what’s inside
Giving
Five
The Joy of Food and the Community it Nourishes
Stay up to date with the Latest News as Gaeilge
Galway’s
Giving Gaeilge the attention it deserves Síomha Ní Ruairc
Interview by Gráinne Thornton
Photos by Evan Doherty
Ireland AM’s leading lady, Siomha Ni Ruairc has been an unwavering advocate for the preservation and promotion of the Irish language. We caught up with the Podcaster, Presenter and Role Model to find out what 2025 has in store for her.
Throughout her career, Síomha has never failed to remain true to her love and appreciation for her native tongue, saying; “She is one of the most valuable things I have in my life because she has given me community, she has given me so many of my closest friends. She is the language through which I communicate with the closest people in my life and she has also given me my career, so I owe a lot to her. She is very, very valuable to me.”
Gaeilge attention Ruairc
One of Síomha’s newest projects is the popular bilingual podcast ‘How to Gael’ which she co-hosts with Louise Cantillon and Doireann Ní Ghlacáin. Every week, the podcast discusses different topics of how-to… as Síomha, Louise, and Doireann dive into anecdotes, personal stories and more, while seamlessly moving between Béarla and Gaeilge. Since its inception, ‘How to Gael’ has gone from strength to strength, and they have no plans in slowing down. The podcast has already hit many milestones, with its first live show taking place at Liberty Hall last April. This was the first time that Síomha, Louise, and Doireann were able to meet their listeners, and they celebrated an electric night chatting and sharing stories. “I’ll never forget that night,” Síomha reminisces. ‘How to Gael’ made their EP debut in the summer of 2024 and they also became the first-ever live podcast to perform at Dingle’s Other Voices music festival.
In 2025 they are taking their podcast on the road for a series of shows across Ireland and the US, including a stop at Galway’s Róisín Dubh on March 6th, tickets are available now on roisindubh.net. Chatting about their upcoming tour, Síomha says; “It’s wild. We actually can’t believe it ourselves. We are going to 5 different venues in Ireland and then 3 venues across the Atlantic; Vancouver, Boston and New York. I’ve never even been to New York before, so the fact that my podcast has allowed that - I just think it is amazing.” With the tour and other exciting plans already set in motion, 2025 is going to be the year that takes ‘How to Gael’ to new heights. Manifesting for the year ahead, Síomha shares that she would love to get semi-Gaeilgoir Paul Mescal to join them on the podcast too.
I feel like How to Gael is kind of the gateway drug to the Irish language community” “
“We are very aware that we are still at the beginning of the podcast journey and we really want to perfect our craft and make it a perfect podcast. A community that people can rejoin every week and come back to listen to and feel that familiarity with us. The sky is the limit with this podcast, we feel that we have only scratched the surface.”
If you want to learn/improve your Gaeilge, Síomha has loads of amazing suggestions. She recommends checking out the events website peig.ie, listening to Irish language podcasts like Béo ar Éigean, and tuning into radio stations such as Raidió na Gaeltachta, Raidió Rí-Rá, and Raidió na Life. Tuning into TG4’s full range of programmes is also a must! “I feel like How to Gael is kind of the gateway drug to the Irish language community. We are enticing people in, but then you really need to polish up on it yourself.” She also swears by finding a Gaeilge buddy to practice with. “If you don’t have any options to use it, you will lose it. So, find a pal who will embark on this Gaeilge journey with you - starting in 2025 and ending in eternity.”
With Valentine’s Day right around the corner, we naturally had to get Síomha’s suggestion for a pick-up line as Gaeilge. Her choice?
“A great one is ‘Ar mhaith leat bheith curtha le mo mhuintir?’ That means, ‘Would you like to be buried with my people?’ It actually is romantic when you think about it because you are thinking longterm here. So, even though it’s a bit dark, there’s a very romantic undertone.”
For more incredible advice, craic, and gossip, tune into all that Síomha has going on @howtogael on Instagram and book your place at one of their upcoming live podcasts.
7 | Síomha Ní Ruairc
For the first edition of Where to? in 2025, we are sharing some of our favourite Galway attractions. These destinations should be on your radar when you’re planning a holiday in the year ahead, so dive in and get planning. Advanced booking is advised!
Hop aboard a sigHt-seeing cruise
Dubbed a hidden gem of Galway city, the Corrib Princess boat tours will take you on a historical sightseeing tour right up to the majestic Lough Corrib. The route they follow is the same one once travelled by Viking invaders and Victorian steamboats. On the tour, your captain will tell you stories from Galway’s ancient past, Celtic mythology, and tales of Galway’s feuding families, who once lived in the castles you’ll spot along your way. Tours are available from May to September, Tuesday to Sunday at 12.30pm and 2.30pm.
