The Western Hotel

With its pretty, bay-facing houses and quaint shopping streets, Galway draws travelers with traditional Irish charm. Welcoming guests with the same appeal since 1946, The Western is warm and inviting. Renovations in 2016 helped spruce up some of the interiors, however, decor throughout is largely dated. Live Irish music at the wood-paneled bar is aptly authentic, and evenings are particularly atmospheric with entertainment provided six nights a week, plus free beer pints for open mic night participants. The restaurant has polished simplicity, and group meal deals here are popular amid a frequent bachelor/bachelorette crowd. Guests choose the hotel for its central positioning and parking perks. Note, while there are elevators, many rooms also require short stair climbs.

A five-minute walk from central Galway, the hotel is removed from noise, though still near to attractions. Greenery and shopping at Eyre Square are five minutes away on foot, as are Galway's bus and railway stations. The city's historic sights include medieval Lynch's Castle, the 1320-built St Nicholas' Collegiate Church, and Nora Barnacle's House (home of James Joyce's wife and muse) -- all of which are within a nine-minute walk. Ancient defense remnants at the Spanish Arch are three minutes farther. It's a nine-minute walk for Quay Street's nightlife, and 13 minutes for the dock's marina. Salthill's seafront promenade is a 28-minute walk (or quicker bus ride). The nearest Shannon Airport is 80 minutes by car. 

Homey rooms in a variety of sizes were partially renovated in 2016, with primarily the beds being modernized with attractive tufted headboards and neutral-tone bedding. They retained the cutesy decor typical of traditional Irish hotels -- think basic wood furniture, carpeting in red, green, or more attractive tan, floral-print drapes, frill details, and simple sconce lighting. Amenities include phones, desks, kettles for tea- and coffee-making, and either flat-screen or older tube-style TVs. Full-length mirrors, ironing facilities in good-sized wardrobes, and hairdryers add extra comforts, but there are no mini-fridges, AC, or safes. Reception can store valuables, however. Family Rooms add a third bed, and Quads are available. Cream-tiled bathrooms have shower/tub combos, towels, toiletries. Rooms can be fitted with cribs. Courtyard-facing rooms are generally quieter than those overlooking the street. All have free Wi-Fi. Nearby apartments have kitchens, but they're not part of the hotel's 40 core rooms.

Features here aren't extensive, but considering the central location, they're reasonable. Hardwood floors and exposed stone add refined touches to traditional pub furnishings in the bar, where pints are pulled old-school style, and sit-up leather stools are cozy. Black-and-white artwork depicts Galway's history on walls, but guests come for the atmosphere. Singalongs are popular, but the place doesn't get rowdy. Irish beers, ales, and coffees here accompany gins and whiskeys, plus solid meals and soft drinks. With group meal deals, the restaurant is equally frequented, and its roast and fish dishes are well-received. White-clothed tables here are bright amid blues and plums from chairs and smart rugs, but there's a function room feel to the place -- handy for those having an event here. Private dining for up to 40 people is available. Served buffet-style and at a fee, Full Irish breakfasts with scrambled eggs, bacon, baked beans, and fruit scones come alongside continental fare, tea, coffee, and juice. The hotel has no fitness or wellness facilities. On-site valet garage parking is free, though spaces are limited. Wi-Fi is free throughout.