Embarking on a trip to Derry-Londonderry, Northern Ireland, and seeking an unforgettable adventure? Look no further! This guide on the best things to do in Derry-Londonderry is your gateway to an exhilarating journey.
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Whether you’re a Derry Girls or Game of Thrones fan or simply love history, Derry is well worth a visit. With its rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes, this enchanting destination offers an array of unmissable experiences.
From exploring the ancient city walls to retracing Derry’s troubled history through stunning art, this city won’t disappoint. You can also look forward to tasty brews, magnificent architecture, and some of the UK’s best beach destinations.
Get ready to dive headfirst into the wonders of Derry-Londonderry.
Where is Derry, Ireland?
The walled city of Derry-Londonderry is located in Northern Ireland, which is part of the United Kingdom. It is situated in the northwestern region of Northern Ireland and is the second-largest city in the region after Belfast.
How to Get to Derry-Londonderry, Northern Ireland
If you’re flying into Derry from the UK, the City of Derry Airport is a good option. The airport is only about seven miles northeast of the city. It provides direct flights between cities like London, Manchester, Glasgow, Liverpool, and Scotland’s capital, Edinburgh. From the airport, you can take a bus or a taxi to Derry. A taxi should cost less than £15.
If you are flying from somewhere outside the UK or prefer more flight options, Belfast International Airport is a great alternative. It is approximately an hour and a half away from Derry by car. From the airport, you can travel to Derry either by bus, train, taxi, or rental car.
The train or bus options cost around £25, while the taxi may cost upward of £100. A rental car offers you more flexibility to explore Derry and beyond and may work out cheaper than a taxi.
Take a look at what not to do in Derry-Londonderry before reading about what you should be doing:
Best Things to Do in Derry, Ireland
Below are the top unmissable things to do in Londonderry.
Walk the City Walls
Did you know that Derry is the only completely intact walled city in Ireland? Built between 1613 and 1618, the defensive walls are one of the best-preserved in Europe.
The over 400-year-old structure measures a total of about a mile (1.6 km) in length. Along the walls, you’ll spot beautiful attractions like St Eugene’s Cathedral and the Long Tower Church.
The best way to immerse yourself in the history of Derry is with a guided city walls tour. The guide will cover some of the most important sites along the walls and delve into Derry’s interesting history. We were taken around by the charismatic Charlene from McCrossan Derry Tours who have been providing City Tours for over 25 years.
Explore the Surrounding Streets
Don’t forget to explore the streets in the walled city. If you head to London Street and Pump Street, you’ll come across some delightfully colourful Georgian houses. And just around the corner, on Market Street, sits the Derry Girls Mural. Be sure to bring your camera along to capture all these visual delights.
Stop By the Museum of Free Derry
Delve into the stories of the people who fought for justice and equality at the Museum of Free Derry. The museum offers engaging exhibits showcasing the struggles and triumphs that have shaped Derry-Londonderry today.
Learn about the Battle of Bogside, Free Derry, and Bloody Sunday through informative videos and physical exhibits. It’s a must-visit to learn more about the city’s tumultuous past and its resilient people.
Stroll Through the People’s Gallery
Derry may just be one of the best cities in the world to see beautiful street art. And the People’s Gallery in the Bogside neighbourhood is an especially notable spot.
Twelve moving murals adorn the facades of buildings along Rossville Street. These murals were created by a group of people called The Bogside Artists and illustrate the city’s complex history.
To learn more about the meaning, history, and artist behind each artwork, consider taking a guided Bogside walking tour. You’ll also learn about the tragic Bloody Sunday, which took place in Bogside on January 30 1972.
Enjoy a Derry Girls-Inspired Afternoon Tea
Calling all Derry Girls fans! Once you’ve captured the perfect shot in front of the Derry Girls mural, why not stop for an afternoon tea? The Everglades Hotel, on the other side of the River Foyle, offers a Derry Girls-themed experience you won’t soon forget.
Enjoy Derry sausage roll baps and cheese and onion crisp sandwiches, among other treats, washed down with some sweet tea. You’ll even get a Hastings Derry Girls Duck to take home as a memento.
The afternoon tea costs about £30 per person, and you can call the Everglades Hotel to secure a booking.
Visit the Guildhall
Completed in 1890, the Neo-Gothic style Guildhall is one of Derry’s top points of interest. Boasting an intricate facade, stained-glass windows, and a beautiful clock tower, it’s a marvellous sight. But don’t just admire this town hall from the outside!
There’s plenty to see inside, including an information point and an exhibition about the 17th-century Plantation of Ulster.
You’ll also get a close-up look at the stained glass works, which artfully encapsulate Derry’s history. Some windows are dedicated to Bloody Sunday, while others depict King James I and other imperial symbols.
Another reason to go inside the Guildhall is to see John Hume’s three peace prizes together. This includes the 1998 Nobel Peace Prize, the Martin Luther King Jnr Non-Violent Prize, and the Mahatma Gandhi Peace Prize. John Hume is the only person to receive all three awards, making it a very rare and unique exhibition.
Don’t Miss the Craic – AKA Good Times at Peadar O’Donnell’s
Not familiar with the word “craic”? The craic roughly refers to fun or entertainment, which you’ll surely find at Peadar O’Donnell’s. This lively pub sits just around the corner from the Guildhall and offers live traditional music, excellent drinks, and an incredible atmosphere.
It’s a great spot to unwind with a Guinness and get to know the locals. You can also delve into some traditional comfort dishes, like good old bangers and mash.
