Hall of the Red Earl
Explore 13th-century ruins and 11,000+ artifacts at this free historical site in Galway.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Hall of the Red Earl
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore 13th-century ruins and 11,000+ artifacts at this free historical site in Galway.
"A very cool, free exhibit where there has been an excavation of an historic site."
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this historical gem without spending a euro. Perfect for budget travelers!
📍 Hidden Gem Location
It's down a small alley near the Druid Theatre. Keep an eye out!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Medieval Ruins
Main excavation site
Walk above the 13th-century foundations of Galway's first municipal building.
Excavated Artifacts
Exhibition area
See over 11,000 artifacts unearthed from this historic site.
Historical Context
Information panels
Learn about the Earl of Ulster and the powerful Tribe families of Galway.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free History & Artifacts
Location & Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this historical gem without spending a euro. Perfect for budget travelers!
📍 Hidden Gem Location
It's down a small alley near the Druid Theatre. Keep an eye out!
🚶♀️ Walkway Views
Stand in the middle of the ruins on the viewing walkway for a unique perspective.
📚 Learn the History
Read the informative panels to understand the site's significance.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission!
Enjoy this historical gem without spending a euro. Perfect for budget travelers!
📍 Hidden Gem Location
It's down a small alley near the Druid Theatre. Keep an eye out!
🚶♀️ Walkway Views
Stand in the middle of the ruins on the viewing walkway for a unique perspective.
📚 Learn the History
Read the informative panels to understand the site's significance.
📅 Check Opening Hours
Open Mon-Fri 9:30-16:45 & Sat 10:00-13:00 (May-Sep).
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Hall of the Red Earl to be a fascinating and worthwhile free historical exhibit, appreciating the excavated artifacts and the unique viewing walkway over the medieval ruins. While small, it offers a good glimpse into Galway's past, especially when combined with informative panels or a local walking tour. Some note it's a brief visit, best suited for those with a keen interest in history.
"Only the foundations remain of the hall itself, but there's a nicely done free exhibition that shows a variety of finds excavated at the site and explains what it would have originally looked like. Worth a short visit for anyone interested in history."
Oliver Schofield
"Hall of the Red Earl is a very cool, free exhibit where there has been an excavation of an historic site. It is down a small alleyway across from the Druid Theatre. Good such a small site, there is a good amount of information and a walkway sound the top of the ruins. Very interesting and worth a stop when in Galway."
Millie Kwan
"This awesome exhibit of information, and ruins, is of what was actually a medieval town hall which takes its name from the Earl of Ulster, Richard de Burgo."
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What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Hall of the Red Earl is located down a small alleyway across from the Druid Theatre in Galway city center. It's easily accessible on foot if you're exploring the city.
While there isn't dedicated parking directly at the site, several public car parks are available within walking distance in Galway city center.
Yes, many free walking tours of Galway include a stop at or near the Hall of the Red Earl, offering historical context.
The most convenient way to reach Galway from Dublin is by train, which takes approximately 2.5 hours and offers scenic views.
The exhibition area and viewing walkway are generally accessible, but it's advisable to check on-site for specific accessibility details.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Admission to the Hall of the Red Earl is completely free, making it an excellent budget-friendly historical attraction. +1
The Hall of the Red Earl is typically open Monday to Friday from 9:30 AM to 4:45 PM, and Saturdays from 10:00 AM to 1:00 PM, with extended hours from May to September.
No, advance booking is not required as admission is free. You can visit during their operating hours.
Based on available information, the Hall of the Red Earl is generally not open on Sundays. It's best to confirm hours for specific dates.
Occasionally, the Hall of the Red Earl hosts special exhibitions, such as the patchwork and quilting displays mentioned by visitors.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You can see the excavated ruins of Galway's first municipal building, dating back to the 13th century, and a free exhibition of over 11,000 artifacts found on site. +1
A visit to the Hall of the Red Earl is typically short, often taking around 30-60 minutes, depending on your interest in the history and artifacts.
While there isn't a formal guided tour of the site itself, many free walking tours of Galway city include information about the Hall of the Red Earl.
It was Galway's first municipal building, used for tax collection, justice, and banquets, named after Richard de Burgo, Earl of Ulster.
Restroom facilities are not typically mentioned as being available directly at the Hall of the Red Earl. Public restrooms can be found nearby in the city center.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is generally permitted for personal use within the Hall of the Red Earl exhibition and ruins area.
The viewing walkway offers a unique perspective of the ruins. The surrounding alleyways and nearby colorful streets also make for great photos.
It's always a good practice to check for signage regarding flash photography, especially in exhibition areas to protect artifacts.
A smartphone camera is perfectly adequate for capturing the site and its artifacts. For more detail, a compact or DSLR camera would also work well.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and historical sites. It's best to avoid flying drones near the Hall of the Red Earl.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine your visit with a walk along the Claddagh or a visit to the nearby Galway Market on a Saturday for a more varied family outing. Pack some snacks, as dedicated facilities might be limited.
💰 Budget Travelers
Pair your visit with exploring the free street entertainment in the Latin Quarter
to keep costs down while experiencing the best of Galway.🚶♀️ Solo Explorers
Consider joining a free walking tour of Galway; these are often excellent for solo travelers to meet others and gain local insights, with the Hall of the Red Earl frequently being a point of interest.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The History of the Hall of the Red Earl
In the 15th century, power shifted dramatically as the influential Tribe families of Galway seized control from the De Burgos. This led to the abandonment and eventual covering over of the Hall. Over centuries, the site was built upon, and its original structure was largely lost to time. The remains were rediscovered and excavated by the Office of Public Works in 1997, revealing the foundations and a wealth of artifacts that tell the story of its past.
Today, visitors can explore the excavated ruins via a viewing walkway and examine over 11,000 artifacts in the accompanying free exhibition. This provides a tangible connection to Galway's medieval heritage, offering insights into the lives of its early inhabitants and the historical power struggles that shaped the city.
Exploring the Surrounding Area
Nearby attractions include the Galway Cathedral, a grand and imposing structure, and the scenic Long Walk and Claddagh, offering picturesque waterfront views and iconic colorful houses.
Many travelers find that a free walking tour of Galway is an excellent way to discover these surrounding areas and gain a deeper appreciation for the city's history and culture. These tours often highlight hidden gems and provide local insights that enhance the overall experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit