I recently binge-watched Derry Girls and found myself daydreaming about visiting the city. I was curious about what else the city offers beyond the adventures of Erin, Orla, Clare, and Michelle, so I went on a spontaneous Derry adventure.
If you’re overwhelmed about planning a trip to Derry, don’t worry—I’ve felt that, too! So, I’ve put together a guide highlighting 15 epic activities to make your Derry adventure unforgettable.
From historic sights to hidden gems, get ready to fall in love with this fantastic city! So, keep scrolling, and get ready to uncover all Derry has in store!
1. Stroll the Top of the Derry Walls
Website: http://www.thederrywalls.com/
Address: The Diamond, Londonderry BT48 6HW, United Kingdom
Contact details: +447894534553
Operating hours: 24/7
The Derry Walls are the most complete walled city in Ireland and one of the best-preserved examples in Europe. This 1-mile-long circuit, built in the 17th century, winds around the historic city center.
As you walk the ramparts, you’ll pass seven bastions or defensive towers and informative plaques that tell the story of the city’s long and fascinating history, including its role in the Siege of Derry in 1689.
Pro tip:
There are two ways to explore the walls: the Ramparts Walk follows the top, providing stunning panoramic views of the city and the countryside, while the Dry Moat Walk takes you along the base of the walls.
2. Learn about the Siege of Derry at the Siege Museum
Website: http://www.thesiegemuseum.org/
Address: 13 Society St, Londonderry BT48 6PJ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442871261219
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Siege Museum offers a captivating look at a pivotal time in Irish history. Through a range of exhibits that include artifacts, videos, and interactive displays, you’ll learn about the 105-day siege of the city by Jacobite forces loyal to King James II.
The museum sheds light on the experiences of the brave defenders, the harsh realities of the siege, and the broader context of the ongoing conflict between Catholics and Protestants in Ireland.
Pro tip:
Check out the museum’s collection of meeting rooms used by the Loyal Orders, including the Apprentice Boys of Derry. These rooms offer a unique glimpse into the traditions and symbolism that continue to resonate with many in Derry.
3. Reflect on a Pivotal Moment at Free Derry Corner
Address: Lecky Rd, Glenfada Park, Londonderry BT48 9DR, United Kingdom
Operating hours: 24/7
Free Derry Corner is a powerful landmark in Derry. It’s a gable wall with murals commemorating the “Free Derry” area, a self-declared nationalist zone established during the Troubles, a Northern Ireland conflict period.
The murals and surrounding area became a focal point for the Bogside residents and a symbol of their fight for civil rights. The murals depict iconic figures from The Troubles and slogans that evoke the intense emotions of the time.
Pro tip:
A must-do while visiting Free Derry Corner is to take a moment to reflect on the messages conveyed by the murals. The powerful imagery and words serve as a reminder of the importance of civil rights and the fight for equality.
4. Visit the Museum of Free Derry
Website: http://www.museumoffreederry.org/
Address: 55 Glenfada Park, Londonderry BT48 9DR, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442871360880
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Museum of Free Derry is an award-winning museum that tells the story of the civil rights movement in Derry. This period in Derry’s history is known as “The Troubles,” a time of conflict between the Catholic and Protestant communities in Northern Ireland.
The museum is located in the Bogside, a Catholic neighborhood at the center of the civil rights movement in Derry. Visitors can also see some famous murals painted on the walls of the Bogside during the Troubles.
Pro tip:
Take a guided tour of the museum. The museum’s guides are knowledgeable and can give you a deeper understanding of the exhibits.
5. Cross the Peace Bridge
Website: Derry BT48 7NN, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442871253253
Operating hours: 24/7
The Peace Bridge is a landmark symbolizing reconciliation, for scenic views of the River Foyle and the city. This award-winning bridge, designed by Wilkinson Eyre Architects, was inaugurated in 2011 and has become a powerful symbol of Derry’s transformation.
Its unique, curving design, with asymmetrical supports leaning towards each other, represents the coming together of the city’s once-divided communities. Walking across the bridge offers a peaceful and picturesque perspective of the city and the River Foyle.
