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Martin Tea-House Folly: A Whimsical Riverside Retreat

Discover the enchanting Martin Tea-House Folly in Galway, a historical landmark offering tranquility and scenic views on the River Corrib.

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The Martin Tea-House Folly, a charming 19th-century structure, graces the banks of the River Corrib on the University of Galway campus. Built in the Gothic Revival style, this folly offers a glimpse into the lives of the Martin family and provides a tranquil spot to enjoy the scenery.

A brief summary to Martin Tea-House Folly

  • N.U.I,, Galway, Dangan, IE
  • Monday 5 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 5 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 5 am-12 am
  • Thursday 5 am-12 am
  • Friday 5 am-12 am
  • Saturday 5 am-12 am
  • Sunday 5 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and avoid crowds.
  • Take a stroll around the university grounds to fully appreciate the beauty of the folly's location.
  • The tea-house is particularly enchanting during the spring and summer months when the flowers are in full bloom.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From within the University of Galway campus, follow the signs towards the River Corrib. The Martin Tea-House Folly is located on the riverbank, a short walk from the main campus buildings. The path is well-maintained and easily accessible on foot.

  • Public Transport

    From Eyre Square in Galway city center, take Bus Éireann route 404 towards Dangan. Alight at the 'NUI Galway' stop. Walk into the university campus and follow the path straight until you reach the Martin Tea-House Folly. The bus fare is approximately €2.50.

  • Parking

    If driving, approach the University of Galway via the N6 and follow signs for the N59. Limited pay-and-display parking is available on campus. Visitors can register online in advance for a permit. Alternatively, the Cathedral Car Park is a 5-7 minute walk away, with rates of approximately €4-5 per day. Be aware of parking restrictions, which are in place Monday to Friday.

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Discover more about Martin Tea-House Folly

Nestled on the grounds of the University of Galway, the Martin Tea-House Folly is a captivating reminder of Galway's rich history and culture. This 19th-century structure, built around 1840, was commissioned by Robert Martin, a member of the prominent Martin family. Follies, popular among the wealthy in Europe from the 18th to the 20th centuries, were built for decoration and amusement rather than practical use. The Martin Tea-House Folly, designed in the Gothic Revival style, features a rectangular shape with a pointed roof and four turrets. It is believed the Martin family used the Tea-House Folly to view activities on the river while drinking afternoon tea. Its location may have also been a display of indifference towards the Blake family, who resided in Menlo Castle on the opposite bank. After the death of Robert Martin in 1874, the tea house fell into disrepair. In 1911, the University of Galway acquired the land and partially restored the tea house in 1992 with the help of the Galway Civic Trust. Today, the Martin Tea-House Folly is open to the public and accessible from the university campus, offering a peaceful retreat and a picturesque view of the River Corrib. It stands as a testament to Galway's whimsical spirit and invites visitors to reflect amidst its historical allure.

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