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For a quick overnight in Galway, Ireland, I chose the moderately priced Skeffington Arms Hotel for its location within walking distance of Galway Coach Station. I was to arrive by bus solo from Dublin Airport, so my main priority was convenience, comfort, and safety for one night in this pedestrian-friendly city.
Turns out, this historic boutique hotel was ideal for my first overnight of what would be a two-week, multi-town stay in Ireland. Here’s the scoop:
Skeffington Arms Hotel Location
Indeed, the Skeffington Arms Hotel was a straightforward, 8-minute walk from the bus station. I arrived in the midafternoon and felt perfectly safe walking on my own, while dragging full-sized luggage, through town. I was delighted to find the hotel on a pedestrian-only street facing a bustling, green park square.
In fact, I’m not sure I could have found a better-located property. It sits on the edge of Galway’s pedestrian zone filled with shops, restaurants, and bars. I spent a couple of hours warding off jet lag just wandering the network of streets, taking in the sights. The front desk staff was particularly amiable and helpful in pointing out a scenic walking route to the town’s harbor.
The property is located in a 17th-century row building. It was established as a hotel in 1850, and its associated pub, known by locals as “The Skeff,” is among Galway’s oldest watering holes.
Skeffington Arms Hotel Rooms
Like most hotels in Europe, Skeffington Arms Hotel rooms aren’t spacious. My double room facing the pedestrian street and the town square was plenty big enough for me.
The double bed was comfy; I appreciated the supplied coffee/tea service and strong Wi-Fi in my room. The black-and-white modern bathroom had a nice long counter, a decently sized shower, and sufficient bath products. The hotel supplies a hair dryer, too.
Skeffington Arms Hotel Breakfast
By day, The Skeff bar turns into a cozy yet sophisticated breakfast nook with ornate woodwork, heavy drapes, and large historic paintings. This comfortable spot — accompanied by delicious food and friendly service — set the scene for the most lovely way to start the day in a storied Irish city.
You can book a room only at Skeffington Arms, but I’d suggest the “bed and breakfast” option. The morning meal is where this property shines, with an a la carte menu and continental buffet.
I opted to order a “mini Irish breakfast” — one sausage, one piece of bacon, black pudding, white pudding, hash brown, and baked beans — since I knew I’d want to enjoy some of the fruit, pastries, cereal from the buffet. Toast and tea or coffee come with every morning meal.
A Note About The Skeff’s Live Music
I was a little concerned that Skeffington Arms provides earplugs in every room. I believe they are offered to guests because of the hotel’s location above the popular bar that offers live music nightly. However, I didn’t hear the music at all through the night. Perhaps it was because I was terribly tired after an international journey, but, as a light sleeper, I was pleased to sleep soundly — even with music scheduled into the wee hours (some nights, DJs don’t start until midnight).
The Skeff Bar + Kitchen is certainly a lively spot. I swung by for a draft cider before bed after listening to trad tunes in town (so many live music venues!) and found it hopping. “Bar food” and “light bites” are offered in the afternoon through the evening.
The Bottom Line
I heartily recommend the historic Skeffington Arms Hotel for a short stay in Galway’s city center. Rooms start at €120 a night; triple rooms with three single beds are available. A two-bedroom apartment might be appropriate for a family’s longer stay. You can also check rates on Booking.com which has good deals in Europe.
Review and photos by Kara Williams.
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