Pro tip:
As you cross the bridge, take a moment to look towards Ebrington Square on the other side. This former military base has been beautifully transformed into a vibrant public space hosting everything from art exhibitions to open-air concerts.
6. Admire the Guildhall’s Magnificent Stained-Glass Windows
Website: https://guildhallderry.com/
Address: Londonderry BT48 7BB, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442871376510
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 8:00 PM
Guildhall’s magnificent stained-glass windows are considered some of the finest in Great Britain. This neo-Gothic masterpiece, built in 1887, is a must-see for architecture and history lovers.
Inside, you’ll find warm wood paneling, ornate ceilings, and interactive exhibits that delve into the city’s fascinating past, including the Plantation of Ulster. It’s also a vibrant hub where you can catch a concert, attend a wedding, or simply relax.
Pro tip:
Check the Guildhall’s website before your visit to see if any special events or exhibitions are happening during your time in Derry. Take some time to appreciate the intricate details of the stained-glass windows.
7. Step Back in Time at the Award-Winning Tower Museum
Website: https://towermuseumcollections.com/
Address: Union Hall Pl, Londonderry BT48 6LU, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442871372411
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM
The Tower Museum offers a unique perspective on Derry’s journey, from its monastic beginnings to its modern-day regeneration. Here, you can immerse yourself in the “Story of Derry” exhibit featuring interactive displays and historical artifacts.
You can also learn about the secrets of the Spanish Armada shipwreck, the La Trinidad Valencera, through a dedicated exhibit that delves into the fascinating story of this colossal vessel that met its demise off the Donegal Coast in 1588.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the chance to climb the museum to the top floor. You’ll be rewarded with breathtaking panoramic views of the city and the River Foyle, the only public viewpoint offering this perspective in the heart of Derry.
8. Explore Derry’s Craft Village
Website: https://www.derrycraftvillage.com/
Address: Londonderry BT48 6DH, United Kingdom
Operating hours: Monday to Saturday – 9:00 AM to 9:00 PM
Derry’s Craft Village is a delightful reconstruction of an 18th-century street and 19th-century square. This unique shopping district is a haven for artisan crafts and culture, offering a charming alternative to high-street shops.
Over 70 local crafters showcase and sell their high-quality wares, ensuring you’ll find something special: knitwear, pottery, jewelry, or delectable treats. You can also sit at a cozy cafe and watch the world go by or fuel up with on-site restaurants.
Pro tip:
Don’t forget to check out the events calendar on the Craft Village website before your visit. They often host special workshops and demonstrations, allowing you to see the crafters in action and learn a new skill.
9. Explore the History of Derry at St. Columb’s Cathedral
Website: http://www.stcolumbscathedral.org/
Address: 17 London St, Londonderry BT48 6RQ, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442871267313
Operating hours: Wednesday to Saturday – 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
St. Columb’s Cathedral is Derry’s oldest building. This majestic neo-Gothic cathedral, built between 1628 and 1633, is the city’s most historic building and the first cathedral built after the Reformation in Ireland.
As you step inside, you’ll be greeted by stunning stained glass windows, ornate memorials, and a vaulted ceiling. Renowned artists created these windows in the 19th and early 20th centuries, and they are some of Ireland’s finest examples of stained glass.
Pro tip:
Don’t miss the Chapter House Museum! This small museum is located within the cathedral and houses a collection of artifacts, including weaponry, clothing, and documents, from the Siege of Derry.
10. Snap a Selfie with the Derry Girls Mural
Address: 18 Orchard St, Londonderry BT48 6EG, United Kingdom
Operating hours: 24/7
The Derry Girls Mural is a must-see for fans of the hit comedy series of the same name. Located on Orchard Street, it features life-sized portraits of the show’s main characters – Erin, Orla, Clare, Michelle, and James – against the iconic Derry city walls.
This vibrant artwork celebrates the show that brought a comedic lens to the experiences of teenagers growing up in Derry during the Troubles, a period of conflict in Northern Ireland.