Explore a beautiful islE off the west coast
The unique Inishbofin Island is only a 30-minute ferry crossing from Cleggan in North Connemara. For such a small isle, there is so much to experience. From the phenomenal landscapes and sea views to the delicious local food and drink scene, we are certain that you’ll absolutely love your time exploring Inishbofin. It is also packed with interesting historical landmarks, including a stone fort known as Cromwell’s Barracks, and is one of the few places in Ireland where a blowhole can be seen. The annual Inishbofin Arts Festival will take place this year on May 2nd to 4th.
Visit Connemara’s only show minE
Offering visitors a chance to experience a tour like no other, the Glengowla Mines & Family Farm Experience in Oughterard is run by Keith Geoghegan, whose family has lived and worked on the land for generations. Since the farm opened as a visitor centre in 1998, they have welcomed visitors to explore the rich mining heritage in Connemara. During your visit, you can watch a sheep-herding display, receive a turf-cutting demonstration, and go on an underground mine tour, which will take you into the lives of the miners who once worked there.
see a remarkable part of inis Oirr’s history
In 1960, the MV Plassey was caught in a storm, crashing into Finnis Rock and before being swept onto Inis Oirr by the wind. At the time, it was carrying a (literal) boatload of whiskey, stained glass, and yarn as well the 11 crew members, who were rescued thanks to the courageous islanders. The remains of The Plassey Shipwreck have since become a symbol of the island’s community spirit, and became recognisable worldwide after appearing in the opening sequence of the comedy series Father Ted. A beautiful photo opportunity and a stunning vantage point, it is well worth a visit.
Find a local hidden gem
Woodville House in Kilchreest is home to a beautiful restored walled garden, and a museum which outlines the fascinating connection between the D’Arcy family (one of the Galway Tribes) and Lady Augusta Gregory, née Persse. The Woodville walled gardens span 1.5 acres and contain fruit trees, a rose garden, colourful herbs, and a serene water fountain. Another unique feature includes a surviving dovecote, one of the few remaining ‘garden follies’ in the West of Ireland, now home to a family of white fantail doves.
Words by Gráinne Thornton
Illustrations by Áine Keaveney
Alex Bourke
The Joy of Food and the Community it Nourishes
Interview by Gráinne Thornton
Photos by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Head Chef at Bierhaus, creator of sharing-style pop-up events, and self-confessed pickle addict! Alex Bourke had a great 2024, and this year is set to be even bigger.
If you’ve been to the Bierhaus on Henry Street (if you haven’t, you must), you’ll know that extensive beer offerings and bespoke cocktails are only half the story. Inside this cosy yet vibrant Westend bar is where Alex’s kitchen is really creating a stir. What strikes you most is that here is a menu curated by someone who cares not just about what’s on the plate, but also about the people who eat it. Behind the scenes, Alex collaborates with Bierhaus’ owner, Jack Considine, and fellow chef Santiago Amozurrutia, and it’s a dynamic that continues to thrive. Food that not only tastes great but is tailored for everyone. The menu here is completely vegetarian, with gluten-free and vegan options. While their spicebag quesadilla is a dish close to Alex’s heart (especially when paired with a glass of Grüner), menu staples such as the to-die-for smash burger and the now locally famous grilled cheese are devoured on a daily basis.
For Alex her love of cooking and food began at home. Coming from a family of chefs in Cork, Alex remembers growing up in a lively kitchen, with her mother cooking and food all around her. “My mom is class. She is a chef, had a cookery school and did catering. I was always in the kitchen with her.” When Alex first announced her intention to become a chef, her family tried to deter her by placing her in a busy kitchen during a rush, but unperturbed by the noise, Alex showed up the next day with a newfound love of the work. After completing her college course, travelling around the world, and working in Éan for a year, Alex landed in Bierhaus in the summer of 2023 on a part-time schedule - and well, the rest is history. “I was meant to be there part-time and then just got into it, and I love it. It’s one of the nicest jobs I’ve had. [Jack] is a great boss, and there is a great team in there. We all just get on really well.” Laughing, she adds; “we get on so well that it doesn’t really feel that much like a job.”
Last year, Alex collaborated with Stephen Clohessy, who is a chef in Rúibín, to run a series of family-style food pop-ups named Tine, that ‘brought together Stephen’s obsession with fire and Alex’s love of all things fresh and pickled.’ Tine, meaning ‘fire’ in Irish, evokes a sense of coming together around the hearth to converse and share good food. It’s a spontaneous gathering of the soundest people you’ve ever met, snugly packed around tables, with plates of increasingly appetising dishes laid out in front of them. There’s an infectious atmosphere as locals sit side by side, rubbing shoulders with strangers, all of them caught up in the joy of communal dining, where no dish goes unshared. At the forefront, Alex, Stephen, and staff watch on as exclamations of ‘This is amazing! Here, you have to try it!’ are called out, and plates are passed back and forth.
