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Tuam, Co. Galway

Tuam (Irish: Tuaim) is a small town in County Galway. Tuam gets its name from the Tumulus - a bronze age burial ground - on which the town is built. It was established in the 5th century when St Jarlath founded a monastery here, stopping when a wheel broke on his chariot.

The O'Connor Kings, Turlough and Ruari, lived here In the 11th century. Turlough built a castle and an abbey which later became a cathedral. All that remains is part of the wall of their castle, a stone throne known as the chair of Tuam, and the O'Connor name.

The people of Tuam claim it is the smallest city in the world based on the presence of a cathedral, one of the original definitions of what constitutes a city. However, despite Tuam's two cathedrals, it is officially a town. Moreover, the city of St. David's in Wales has a smaller population and is officially a city.

Gardens

Brigit's Garden & Cafe

Oughterard, Co. Galway

Jenny Beale's beautiful themed garden near Oughterard reflects the Celtic festivals and, in addition to woodland trails, ring fort and stone chamber and has a café that is worth a visit in its own right. A walk through the gardens is a ...

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Golf

Ballinrobe Golf Club

Ballinrobe, Co. Mayo
Course Type: Parkland

The Championship Parkland Golf Course at Ballinrobe Golf Club is considered by some, including Padraig Harrington, to be one of the finest in Ireland. Cloonacastle Estate, which dates back to 1238, became the new home for Ballinrobe Golf Club ...

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Self Catering

The Courtyard at Clonalis

Castlerea, Co. Roscommon

Standing on the land that has been the home of the O’Conors of Connacht for 1,500 years, this 45-room Victorian Italianate mansion may seem a little daunting on arrival, but it’s magic - and the hospitable owners, Pyers and Marguerite ...

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What's On

Headford Farmers Market - Co Galway

Headford Farmers Market - 2nd and 4th Saturday of the Month

Keady's Carpark, The Square, Headfort, Co Galway

Contact: 093 35551

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Tourist Attractions

Aughnanure Castle

Oughterard, Co. Galway

Built by the O'Flahertys - one of Connacht's most notable lord families - c. 1500, Aughnanure Castle lies in picturesque surroundings close to the shores of Lough Corrib. The castle is a particularly well-preserved example of one of over 200 Iris ...

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Wedding Venues

Lisloughrey Lodge - Cong County Mayo Ireland

The Lodge at Ashford

Cong, Co. Mayo

Set in the grounds of Ashford Castle, The Lodge at Ashford enjoys one of the most beautiful locations in Ireland, with views down Lough Corrib and, adding interest in the foreground, Lisloughrey Quay with small boats in the harbour and its old st ...

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