Skip to content
The Hardiman, Galway

The Hardiman

Galway, Ireland

A Galway institution, The Hardiman (formerly the Hotel Meyrick) is set in a grand Victorian building overlooking the city's main square. It has been providing a tranquil retreat from the city for heads of state, writers, artists and actors since 1852. Inside, it retains a sense of period grandeur while offering all modern amenities.

Guests are met by a footman and led to a sweeping period-style lobby complete with a pianist while upstairs, rooms are decorated in a palette of rich hues, some in contemporary style, others exuding a classical elegance.

The informal Gaslight Bar & Brasserie offers lighter fare and cocktails while fine dining is available at No. 15 on the Square. Within minutes you can be on Galway's most picturesque pedestrian streets.

OUR OPINION:

A classically elegant property in the heart of Galway, this is a beautiful option.

OUR RATING: First Class

Speak to someone
who's been there
Audley Travel Specialist Lexi

Start planning your tailor-made trip by contacting one of our Ireland specialists

Rooms

Although all the rooms at The Hardiman are decorated with a palette of rich tones teamed with plush fabrics and elegant furnishings, they vary considerably in style. Some are more classical while others are designed with a more modern eye. A number of rooms at the hotel overlook Eyre Square, while some others have views of Galway Bay. All come with complimentary Wi-Fi, flat-screen TV and marble bathrooms. Suites have the most old-world charm with traditional sash windows, high ceilings, antique furniture and in some, separate bath and shower.

Location

Perched at the head of Eyre Square, The Hardiman is located in the heart of Galway. Just a short walk down the road you can find pedestrian streets lined with a host of cafés, restaurants shops and vibrant traditional pubs renowned for their live music. Nearby is the historic Spanish Arch and the Claddagh district. 

Food and drink

Exposed brick and photos on the walls give No. 15 on the Square a casual atmosphere in which to enjoy fine dining. Here, you can choose from a set or à la carte menu featuring a modern take on classic dishes. For cocktails and lighter fare, you can try the stylish Gaslight Bar & Brasserie with its wonderful freshly baked breads. 

Tour ideas in Galway

Our itineraries are there to spark ideas for how you could include a stay at The Hardiman as part of your trip. Treat them simply as suggestions, because every aspect of the trip we create for you will be yours to define.

Location & places nearby

Places & hotels on the map

    Alternative places to stay nearby

    Where possible, we like to offer a range of accommodation for each stop of your trip, chosen by our specialists as some of their favorite places to stay. To help you make the right choice, we give each property a rating based on its facilities and service, but we also look for hotels with distinct character or a location that can't be bettered.

    Experiences while staying here

    The following activities are designed to give you the most authentic experiences of the area where you're staying. We work with local guides, who use their knowledge and often a resident's eye to show you the main sights and more out-of-the-way attractions. Our specialists can also suggest outdoor pursuits and activities, such as cooking classes, that will introduce you to the traditions of the area's inhabitants.

    • Celtic revival tour
      Celtic symbol

      Celtic revival tour

      Celtic revival tour

      Follow the resurgence in Irish literary and esthetic tradition in the late 19th century as you tour a castle once owned by WB Yeats, the country estate of Lady Gregory and the beautiful Arts and Crafts cathedral in Loughrea.

      View details
    • Walking tour of Galway
      Galway

      Walking tour of Galway

      Walking tour of Galway

      Explore Galway, one of Ireland's most charming cities on foot with a local guide to get an insight into its long and remarkable history and its place as both a bastion of traditional culture and vibrant, bohemian city life.

      View details

    Galway and nearby places