Speaking of her experiences with these pop-up events, Alex says; “I kept saying that I want it to be about community, and I want it to feel very communal, like you are in a bit of a hub, and for it to be fun. One of the girls said to me as she was leaving the pop-up ‘I just felt like I was in a community’, and the minute she said that, I was like, ‘I’ve done it!’ That was the big thing about it. If we can create a vibe and get a buzz going, then that’s all I want.”
After a busy year working in the kitchen in Bierhaus, and curating new menus for special pop-up events, in 2025, Alex Bourke will be bringing Galway a feast of bold new flavours, with plenty more surprises to follow. Visit Bierhaus at 2 Henry Street in Galway City to enjoy Alex’s cooking, and follow the latest updates from Alex’s work at Bierhaus at @ bierhausgalway.
EYRE SQUARE EYRE SQUARE
Nuachtán Gaeilge - An Paipéar Nuacht Duitse Gach Seachtain
Coinnigh suas leis an nuacht is déanaí as Gaeilge leis An Páipéar!
Fáilte go dtí An Páipéar, nuachtán Gaeilge seachtainiúil atá ar fáil i bhfoirm chlóite agus i bhfoirm dhigiteach, agus é dírithe ar phobal na Gaeilge agus na Gaeltachta. Tar éis briseadh fada ó 2013, tá nuachtán iomlán Gaeilge clóite ar ais chun an nuacht is déanaí a chur ar fáil duit go seachtainiúil.
Clúdaíonn An Páipéar: Mórscéalta agus nuacht náisiúnta / Polaitíocht, oideachas agus scéalta idirnáisiúnta / Nuacht agus imeachtaí Gaeilge / Tuairimíocht, litreacha, agus eagarfhocal / Spórt, stair, agus béaloideas / Léamhthuiscint / Crosfhocail, amhráin Ghaeilge, agus sceideal teilifíse. Agus go leor leor eile!
An fhís atá againn ná go mbeidh an nuachtán den scoth seo á léamh ag gach Gael agus dalta agus go mbeidh An Páipéar mar lárphointe do nuacht na bpobal sin.
Beidh an nuachtán ar fáil i ngach siopa agus i ngach scoil go luath! Tuilleadh eolais ag anpáipéar.ie.
Irish-Language Newspaper - An Páipéar News for You Every Week
Stay up to date with the latest news in Irish with An Páipéar!
Welcome to An Páipéar, a new weekly Irish-language newspaper available in both print and digital formats, aimed at Irish-speaking and Gaeltacht communities. After a long gap since 2013, a full Irish-language print newspaper is back to bring you the latest news every week.
An Páipéar covers: Major stories and national news / Politics, education and international stories / Irish-language news and events / Opinion pieces, letters, and editorials / Sports, history, and folklore / Reading Comprehension / Crosswords, Irish songs and TV schedules. And much more!
Our vision is that this high-quality newspaper will be read by every Irish speaker and student, becoming a central hub for news in these communities.
The newspaper will soon be available in every shop and school! Find more information at anpáipéar.ie.
Ceannaigh inniu!
The Twelve Hotel
Galway’s Most Coveted Destination Hotel
Feature
Gráinne Thornton
Tucked away in the picturesque village of Barna, just a stone’s throw from Galway’s vibrant city centre, The Twelve Hotel is redefining Irish hospitality with an unmistakable flair. Equal parts cosy retreat and culinary haven, this awardwinning boutique hotel is more than just a place to stay—it’s an experience to savour.
Every corner of The Twelve Hotel echoes elegance, from its thoughtfully curated rooms to the bespoke touches that make each stay unforgettable. Whether you’re embarking on a Wild Atlantic Way adventure or indulging in a romantic weekend escape, there’s a room for every traveller—and every whim. For families, the Marvellous Family Suite offers a home-away-from-home vibe, while couples will adore the indulgence of the Funnymoon Suite. And for those seeking the ultimate in luxury, the Suite X11 promises a true VIP experience.
by
Photos courtesy The Twelve Hotel
Even four-legged friends are pampered here, thanks to the hotel’s five-star pet programme, making The Twelve one of Ireland’s most pet-friendly getaway. With Valentine’s Day just around the corner, their special “Valentine’s Love” packages are tailor-made for romance. Think champagne on arrival, bespoke chocolates, and intimate dinners for two. It’s the perfect way to celebrate Valentine’s Day with your favourite plus one.
Onsite, The Twelve Hotel’s dining options are a masterclass in modern Irish cuisine, with each venue offering a distinct experience. At Blackthorn Restaurant (set to relaunch with a dazzling new menu), grilled specialties and locally sourced delights take centre stage. For something more casual, Pins Gastro Bar serves up crowd-pleasing dishes with a creative twist, while Pizza Dozzina brings the charm of an authentic Italian pizzeria to Galway. And no visit is complete without a bite from Meltd 2.0, where the city’s most decadent toasties are crafted to perfection.