Pro tip:
Look for hidden gems like a chip shop named “Famine” (a nod to the Irish Potato Famine) and a poster for a fictional band called “The Murder She Wrote.” These details add to the mural’s charm and showcase the creators’ sense of humor.
11. Hike to the Iconic Mussenden Temple
Website: https://www.nationaltrust.org.uk/mussenden-temple-and-downhill-demesne
Address: Seacoast Rd, Coleraine BT51 4RH, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442870848728
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Mussenden Temple is a miniature Roman temple modeled after the Temple of Vesta. Once the estate of the Bishop of Derry, the demesne encompasses the ruins of Downhill House, a once-grand Georgian mansion.
Here, you can explore the walled garden, which supplied the bishop’s table with fresh produce, and imagine the estate’s former grandeur as you wander the grounds. Watch for a vibrant spring display of snowdrops, bluebells, and wild garlic.
Pro tip:
Be sure to check the weather conditions before you go. The clifftop walk can become windy and slippery, so wear sturdy shoes with good grip.
12. Immerse Yourself in the Beauty of Prehen Wood
Website: http://www.woodlandtrust.org.uk/
Address: 16-2 Summer Hill, Londonderry BT47 2PR, United Kingdom
Operating hours: 24/7
Spanning over 400 hectares, Prehen Wood is one of the few remaining ancient woodlands in Northern Ireland. The woodland floor is a tapestry of colorful wildflowers that transform the landscape throughout the year.
As you wander, look out for the whimsical wooden sculptures created by local artist Michael Rodgers. These delightful figures, including a squirrel, fox, badger, hedgehog, and butterfly, provide a fun element for children.
Pro tip:
If you’re feeling more adventurous, try mountain biking on the purpose-built trails. There are also orienteering courses set up in the woods, which provide a unique way to explore the terrain and test your navigational skills.
13. Explore Ness Country Park
Website: http://www.discovernorthernireland.com/Ness-Country-Park-Killaloo-Londonderry-Derry-P2920
Address: 50 Oughtagh Rd, Killaloo, Londonderry BT47 3TR, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442871338417
Operating hours: 9:00 AM to 4:30 PM
Ness Country Park is a 55-hectare area of meadows and woodland bisected by the River Burnstollet. The park is also home to various wildlife, including birds, squirrels, and rabbits, making it a great place to relax and enjoy nature.
A must-do at Ness Country Park is to visit Ness Waterfall. A viewing platform is located near the waterfall, so you can get up close and personal with this natural wonder.
Pro tip:
If you’re looking for a more challenging activity, try hiking to the top of Ness Wood. The hike is relatively short, but it offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
14. Hike the Dramatic Sand Dunes at Downhill Beach
Address: Coleraine, United Kingdom
Downhill Beach provides panoramic views of the wild Atlantic coastline, and the historic Mussenden Temple perched on a clifftop. Here, you can climb the soft slopes of the golden dunes, feeling the wind in your hair as you reach the summit.
From this vantage point, gaze out at the endless blue horizon of the ocean, dotted with whitecaps, and spot surfers riding the waves. Look down on the Mussenden Temple, a miniature Romanesque building modeled after the Temple of Vesta.
Pro tip:
Pack a picnic basket and enjoy a leisurely lunch on the beach while soaking up the sun and the scenery. Take a moment to stand in silence on the beach and appreciate the raw beauty and power of the Atlantic Ocean.
15. Visit the Seamus Heaney HomePlace
Website: http://www.seamusheaneyhome.com/
Address: 45 Main St, Bellaghy, Magherafelt BT45 8HT, United Kingdom
Contact details: +442879387444
Operating hours: 10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
The Seamus Heaney HomePlace is a unique literary and cultural center dedicated to the life and works of Seamus Heaney. The center is built around Bellaghy Bawn, a 17th-century fortified house, and the surrounding grounds.
The centerpiece of the HomePlace is the permanent exhibition, “Seamus Heaney: A Life in Poetry.” This exhibition takes visitors through Heaney’s life, from his childhood in rural Ireland to his rise to international fame.
Pro tip:
Take a walk in the beautiful Georgian-walled garden. The garden is a tranquil spot to relax and reflect on Heaney’s poetry.