showcase his publications on Irish folklore and fairy tales. With the assistance of Irish dramatist and Galway aristocrat, Edward Martyn, he co-founded the Irish Literary Society. He also co-founded the Irish Literary Theater (later to be known as the Abbey) in Dublin. A short scene from the 1952 film The Quiet Man was filmed next to the tower.

Next, the group will continue south about seven kilometers to Coole Park via the R458. This Park is a picturesque nature reserve. It features woodland and Turloughs (disappearing lakes). It also hosts diverse wildlife, including whooper swans. All of these are immortalized in Yeats’s poetry! Coole House was the residence of Lady Gregory who was another Irish Literary Society co-founder. After her death, house fell into ruin and was eventually demolished. Coole Park was central to the Irish Literary Revival. The woodland served as a sanctuary for writers during this Revival period. The ‘Autograph tree’ bears the names of notable visitors. It is within a charming walled flower garden.

Continuing from Coole, your group will travel South-east to visit nearby Loughrea town, home to St Brendan’s Cathedral. The cathedral has been described as a ‘treasure house’ of Celtic Revival art! It was decorated entirely by the Irish Arts and Crafts Movement of the late 19th century. It boasts remarkable elements crafted by prominent Irish artists. The cathedral is renowned for its Stained glass windows. It is also noted for its Bronze statues, sculpted columns, and the extensive use of Celtic patterns throughout.

Once you have finished exploring Loughrea cathedral, you will return to the city with your driver and Guide. You will travel via the Galway countryside.