The new developments to The Twelve are a welcomed change. Pins Gastro Bar’s Head Chef Richard Kitt sums it up best: “It’s so refreshing as a chef to be in an establishment that really prioritises the development of its food operations, offering and culture.” He continues, “they go the extra mile here from allowing us our own creative freedom, never wavering on higher quality ingredients from artisan suppliers and even establishing a 4-day work week so we can all have balance in our lives.” With a commitment to local artisans and an eye for innovation, dining at The Twelve Hotel is a feast for the senses. Trust us!
If you’ve just spent your day exploring Galway’s enchanting city streets or magnificent coastlines, then treating yourself to some relaxation in the Twelve’s spa sanctuary, Le Petit Spa, is exactly what the doctor ordered. Here, guests can indulge in a tailored spa experience featuring therapies from VOYA and Image Skincare, both renowned for their transformative benefits! From detoxifying seaweed baths to restorative massages, every treatment is curated to leave you feeling refreshed and renewed.
Spa Manager Rachael Larkin explains the benefits of their signature products saying; “The seaweed used in VOYA products, helps to detoxify the skin, along with the aromatic properties of the products to enhance the overall spa experience, promoting relaxation and reducing stress.” Adding that, “Image Skincare uses cuttingedge technology to address various skin concerns, from aging and pigmentation to acne and dehydration.” At Le Petit Spa, it’s pampering at its finest. For all spa bookings and enquiries, call them on 091 597 000 or email lepetitspa@thetwelvehotel.ie.
The Twelve Hotel is not just a place to stay— it’s a destination in itself. With its blend of modern luxury, culinary excellence, and heartfelt hospitality, it’s little wonder that this boutique gem is a favourite among discerning travellers. Visit thetwelvehotel.ie for exclusive offers, updates, and a glimpse of what awaits. And don’t forget to follow along on social media @thetwelvehotel to be inspired for your next Galway escape.
Údarás na Gaeltachta
Is é caomhnú agus láidriú na Gaeilge mar theanga bheo, le cois í a thabhairt mar oidhreacht don chéad ghlúin eile, an bunchuspóir atá le polasaí Údarás na Gaeltachta. Déanann an tÚdarás gach iarracht an cuspóir seo a bhaint amach trí fhorbairt fiontraíochta agus tionscnaimh chruthaithe fostaíochta a chothú agus a mhaoiniú, chomh maith le tacaíocht a thabhairt d’imeachtaí pobail, cultúrtha agus teangabhunaithe.
The preservation and strengthening of Irish as a living language, as well as passing it on to the next generation is our primary objective. We strive to achieve this objective by fostering enterprise development and employment and supporting community, cultural and language-based events.
An cuspóir straitéiseach atá ag an Údarás i ngeall ar an réimse forbartha oideachais agus oiliúna ná cur le bunús agus caighdeán scileanna mhuintir na Gaeltachta. Is féidir tuilleadh eolais a fháil ar na deiseanna seo thíos agus neart eile ag udaras.ie/oiliuint-fostaiocht/oiliuint
Scéim Scoláireachta do Phrintísigh
Tá Scéim Scoláireachta do phrintísigh á reáchtáil ag Údarás na Gaeltachta le tacú le hiarrthóirí Gaeltachta le líofacht sa Ghaeilge cáilíocht a bhaint amach in aon cheann de na Scéimeanna Printíseachta Caighdeán bunaithe atá aitheanta ag SOLAS.
Iarratais oscailte: 10 Feabhra - 7 Márta
Glasoiliúint
Scéim Tacaíochta Oiliúna píolóta é Glasoiliúint chun tacú le ceardaithe agus daoine proifisiúnta Gaeltachta atá ag iarraidh scileanna a uasdátú nó scileanna nua a fhoghlaim i réimse dá gcuid oibre a bhaineann le caomhnú fuinnimh nó i dteicneolaíochtaí fuinnimh in-athnuaite.
Iarratais oscailte: 10 Márta - 4 Aibreán
CUMASÚ
Clár tacaíochta dírithe ar bhanfhiontraithe sa Ghaeltacht, á chur ar fáil ag Údarás na Gaeltachta, i gcomhpháirt leis an gclár EMPOWER, atá á reáchtáil ag Moil Nuálaíochta Ollscoil Teicneolaíochta an Atlantaigh (ATU).
