Life Stories
Nicholas Tinne
Nicholas (Nick) Tinne (1959 BA Jurisprudence) died on 1 January 2026 aged 85.
Nick was born on 22 April 1940 in Hale, near Liverpool in England. Nick began his journey at the Dragon School, followed by Eton, forming friendships and values that followed him throughout his lifetime. Apart from academics, his main interest was in rowing, and he represented the Eton eight at Henly. After leaving in 1958, he went on to Oxford, where he dedicated himself to rowing and read Jurisprudence. His determination and discipline, earned him an Oxford Blue, a distinction that speaks of his grit and spirit.
A major chapter in Nick’s life unfolded when he met and married Rosie, with whom he opened Snaffles, a restaurant that would become well‑loved and famously lively. Snaffles welcomed celebrities, friends, and characters from all walks of life. Among its many stories, one of Nick’s favourites, involved Charlie Haughey coming for dinner—and the surprised amusement that followed when an unexpected piece of ladies’ clothing was found during the cleanup the next day. It was moments like these that captured the fun and unpredictability that followed Nick wherever he went.
Nick and Rosie welcomed three children—Emma, Alexine, and Edward. Although sadly their paths later diverged.
In 1983, Nick and Janet got together. She became his life partner and true companion. Together, they built a rich and rooted life in Connemara and the poets house near Craughwell.
Nick’s talents in hospitality continued as he took the restaurant franchise of Rafferty’s Rest in Kilcolgan, followed by managing Belleek Castle Hotel. Together with Janet, he established an exceptional B&B at Emlaghmore which they ran for 15 years.
Nick was, by nature, a sportsman. He found his greatest joy on the water or in the outdoors, especially when sailing, shooting and fishing. His beloved Galway hooker, “The Ave Maria,” was the centre of countless happy memories. Many of us—myself included—remember long, laughter‑filled days aboard her.
Nick joined a shooting syndicate, started by Michael Hide and now ably run by his son Timothy. It was a relaxed shoot where all the members got on with each other, and while the bags may not have be huge, everyone enjoyed their days. Nick’s last with them was just 10 days before he went into hospital.
In the winter, he and Janet spent a lot of their time in Janet’s house near Craughwell. Janet was a keen hunting lady and was deeply involved with the management of The Galway Blazers. Horses were not Nick’s thing, however I did see him once ride and jump a few fences, and I don’t think it was an experience either he or the horse enjoyed.
It is with deep sadness that we remember that both Emma and Edward are no longer with us. Their absence is felt profoundly today, but their memory adds richness and depth to the tribute we pay to Nick’s life.
Nick’s legacy continues not only through his stories and friendships, but through the generations that follow him. He leaves behind a family who loved him dearly, including his Daughter Alexine, granddaughter Daisy, and Daisy’s two children—Nick’s cherished great‑grandchildren.
We hold tightly to the memories he leaves behind: the laughter, the stories, the adventures on the water, and the quiet moments of kindness. Nick’s spirit remains with us—in the sea he loved, in the communities he helped build, and in the hearts of everyone who was privileged to call him a friend.
Kindly provided by his friend, Edward Cooper