Galway Fisheries Watchtower Museum

Historic Site in Galway

Watch Tower, River Corrib, Galway 30318018

CC BY-SA 2.0 / Ian Capper

The Galway Fisheries Watchtower Museum, which opened its doors to the public in 2015, is the result of an extensive restoration effort spearheaded by the Galway Civic Trust. Situated along the scenic River Corrib, the museum occupies a unique structure historically known as the Fishery Watchtower or the Tower Station. This distinctive building, the only one of its kind in Ireland, dates back to 1853 and was initially constructed by the Ashworth family as a draft netting station—a fishing method involving a net stretched across the river from shore to a small boat.

Beyond its original function for draft netting, the building served an important role as a surveillance point where fishery staff could monitor and curb illegal fishing activities along the river. However, as the years passed, the watchtower fell into disrepair and faced the threat of demolition before the restoration project revitalized this historic site.

Today, the Galway Fisheries Watchtower Museum has become a prominent attraction on Galway’s tourist trail. The museum features a compact exhibition space where visitors can explore fascinating artifacts, memorabilia, and photographs that chronicle Galway’s storied river fishing history. It offers stunning views of the River Corrib and The Claddagh, enhancing the visitor experience. The museum also showcases various riverine species, including five-year-old elvers and juvenile salmon, highlighting the rich biodiversity of the river. This charming site not only adds to the architectural grandeur of Galway but also enriches its cultural landscape, continuing to captivate both locals and tourists alike.

The Galway Fisheries Watchtower Museum appears in our Complete Guide to Visiting Galway!

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