Iarratais oscailte: Faoi láthair - Lár mhí an Mhárta
The Community behi
Meet Olivia Lavelle of Liv Vintage
The rails of designer vintage clothing are wall-to-wall at Liv Vintage Studio. On a sunny day, light seeps in through the windows, and warms the mid-century modern interior. The furniture is chic, the atmosphere is magical and the ethos is powerful. All curated from studio owner Olivia’s (aka Liv’s) personal collection of bits and pieces, Liv Vintage Studio is more than just a stunning vintage space, it’s a community of creativity and authenticity in the heart of Galway City.
With a resounding desire to build up a community in Galway, Liv has focused this directly into the studio to create the space we know and love today. One year in, Liv Vintage Studio is changing the way we interact with clothes, as well as one another.
“I want to explain why I’m obsessed with building this community,” says Liv. “It’s not about me, or anything when it comes to community. It’s not an individualistic approach at all.” With a background in psychology and marketing, Liv channels her expertise into the studio offering one-to-one styling sessions with her collection of vintage clothes. “A lot of the time, some of the best moments and the best photographs, the best memories, the best feelings, have been just playing with clothes. It’s more than having someone pick your clothes… you get to be seen.”
behind the Cloth
Photo credit - Caoimhe Hughes
Interview by Chloe Richardson
Photo above by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Part of community is that you can take and give, be loyal, and build support.
Armed with her impressive background in the world of fashion as a stylist for Max Mara, a manager at Brown Thomas as well as studying adaptable fashion design in Berlin, Liv is by all means an expert when it comes to styling. “Before I was a mam I worked in fashion… Now I’m back with a marketing plan to launch my own brand. In the meantime I work on styling for photo shoots, content creation and working one to one with clients on their wardrobe… it seems like I’m reinventing myself in my 40s but actually I’m going back to what I was working towards before I became a mam.”
As well as offering styling services, Liv Vintage Studio is open to the public for events, creative projects and everything in between. The studio has honed in on something truly special encapsulated in Galway’s culture: a vibrant desire for people to come together and create with and support one another.
Liv shares, “I’ve got that old lady cringe going on but I’m okay to be cringe. It’s unmasked, authentic and it’s way more fun to just be yourself and at my age - be it unapologetically.”
If you’re interested in booking in with Liv to discover the world of creativity unlocked with clothes you can find the studio at 3 Lower Cross Street in the Latin Quarter. “You get to see what it’s like to play with clothes! Working with a stylist is like working with a bestie, it’s next level.”
This February to celebrate 1 year open, Liv Vintage Studio has an incredible lineup of events planned for the entire first week of the month. “We’re going to have men’s styling, we have a shop coming from Dublin that specialises in plus sized clothes, we have a queer day, and a Celtic Mother’s Day.” With all the exciting events we’re getting ready for in 2025, Liv Vintage is the community space we’ve needed.
Liv shares, “Part of community is that you can take and give, be loyal, and build support. Give it today, take it tomorrow. In the past, it would have been a community in a village, tribe, or religion. And now it’s a collection of clothes!”
Follow the studio on Instagram @ livvintage.studio to keep up-to-date with any events, or book online at livvintage.studio
a new dInIng experIence
Is comIng to the twelve hotel thIs early sprIng
An exciting new dining experience is coming to The Twelve Hotel very soon, led by the talented Head Chef Nathan Hindmarsh.
Blackthorn will take you on an innovative culinary journey inspired by the elements—land, fire, and sea—celebrating the finest Irish local produce in every dish.
Complementing this is an extensive selection of wines, including organic options, carefully curated by our sommelier, Fergal Guiney.
We look forward to welcoming you soon for an unforgettable experience.
Brought to you talented Head Blackthorn will journey through organic wine
Galway’s vibrant new hub for Mexican Cuisine and Culture
by Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Taquila is Galway City’s newest and most exciting venture into traditional Mexican cuisine. A brilliant fusion of irresistible food, lively atmosphere and undeniably fantastic service, this is a dining experience you can’t miss out on. With an immense range of cuisine, Taquila is dedicated to bringing the best flavours of Mexico to Galway.
For owners Carlos and Melissa Melendez, Taquila is the next step on a wonderful adventure together as husband and wife. Since their opening in 2024, the authentic Mexican restaurant has introduced new and bold flavours to Galway. The menu has been carefully crafted by one of Carlos’ childhood best friends from Mexico and Head Chef, Andres Zubizarreta. Carlos shares, “Working with Andres is unreal… When I had my [previous] restaurants back in Mexico he did the menus there as well!”
The menu at Taquila is as unique as it is delicious; here you can try a fantastic range of tacos and salsas. Try the Cochinita Pibil, a succulent slow-cooked pork, which is then served with pickled onions and refried beans. You can also opt for what’s deemed as the ‘ultimate Mexican comfort food’, Chilaquiles, which consist of crispy tortilla chips, smothered in salsa verde, and topped with frijoles and queso fresco.
