The Residence Hotel

In many ways, this is a pub with rooms rather than a hotel with a bar. It could use a refresh; the dark, dated lobby and hallways have faded yellow walls and bronze-framed mirrors. But the pub itself, housed in a 200-year-old building that was once a convent, has plenty of charm. The traditional gray stone and pretty pink exterior are attractive, while inside the worn hardwood floors, repainted stone walls, and fireplaces with intricately carved wooden detailing create an intimate ambience. There's a pleasant sidewalk terrace too. The boisterous pub atmosphere makes this a great choice for those visiting Galway for its nightlife, especially on the weekends -- the pub’s a popular bachelor and bachelorette party venue. 

The Residence Hotel is set on a quaint medieval cobblestone street in the midst of Galway’s Latin Quarter, a pedestrian-only district that buzzes 24/7. The hotel is surrounded by other pubs, bars, restaurants, and shops, and it’s a minute’s walk from both the Mick Lally Theatre (also known as the Druid Theatre) and the Hall of the Red Earl archaeological excavation site, which is open to visitors. Galway City Museum is a two-minute walk away, and Galway Cathedral is 10 minutes away on foot or five minutes away by car. Farther afield, Connemara National Park is a 90-minute drive, or a two-hour trip on public transportation. Trains and long-distance intercity buses to Dublin and elsewhere leave from Ceannt Station, a nine-minute walk or seven-minute bus ride from the hotel. Galway’s airport is not currently in use, and Ireland West Airport, in Knock, is about a 75-minute drive from the hotel, or about an hour and 45 minutes by public transportation.

Unlike the pub downstairs, the Residence Hotel’s 20 rooms don't ooze Old World charm -- they're simply dated. They include Doubles, Twins, Triples, Family and Quad Rooms. Their off-white walls sport old-fashioned framed prints. Beds -- which some guests complain are uncomfortable -- have old-fashioned headboards, and carpets are a mix of plain off-white and dark patterns. There are small coffee tables with dated armchairs and dark-wooden desks. Windows have old-fashioned blue-and-white floral or brown curtains. All rooms come with flat-screen TVs, phones, and coffee- and tea-making facilities. Hairdryers and irons are available on request. Bathrooms are a bit dated too, but less so than the rooms, with cream-colored tiling on the walls, black tiling on the floor, and shower/tub combos with fixed showerheads. There is no in-room Wi-Fi, and guests have complained about poor maintenance and housekeeping. These are not rooms for light sleepers, either -- expect plenty of noise from the bar and street below, both at night and in the early morning -- as well as from other rooms.

Given that the Residence Hotel is essentially a pub with rooms, there's little in the way of amenities. Breakfast isn’t available, but there are numerous cafes within walking distance. Basic pub food is served most evenings (for a fee), including a selection of local seafood dishes. There’s live music every night, including traditional Irish music performances, and the bar stays open until late. Free Wi-Fi is available in the bar. Discounted overnight parking is available at two secure indoor garages, both within a five-minute walk of the hotel.