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Ireland/Things to Do in Galway, with kids

Galway Cathedral (with kids)

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How Kids-Friendly is Galway Cathedral?

63%Kids-Friendly
View Map

What makes it 63% Kids-Friendly: Children may enjoy spotting stained-glass figures and the JFK mosaic during a short visit, but silence is expected, no play zone exists, and toilets cost extra, so schedule only 30 calm minutes.

Google
Reviews4.6/ 5
(from 5,881 reviews)

Positives:

  • Free Entry: No admission fee; a €3 donation per adult helps upkeep.
  • Stroller Friendly: Ramp at the east transept entrance accommodates prams and wheelchairs.

Challenges:

  • Quiet Space: Children must use soft voices; running and loud play are discouraged.
  • Pay Toilets: On-site toilets cost €0.50 per use; bring coins to avoid delays.
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🏖️ Explore Galway Cathedral with a local guide: GetYourGuide's 10 BEST Activities and Tours around Galway Cathedral. Local guides know the hidden gems you'd otherwise miss, read what other travelers experienced, and book easily.

What is Galway Cathedral?

  • A mid-20th-century Catholic cathedral erected on the banks of the River Corrib on the site of Galway’s former city prison
  • An architectural fusion of Renaissance and Romanesque styles featuring a green copper dome, local limestone exterior and Romanesque arches
  • An interior highlighted by colourful stained-glass windows, malachite floors, a distinctive timber ceiling and a side-chapel mosaic of John F. Kennedy

What is so special about Galway Cathedral for with kids?

  1. Free entry with an optional adult donation makes budget planning easy
  2. Interactive treasure hunt of mosaics and carvings entertains kids
  3. Colourful stained-glass windows teach shapes and colours
  4. Candle-lighting offers a hands-on ritual for families
  5. Riverside views from Salmon Weir Bridge create memorable photos

Recommended visit duration: 2-3 hours

Why 2-3 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Allows time for a treasure hunt, candle lighting and a quick nearby snack without rushing younger children.

(View Galway Cathedral on Map)

Kids-Friendly Activities in Galway Cathedral

Cathedral Treasure Hunt:

Let kids spot animals, angels and the JFK mosaic around the nave.

Tip: Print a simple checklist or draw icons before you go to guide the hunt.

Stained-Glass Story Time:

Sit on a pew and explore bright window designs together with a short picture book.

Tip: Bring a children’s book about colours to spark conversation.

Light a Votive Candle:

Each child can light a small candle and make a wish in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel.

Tip: Carry a few euros for donations and supervise candle handling closely.

View from Salmon Weir Bridge:

Walk across the bridge to see the green dome and reflection on the River Corrib.

Tip: Go at sunset for calm water reflections and a golden glow on the stone walls.

Snack Break at Nun’s Island:

Enjoy ice-cream or pastries at nearby cafés after your visit.

Tip: Choose an outdoor seat so kids can run safely on the riverside walkway.

How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Galway Cathedral

  1. Arrive at Opening: Visit at 10:00 AM to enjoy cooler light and fewer visitors.
  2. Sunday Parking: Park free on Sundays in the Cathedral grounds to save on fees.
🏖️ Tour Galway Cathedral like a local: GetYourGuide's Top 10 Activities and Tours in Galway Cathedral. Local experts uncover hidden treasures you'd never find alone, browse authentic traveler reviews, and book your perfect adventure hassle-free.

Reviews of Galway Cathedral

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Don B Leask

Don B Leask

Aug 2025

A wonderful cathedral to visit, right in the heart of Galway, there is a colourful beautiful dome in the ceiling with many windows to let in the light with a purple glow. Many splendid columns support the wonderful arched wooden ceilings. The organ pipes are in a wonderful display surrounding a beautiful stained glass window. There are many beautiful stained glass windows to see. Many rows of grea...

Bala Vinayagam

Bala Vinayagam

Aug 2025

Must visit. Don't miss it. We just had a couple of hours to spend in Galway and it was cloudy and rainy. On a grey, cloudy and rainy Sunday in Galway, the cathedral feels just right. Its solid stone exterior blends into the muted sky, sitting proudly by the river. Inside, it’s a different world—stained-glass windows glow softly, even without much light, and the faint smell of incense mixes with t...

Luba Mirren

Luba Mirren

Jul 2025

The most beautiful cathedral I’ve ever visited Galway Cathedral truly took my breath away. The architecture, the atmosphere, the light streaming through the stained glass — everything felt majestic and peaceful at the same time. Out of all the cathedrals I’ve seen, this one left the strongest impression on me. A must-visit when in Galway!

Mary Naughton

Mary Naughton

Jul 2025

During my time studying abroad in Galway, I would pass by and stop in daily. I’d come in, light a candle, and say a quiet prayer. I’ve visited on weekdays and weekends. I’ve come for masses and novenas. I’ve prayed each time I walked through these doors. I visited the gift shop and found gifts to send back home, wooden rosary, cathedral slate magnet, postcards, and the like. You can find medals an...

rex n

rex n

Jun 2025

Majestic , Serene & Beautiful! Wonderful place of worship and reverence! The organ, stained glass , alter, etc is just plain amazing. Wonderful history behind all of this as well. A definitely must see in Galway! Pictures don’t do it justice. You have to be here in person to experience and view its grandeur!

When is the best time to visit Galway Cathedral (Galway, Ireland)?

July–August: Attend Thursday organ recitals by donation (€15 adults, €12 concessions). In spring, visit on sunny weekday mornings to see light streaming through the rose windows and avoid crowds.

✈️ Ready to go? Check the latest flight deals to Galway on Trip.com

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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)

ItemCost (Approx.)
Donation (2 adults)EUR 6
Votive candlesEUR 2
Parking (2 hours)EUR 4
Ice-cream/snacksEUR 8
Total EstimatedEUR 20

Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve

Map of Galway Cathedral

Address: Gaol Rd, Galway, H91 A780, Ireland

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About Galway Cathedral

Opening Hours

Monday:8:30 AM – 9:00 PM
Tuesday:8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Wednesday:8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Thursday:8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Friday:8:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Saturday:8:30 AM – 7:00 PM
Sunday:8:30 AM – 7:00 PM

Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.

Website

Official Website

Phone Number

+353 91 563 577

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