33 | TAQUILA
Interview by Chloe Richardson
Photos
As it is with most passions we pour our hearts into, Melissa shares that the reception to Taquila has been both nerveracking as well as affirming. “People have an expectation of what Mexican food is… I’ve been a little bit scared about whether they’ll understand the menu. So it’s been amazing to see people take to it, and love it, and want to eat it…”
Coupled with an amazing food menu is a masterfully crafted cocktail list. From topquality margaritas to tropical indulgences this cocktail menu is one of the best in town.
Inside, Taquila is a beautifully vibrant restaurant. With brilliant star light fixtures handcrafted in Mexico hanging from the ceiling and neon signs illuminating the walls, this is a space that is striking and inviting in equal measure. “I think atmosphere is just as important as food,” Melissa shares. “[Carlos’] restaurants have always been a meeting place for friends and family, and it’s great to see that reach out into Galway as well.”
Carlos says that at present, “what we’re really focusing on is establishing ourselves in Galway… Having the end product with the menu, we’re still finding that core menu we want to have.” With plenty of exciting things happening in now and in the future, Taquila is definitely one to check out in 2025.
Situated on Eglinton Street in the heart of Galway’s City Centre, Taquila is serving up a classic menu of Mexican favourites with a distinct modern flare. Be sure to try their irresistible tacos and cocktails yourself, and check out their website at taquila.ie and their Instagram @taquilagalway!
Tell us about yourself...
My name is Anthony Collins. I grew up in Old Mervue, and served my apprenticeship as a cabinet maker in T. O’Higgins in Shantalla. I started working in the Galway City Council in ‘99, where I am now a craft foreman. One of my hobbies is collecting vinyl records, and I also DJ at some venues around Galway’s Westend.
What do you love about your job?
I have a great team working with me, and it’s always great to see the joy on people’s faces when they move into a new home.
Favourite place for a night out in Galway + why?
The Blue Note. They have the best music, an intimate dance floor, and everyone is sound.
A place in Galway that everyone needs to visit?
Old Mervue.
Favourite piece of Galway slang? Howya Loveen.
Photography:
Ciarán MacChoncarraige
What time of year is your favourite + why?
Christmas, because of the vibe around Galway. The lights are pretty spectacular, everyone is in great form, the holidays, and hot toddies.
What’s your connection to Galway? The Anthony Collins Bridge.
What makes Galway stand out in the crowd?
The people. The charm. It’s the perfect size for getting around. We have the best bars, restaurants and live music, hands down. Everyone is pure sound too.
What’s the most romantic thing you’ve done on Valentine’s Day?
Brought someone to Supermac’s.
What’s your perfect Paddy’s Day? Hiding away from the madness.
Tell us a secret...
Myself and Moodymanc (aka Danny Ward) are releasing a double sided 12inch vinyl this spring, titled OMEV1, Old Mervue Edits Vol 1. I spent every second weekend last summer in Whalley Range Manchester, in Danny’s studio. I do vocals on one of the tracks. Keith Marshall from 3345records.ie is helping out with the pressing and promotion, and Jarlath Tourish from the West End Art Collective is doing the logo.
Up Mervue.
Visit Some of East Galway’s Hidden Gems
Nestled in the scenic landscapes of East Galway lie two remarkable treasures that embody the region’s rich history and culture: Brackloon Castle and the Irish Workhouse Centre. These lesser-known landmarks offer visitors a captivating journey into Ireland’s historic past, and an insight into the lives of the people who lived here.
Brackloon Castle: A Medieval Gem Reimagined
Brackloon Castle is one of Ireland’s smallest surviving medieval castles still in use today. Located in a tranquil corner of East Galway, this castle is not just a relic of the past but a thriving family home. Under the leadership of its custodians, Donal and Alison, visitors are welcomed into a truly unique experience that blends five centuries of history with the warmth of modern Irish hospitality.
A private, two-hour tour takes guests on an intimate exploration of the castle’s five floors, each telling stories of its turbulent 500-year past and careful restoration. Starting at the kitchen table, visitors enjoy tea and refreshments while hearing about the O’Madden clan - the castle’s original builders- who ruled the area for hundreds of years until the mid-1600s.
As guests ascend the original narrow spiral stone staircase, they encounter fascinating defensive features from the 16th and 17th centuries, including gunholes that once protected the castle from invaders and now serve as a safe haven for nesting birds. These tours culminate on the battlements, which offer sweeping views of the surrounding countryside.
The upper room of the castle features a surprising highlight. Here, visitors gather around an open fireplace as Donal and Alison share tales of the castle’s restoration journey, creating an unforgettable atmosphere of warmth and authenticity. For anyone seeking a hands-on, personal look back into Galway’s medieval history, Brackloon Castle is an unmissable gem! For more information, visit their website bracklooncastleandfarm.com to begin planning your Brackloon Castle experience.
