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Salmon Weir Bridge: Galway's Historic River Crossing

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Experience Galway's history at the Salmon Weir Bridge, a scenic spot to watch the salmon run and enjoy stunning river views.

The Salmon Weir Bridge, an iconic landmark in Galway City, has spanned the River Corrib since 1818. It's a prime spot for watching salmon navigate the weir, especially from May to September. The bridge links the Galway Cathedral to the courthouse, offering scenic views and a glimpse into Galway's past.

A brief summary to Salmon Weir Bridge

Eve
From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Salmon Weir Bridge.

  • Visit between May and September for the best chance to see salmon swimming upstream.
  • Bring a camera to capture the scenic views of the River Corrib and Galway Cathedral.
  • Take a stroll along the new pedestrian bridge, Droichead an Dóchais, for a different perspective of the area.

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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Salmon Weir Bridge is easily accessible on foot from Galway City Centre. From Eyre Square, walk west along Shop Street, crossing the Wolfe Tone Bridge. Continue onto Salmon Weir Road; the bridge will be directly ahead, connecting to University Road. Allow approximately 10-15 minutes for a leisurely walk. There is no cost associated with walking.

  • Public Transport

    Several bus routes service the area near the Salmon Weir Bridge. Check local bus schedules for the most up-to-date information. From the Galway Bus Station at Eyre Square, take any of the frequent city buses heading towards the University. Alight at a stop near the Galway Cathedral; the bridge is a short walk away. A single-fare bus ticket within the city typically costs around €2-€3.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis and ride-sharing services are readily available in Galway City. Request a ride to the Galway Cathedral on University Road; the Salmon Weir Bridge is adjacent to the cathedral. A short taxi ride from the city center will typically cost between €8 and €12, depending on traffic and time of day.

Discover more about Salmon Weir Bridge

The Salmon Weir Bridge is one of Galway's most recognizable and historic landmarks. Built in 1818, it crosses the River Corrib, connecting the Cathedral on one side with the courthouse on the other. The bridge provides stunning views of the river and its surroundings. It's a popular spot for locals and tourists alike.Historically, a wooden bridge existed on this site as early as 1235. King Henry III granted it to Richard de Burgh, Earl of Ulster. This earlier bridge was known as Friars' Bridge, as it connected a Franciscan abbey with the mainland. The Franciscans controlled the fisheries and built a weir to trap salmon, giving the bridge its name. The Friars' Bridge was destroyed and replaced in 1651 by a stone bridge called Gaol Bridge, linking the courthouse to the prison.The current bridge, designed by James Savage, was constructed from limestone with three arches. In 2023, a new pedestrian and cycle bridge, Droichead an Dóchais (Bridge of Hope), opened beside the Salmon Weir Bridge to ease congestion. Despite the addition, the Salmon Weir Bridge remains a vital part of Galway, offering a tangible connection to the city's rich history. Today, the bridge is a prime location to observe salmon swimming upstream, particularly between May and September.

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