Wander Along the Peace Bridge
Don’t miss a stroll down the award-winning Peace Bridge, completed in 2011. The iconic 235-metre (771-foot) long steel bridge spans the River Foyle and cost £14.5m to construct.
The pedestrian bridge is an effort to overcome a physical and political divide in Londonderry, connecting the east and west banks. Whether you choose to meander leisurely or marvel from afar, the Peace Bridge is an awe-inspiring sight from all angles.
Sample Craft Beer at Walled City Brewery
Don’t just stick to Guinness, the Walled City Brewery has you sorted with their craft beer flights (beer tastings). This family-run gastro pub near the Peace Bridge offers an assortment of craft brews in an elegant-meets-rustic setting.
Walled City Brewery aspires to appeal to all sorts of tastes. So even if you’re not a big beer fan, you might just be swayed by their Wit or Passionista brew. Of course, there’s also a brew inspired by the Derry Girls named Rock the Boat — a refreshing seltzer.
To get the full experience, you can book a grain-to-glass brewery tour and tasting. Or take a beer masterclass to learn about the extensive history of brewing. For those who prefer spirits, you can join the Earheart Gin School to create your very own gin.
You also won’t want to miss their award-winning on-site restaurant, which offers elegantly plated international dishes.
Things to Do Near Derry City, Ireland
Don’t forget to add extra days to your Londonderry itinerary to explore the Causeway Coastal Route near the city. Below are some highlights to look forward to.
See the Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
Situated about a 50-minute drive from Derry City, the Mussenden Temple looks like something out of a storybook. Built in the 18th century, the temple is said to have been inspired by Italy’s Temple of Vesta.
It was built for the Bishop of Derry, who used the building as a library. Today, it stands deserted, perched on the cliffside overlooking the coast. It’s one of the most photographed places in Ireland. Once you get there, you’ll understand why!
Besides the temple, you can also see the ruins of the Downhill House and stroll through nature. There’s also a little takeaway coffee shop where you can grab something warm to drink.
Admire The Dunes of Portstewart Strand
About 20 minutes from the Mussenden Temple, you’ll find the popular Portsteward Strand. This Blue Flag beach boasts golden sand and some of the tallest dunes in Ireland. These dunes are said to be over 6,000 years old and are great fun to explore with the kids.
Visit the Romantic Ruins of Dunluce Castle
Another 15-minute drive gets you to Dunluce Castle, a 16th-17th century fortress overlooking the shore. The castle has been home to both the McQuillan and MacDonnell clans, who had a feud with each other.
Today, the castle is in ruin, with parts of it having fallen into the ocean. Yet the dilapidated structure is still a beautiful sight. In fact, Dunluce Castle was used as the seat of the House Greyjoy in the Game of Thrones.
For spectacular photos, try to arrive about an hour before closing time to capture the castle in the afternoon glow. Opening hours are from 9:30 am to 4 pm.
Stop by the Iconic Giant’s Causeway
The Giant’s Causeway is only about 10 minutes from Dunluce Castle and was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1986. Composed of about 40,000 giant basalt columns, this coastal section has an interesting story behind it.
Legend says that a giant named Finn McCool constructed a causeway to cross the Irish Sea and face his rival. Following their meeting, his giant Scottish rival, Benandonner, ripped the causeway apart as he returned to Scotland.
According to the scientific explanation, these hexagonal basalt columns are said to have formed as lava cooled and cracked in the ocean. Regardless of its origin, you’re sure to capture some stunning photos here, and the coastal views are equally stunning.
Where to Stay in Londonderry, Ireland
Looking for a place to stay in Londonderry/ Derry? Below are some hand-picked options for every budget.
Budget | Art House
The quirky and contemporary Art House offers spacious and luxurious rooms that won’t break the budget. Each vibrant room has its own private bathroom with complimentary toiletries. Of course, Netflix and Alexa come standard, so you can unwind with a good movie after a day of exploring.
The Art House is about a 10-minute walk from the historic city walls and is surrounded by lovely bars and restaurants. So you won’t be far from Derry’s exciting attractions.
Mid-range | Everglades Hotel
Don’t just book a Derry Girls-themed afternoon tea here. The Everglades Hotel is an excellent option for accommodation in Derry. Just a five-minute drive from the city centre, this 4-star hotel offers spacious rooms decorated in vibrant colours.
It’s also a short distance from the Prehen Woods, where you can enjoy early morning strolls among nature. The Derry Golf Course is also just around the corner if you’re looking for a bit of sport.
Luxury | Bishop’s Gate Hotel
Situated near picturesque London Street and Pump Street, the Bishop’s Gate Hotel is perfectly placed in the heart of Derry. The property was built in 1899, boasting Edwardian architecture and equally luxurious interiors.
This hotel is a great option if you’re travelling with family or friends, as there are a variety of apartment types. Choose between everything from a luxury room with a private balcony to a two-bedroom luxury apartment equipped with a kitchen.
You’ll have most of Londonderry’s attractions practically at your doorstep. But the hotel offers bike hire services if you’d like to explore beyond. You can also keep up with your fitness goals in the on-site fitness centre. At the end of the day, retreat to the on-site restaurant and bar for a delicious meal and tasty cocktail.
Ready to Explore Derry-Londonderry, Ireland?
As you can tell, Derry-Londonderry is a captivating destination offering a rich blend of history, culture, and natural and architectural beauty. From exploring the stories behind its vibrant street art to venturing along the Causeway Coastal Route, you’re guaranteed a memorable time.
If you’re looking for more spectacular places in the United Kingdom, why not have a look at these UK staycations? After all, you don’t always need to travel far to find stunning gems that feel otherworldly.
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