Brackloon Castle - Clonfert, Ballinasloe, Co. Galway, H53 Y8C7
The Irish Workhouse Centre: A Window into the Past
On the outskirts of Portumna town, the Irish Workhouse Centre offers a stark and profoundly moving guided tour of Ireland’s most complete and bestpreserved workhouse. It provides an unflinching look at the hardships endured by Galway’s poor during and after the Great Famine, all within the authentic setting of a real workhouse.
The guided tour takes visitors through a series of buildings that paint a vivid picture of what life was like in a 19th-century workhouse. Visitors will explore the boardroom, waiting hall, women’s dormitory, nursery, matron’s quarters, dining hall & chapel, girl’s schoolroom and laundry building.
Highlights of the tour include the workhouse museum, which features a holographic projection recounting the disappearance of the harsh Workhouse Master Ogle with workhouse funds in 1865, and the haunting ‘Dark Shadows’, a famine-themed sculpture exhibit by Kieran Tuohy. Visitors may also view artist David Rooney’s famine-themed artwork, permanently displayed in the entrance hall.
Visit their website irishworkhousecentre.ie to learn more.
Together, Brackloon Castle and the Irish Workhouse Centre offer visitors a chance to connect with East Galway’s history. From the cosy charm of a restored medieval home to the solemn structure of the Irish workhouse, these hidden gems provide a rich tapestry of Ireland’s heritage waiting to be explored.
The Irish Workhouse Centre - Portumna, Co. Galway, H53 EK74
Fine Dining Restaurant
Combines traditional Irish cuisine with a warm, contemporary atmosphere, complemented by a selection of Ahascragh Distillery’s finest whiskeys and gin.
Cúirt International Festival of Literature turns 40!
Feature photo by Bríd O’Donovan
Additional photography by Emilijia Jefremova
“Over the last 40 years, Cúirt has played host to hundreds of writers, poets and performers, and entertained and inspired thousands of people from Galway and around the world. We’re looking forward to celebrating all the people that have played a part in our history, in the memories and ideas formed in our theatres, cafes, pubs and streets. And hopefully creating many more for the years to come.”
- Festival Director Manuela Moser shares her thoughts on 40 years of Cúirt.
Featuring an array of some of the most exciting Irish and international writers at work today, the 40th Cúirt International Festival of Literature will take place in Galway from Tuesday 8th - Sunday 13th April. Spanning over 50 events, the programme includes poetry, fiction, memoir, non-fiction, masterclasses & workshops, exhibitions, and family events.
43 | Cúirt
This year’s edition of Cúirt Festival will centre the theme of celebration, showcasing a range of stellar writing talent, alongside a special programme of commemorative events, such as interactive archival projects and the revival of the Cúirt Annual Lecture. A lineup of leading Irish and international writers will be announced at the programme launch on February 19th. The festival has also revealed a double billing of Booker Prize winners, with Anne Enright and Roddy Doyle taking centre stage. Further star novelists will be revealed at the launch. Galway City will welcome writers from across the globe, as the programme promises leading literary voices from both Ireland and beyond.
Ahead of this year’s milestone festival, we spoke with members of the festival’s advisory panel (from both past and present), who each have their own relationship with Cúirt. Writer and editor John Patrick McHugh, poet, novelist, and playwright Elaine Feeney, and poet Eva Bourke, have all attended the festival both as participating artists and as enthusiastic festivalgoers.
Reflecting on Cúirt Festival’s 40-year journey, Eva Bourke tells us, “Festivals appear and vanish. The fact that Cúirt has kept going for so long is due to its consistently high quality over forty years and the dedication of the organisers, the committees, funders and directors. It’s a good reason for celebration, and I am looking forward to this year’s edition.” Adding to this, Elaine Feeney comments, “We’re living in very strange and unsettling times, and I believe literature is more important now than ever.” She continues, “For audiences in the West of Ireland, having a festival like Cúirt is vital—we are a university town, and have lots of budding creatives, so it’s a space where ideas are shared, voices are heard, and creativity is celebrated. Its impact on the literary community and beyond cannot be overstated.”
Galway writer John Patrick McHugh explains that every edition of Cúirt provides “a chance for the local and international to mingle in Galway, for writers and readers to meet,and an opportunity for ideas to be exchanged and heard. It is always a warm and friendly festival with a nice level of devilment and fun alongside the obvious cultural riches.” As a member of this year’s panel and his novel Fun and Games set for release on April 24th, this year’s festival is especially near and dear to John Patrick McHugh. “Having long enjoyed going to events and discovering new writers and books, it will be a true honour and privilege to be taking part in the 40th edition of this famous and brilliant festival,” he says.
