Explore the Top Things to Do in Derry, Northern Ireland

Looking for activities in Derry? We have you covered. Our visits to Derry have revealed the charm of this city, which can’t be overlooked despite being often a quick stopover on Irish road trips.

Located in County Derry, Londonderry is rich in history and culture. After thoroughly exploring it on our latest visit, we realized how much this city has to offer.

Top Things to Do in Derry

Officially, the city of Derry is named Londonderry. However, “Derry” and “Londonderry” are often used interchangeably. Our recent trip led us to stay at The Hotel Maldran Derry, conveniently situated beside the walled city.

This hotel provided breathtaking views of the Peace Bridge and River Foyle, putting us within walking distance of Derry’s main attractions. After parking, we eagerly set out to discover the city on foot.

1. Walk The Derry Walls

The City Walls, dating back to 1613, encircle the Old City. A walk along these historic walls offers panoramic views of Derry, making it an essential activity. With a total length of 1.5 km, the walk features seven gates and beautiful lookout points. The walls, remarkably intact, are among Europe’s finest examples of a walled city and the only one that remains completely walled in Ireland.

Starting your exploration at Butcher’s Gate (6 Magazine Street Upper, Londonderry) is highly recommended by visitors.

2. Peace Bridge

The Peace Bridge is a stunning pedestrian bridge connecting the city center to Ebrington Square on the Waterside. Opened in 2011, it offers an excellent cycling path and a lively atmosphere during sunset as locals head home.

Take a serene river walk along both sides of the bridge, with St Columb’s Park just a short distance away.

3. Bogside Murals

The People’s Gallery in Bogside is an important cultural site. The murals visually narrate the civil unrest and conflicts that shaped Derry’s history, highlighting both local and global social injustices.

Noteworthy murals include tributes to human rights activists, as well as depictions of significant events during the troubles.

4. Bloody Sunday Monument

Pay your respects at the monument commemorating Bloody Sunday, a tragic event in 1972 that claimed the lives of 14 civilians. One prominent mural depicts Anette McGavigan, a 14-year-old girl killed that day, highlighting the personal stories connected to this historical event.

5. Free Derry Corner

This iconic mural marks the entrance to the Bogside area, recognized as a self-declared autonomous region during the height of the troubles. As you walk along Lecky Road, you will encounter several monuments and artworks depicting the turbulent history of Derry.

6. Hunger Strike Monument

The monument dedicated to hunger strikers like Bobby Sands is a poignant reminder of their sacrifices. Visiting these memorials allows for reflection on Derry’s complex history.

7. Free Derry Museum

The Free Derry Museum, opened in 2007, provides an insightful overview of the civil rights movement and the impact of the troubles on the local community. It is a significant site to understand Derry’s history.

8. Guildhall

Visitors must enter the beautifully detailed Guildhall, which is not only an architectural gem but also a site where historical testimonies from the Bloody Sunday hearings were conducted.

9. Siege Museum

The Siege Museum recounts the dramatic siege in 1689, an essential part of Derry’s history, lasting 105 days against the Jacobites. It offers a compelling narrative of resilience.

10. Derry Girls Filming Locations

Derry Girls, a popular show set in the 1990s, showcases the unique culture of Derry. Key filming locations including Bishop’s Gate, and Dennis Wee Shop are well worth a visit. Don’t miss the iconic Derry Girls mural!

11. Tower Museum

The Tower Museum hosts exhibitions including “The Story of Derry,” making it a crucial stop for those wanting to understand more about the city’s narrative. The open-air viewing platform on the fifth floor is a unique feature.

12. St. Columb’s Cathedral

No trip would be complete without visiting St. Columb’s Cathedral. It is known as the first Protestant church built in Ireland after the Reformation, with a rich history dating back to 1633.

13. St. Eugene’s Cathedral

While not entered, St. Eugene’s Cathedral is a stunning Roman Catholic structure that one can admire from multiple vantage points around the city.

14. Craft Village

Finding the Craft Village can be a challenge, but once discovered, it showcases beautiful gift shops and a Village Square, ideal for relaxation and enjoying local craft beers.

15. St Columb’s Park

For a moment of tranquility, head to St Columb’s Park. This scenic area includes lovely pathways and a charming café, ideal for a picnic.

Ness Country Park

Experience nature at Ness Country Park, featuring 55 hectares of parkland ideal for leisurely walks and enjoying natural landscapes.

16. Browns in Town

For a casual meal, Browns in Town is a trendy restaurant known for its ambiance and diverse menu featuring local craft beers and cocktails.

17. Walled City Brewery

Visit the Walled City Brewery for an interactive experience, featuring tastings of craft beers paired with delicious snacks.

18. Europe’s Biggest Halloween Celebration

Experience Halloween in Derry, home to the largest celebration in Europe, featuring parades and festivities throughout the city.

Where to Stay in Derry

The Maldron Hotel is an excellent choice with scenic views of River Foyle, located near Butchers Gate and the Derry City Walls.

• Address: Butcher St, Londonderry BT48 6HL, UK

How to Get to Derry

Derry is conveniently located, approximately a three-hour drive from Dublin and just under two hours from Belfast. Alternately, Derry has an airport with flights from the UK.

Day Trips from Derry

Derry-Coleraine Railway

Dubbed one of the most beautiful train journeys, the Derry-Coleraine railway offers stunning scenery and idyllic coastal views.

Causeway Coast

Take a scenic drive along the Causeway Coast, filled with breathtaking stops including the Giant’s Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne

Explore Mussenden Temple, perched above the coastline, and tour the historic grounds of Downhill House.

How to Reach Londonderry

There are various options to reach Derry, including flights to City of Derry Airport, train connections, and driving routes via roads from Belfast and Dublin. Public transport options also include bus services from various cities across the UK and Ireland.

It’s important to note the differing names used by various communities, impacting how visitors may refer to the city.