This refers to the status given to the church in 1484 by the Archbishop of Tuam, and later confirmed by Papal Bull in 1485 from Pope Innocent VIII in Rome, allowing it to form a college of singing priests who would sing at all the Offices of the day – Matins, Vespers, Evensong, and so on.
No, the Cathedral of Our Lady Assumed into Heaven & St Nicholas is on the western banks of the river Corrib, shown here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/T9reagpJVyackwbaA
It was Roman Catholic church for around its first 300 years of its existence, and it has been Church of Ireland since the 1690s following the conclusion of the Williamite War in Ireland.
At more than 700 years old, the costs of keeping Galway’s oldest building in good repair and open to the public are enormous, and your entry fees are a vital part of allowing us to keep our doors open.
It is advised to allow 45 minutes for a visit, or an hour if you join on one of our tours.
Yes, your donations are most gratefully received either in person at the register, in one of the votive candle trolleys, or online at https://stnicholas.ie/online-collection-plate/
Parking is available for Sunday service worshippers only, on a first-come, first-served basis. There is one disabled parking bay available onsite for services. No other parking is provided.
Only in the summer months of May-Aug do we recommend booking in advance, otherwise you are welcome to pay upon arrival.
There is no formal dress code to visit the Church, although as a place of worship, we ask that all visitors wear suitable attire. We recommend that those climbing to the belfry or exploring the medieval graveyard wear comfortable footwear.
Feel free to take as many photos or videos as you like, though we ask that you do not use tripods, selfie sticks, or additional lighting. If you are filming, please do not narrate your clips, to avoid disturbing the quiet contemplation of worshippers around you.
The nave, aisles and south transept are all accessible via the South Door, which has a ramp. Access to the belfry, chancel, and medieval graveyard via steps.
Unfortunately not, our toilet is accessed up a pair of stone steps. This is something we are addressing, and we plan to install a universally accessible bathroom in coming years.
The church does not operate a left luggage facility.
Yes, our church is a nursing-safe space, and you are most welcome to feed your child wherever you like. If you would appreciate a more private area, please feel free to speak to the staff who can accommodate you.
Guide dogs and service dogs are most welcome, but no other pets are allowed.
Water is welcome, but if you have other drinks or food with you, we ask you to refrain from eating or drinking until your visit has concluded.
TIME by Luxmuralis
Visitor Information and Frequently Asked Questions
What can I expect at the event?
Where can I buy tickets?
Tickets can be purchased on www.tht.ie
Do I have to book tickets in advance?
Yes, prebooking is essential, there will be no tickets available on the door. Book in advance to avoid disappointment as we anticipate will be a popular event.
Can I enter the church earlier than my booked time slot?
Please aim to arrive at the church at your booked time slot. You will not be able to enter the church any earlier than your booked time slot. If you arrive early you will have to queue outside until your booked time slot. Please arrive 10-15 minutes before your ticketed entry time. Late arrivals will be accommodated in the next available timeslot, subject to capacity. Entry at your original booked time cannot be guaranteed if you arrive after your allocated slot.
Will I need to queue?
Visitors will need to queue outside the church to get in and will only be able to enter at the booked time slot on their ticket. The time on your ticket is the start of a 15-minute entry window. For example if your ticket says 7pm you will enter the cathedral between 7-7.15pm. Please dress warmly for the winter weather. If you arrive early you will have to queue outside until your booked time slot.
What do I need to show when I arrive?
Please show your QR code ticket when you arrive. You could print this out, or we also recommend taking a screenshot so that you don’t have to worry about phone signal when arriving.
Can I book on the day of the event?
Tickets must be booked in advance from www.tht.ie
I can’t make the event anymore, can I get a refund?
Tickets are non-refundable, and the date and time of a ticket cannot be altered after purchase.
Is this suitable for children?
The event is suitable for all ages. Pushchairs are welcome inside the church.
Is the event accessible for people with limited mobility?
Yes, the event is accessible for those with limited mobility. There is ramp access at the entrance and exit. Nearly all parts of the church are accessible. Please make yourself known to a steward (stewards will be in hi-vis clothing) if you require assistance.
In addition:
Other nearby drop-off locations include:
How do I get to the church?
Saint Nicholas’ Collegiate Church – Google Maps
Is there car parking nearby?
Parking in Galway City Parking in Galway City | Galway City Council
Private car parking options Parking in Galway
Can I take photos and video of the installation?
Yes, photography and video for personal use only. Luxmuralis do not permit photography or video of their work to be used for commercial gain. ‘Selfie-sticks’ can be used, but please be mindful of other visitors so that everyone is able to have the best experience. Tripods are not permitted.
What size bag can I bring?
Small rucksack-sized bags and smaller can be taken into the church. Large bags and suitcases cannot be brought inside the church, we do not have any luggage storage facilities.
Can I bring my dog?
Assistance dogs are welcome, but please don’t bring pets to this event as they will not be permitted.
Do you have toilets?
Yes, there will be Portaloo toilets including accessible toilets provided on the grounds of the church.
Is there anywhere to buy refreshments?
Yes. There are many wonderful local hotels, restaurants and cafes close to the church.
For further information about this event or the Gaillimh Ah-Boo programme of events: Home – Gaillimh AhBoo! | email Events@GalwayCity.ie
Take a tour of the church and walk through the ancient aisles with an historian, or climb the famous bell tower and ring the ancient bells for all of Galway to hear.