This year’s festival programme is unique because it not only celebrates the journey of Cúirt so far, but looks ahead to spotlight new emerging literary talents. Elaine Feeney teases,“Manuela Moser and the Cúirt team have been curating a lineup of diverse, engaging, and dynamic events over the past couple of years, and this year is no exception.” Speaking of her own festival favourites, Elaine says that, “I always enjoy the showcase events—they’re an incredible opportunity to hear fresh, emerging voices. Poetry is always a highlight for me, and, of course, the postevent pints and conversations are just as lively and inspiring!”
Cúirt International Festival of Literature is supported by its principal funders, the Arts Council, Galway City Council and Galway County Council. Tickets for all events are on sale from February 19th at cuirt.ie or through the Town Hall Theatre on 091569 777.
what’s Going on?
As Galway’s events calendar fills up with an eclectic mix of theatrical shows, festivals, and music performances, there is an amazing entertainment programme planned for the months ahead. If you want a snapshot of everything happening this February and March, well, you’ve come to the right place. Check out the highlights;
In spring 2025, Druid Theatre are hitting the road once more for an 11-venue national tour of Three Short Comedies by Seán O’Casey - ‘A Pound on Demand’, ‘Bedtime Story’, ‘The End of the Beginning’. In Galway (Mar 25th-29th), these classic rip-roaring one-act plays will run at the Town Hall Theatre. This new national tour marks the beginning of Druid’s 50th anniversary programme in 2025. By using scaled models as well as bunraku and shadow puppetry, Blue Raincoat Theatre will present The Last Pearl for one night only (Feb 13th) at Town Hall Theatre. This moving theatrical performance tells the story of a pearl diver and her daughter as they scavenge in a dying world. It is the story of their ability to adapt to a changing environment and ultimately survive.
This February 14th and 15th, Livin’ Dred are bringing a riotous new production of J.M. Synge’s masterpiece The Playboy of the Western World, to Galway’s Mick Lally Theatre in a staging that crackles with wit, heroism, humor, and a touch of the absurd. ‘The Playboy of the Western World’ is a comic delight and a lyrical exploration of the power of storytelling and the dangerous allure of fame, in a small rural village where strict morality and simmering, raw desires collide. On February 12-14th, SamePage Theatre’s 10th production The Approach is coming to stage at the Town Hall Studio. A play about being human, an exploration of betrayal, and an appeal to listen before it’s too late. What are the three characters hiding? And, most importantly, what will they reveal?
March 17th is (as we are sure you already know) St Patrick’s Day and while there will be tons of events and family-friendly activities taking place across both city and county, this year get your 2025 celebrations started by joining HYDE Bar for their Best of Irish Disco brunch on the 16th. The whole venue will be up dancing a jig to some of the most iconic songs from the greatest artists our country has ever produced, while culinary experts prepare a main course brunch made with flair and skill. Sláinte! Additionally, if you really want to kick off your St Patrick’s Day celebrations early, Annie Mac returns to Galway after her incredible show at GIAF 2024 to bring audiences Before Midnight live at Leisureland on March 15th. ‘Before Midnight’ is an inclusive clubbing night for anyone who enjoys a lengthy DJ set, but still likes to be in bed at a reasonable hour, with the event wrapping up… well, before midnight.
When the Moon Spun Round is a wonderfully dark and dreamy performance for young audiences with a beautiful display of aerial dance performed by Fidget Feet’s aerialists, entwined with Ceol Connected and Jym Daly’s melodic and enchanting airs. Showing at the Black Box Theatre on March 28th and 29th, this aerial show is fun for all ages and perfect for a family day out.
Don’t miss the incredible story of Cornelius Agrippa come to life in The Reincarnation of Cornelius Agrippa on February 24-28th at St Nicholas’ Collegiate Church. Based on historic events, this is the unbelievable story of the only witch trial the Inquisition lost. Picture it; 1519 in the town of Metz. The notorious Cornelius Agrippa succeeds in defending a condemned witch in court against the Inquisition, the only time in history this has ever happened..
And finally, the annual celebration of the life of comedian Dermot Morgan and his 1990s cult TV sitcom Father Ted, Tedfest is taking place on March 6-9th, on a small island in the Atlantic (Inis Mór to be exact). The festival features themed events associated with the comedy series including fancy dress, five-a-side football (nuns against priests), Toilet Duck comedy awards, and buckaroo speed dating. Other madness will ensue, so secure your attendance today for this blessed festival of craic!
This is a mere drop in the ocean of events that are organised for the upcoming months so visit our website at thisisgalway. ie/events/ to see everything Galway has to offer.
Words by Gráinne Thornton
Feature image By Ciarán MacChoncarraige
Photo by Ste Murray
Photo courtesy Ireland’s Content Pool
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COCKTAIL MAKING MASTERCLASS
DATE: 15TH FEBRUARY
LOCATION:
