Having been placed by Lonely Planet as the fourth best city to visit in 2013 by a panel of travel experts and awarded the first ever UK city of Culture for 2013 Derry is most certainly the place to be! Londonderry, Derry, Doire or even 'Legenderry' as it has been recently renamed, is a centre of culture and creativity.This vibrant destination offers a unique combination of rich heritage and a buzzing social scene - Derry was named as ‘Friendliest Destination in Northern Ireland’ so you will be guaranteed the warmest of welcomes! Over the past few years the city has unveiled to all-comers the creative vibrancy and generosity of spirit that has always been apparent to those who knew her best. It's a city famous for its confident modern outlook as it is for the timeless quality of its craic. Derry was named as runner up in the prestigious ‘Restaurant Association of Ireland’s 2015 ‘Foodie Town Awards’ so you can be sure to enjoy the very best of locally sourced produce including ‘from pier to plate’ seafood caught locally in neighboring Co. Donegal. Derry was named the "Best Halloween Destination in the World" by the readers of USA Today newspaper beating off stiff competition from Salem, Massachuttes and even Dracula's home town of Transylvania!
The vibrant city of Derry~Londonderry is a must see destination thanks to it’s historic local attractions, an action packed calendar of events and a unique heritage.
Take a trip back in time strolling along the famous 17th century Walls which celebrated their 400th birthday in 2013, here are one of the most intact city walls in Europe, and the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland. The walls make a perfect location for photos with stunning views over the cityscape and River Foyle.
Nestling just inside the walls is St Columb’s Cathedral, the first cathedral of its type built after the Reformation in 1633, making it the oldest building in the city. Dedicated to the name of Saint Columba (Columb), an Irish monk who established a Christian settlement in the city in the sixth century, the cathedral is a treasure trove of historical interest. Its Chapter House Museum has a display of artefacts dating from the Siege of Derry in 1689. It is also home to the original padlocks and keys of the four original gates of the city walls.
The city is also home to the following Museums and attractions:
- Museum of Free Derry ,
- Tower Museum,
- Saint Columba Heritage Centre (Áras Cholmcille) and St Columba’s Church Long Tower
- Siege Museum
- Riverwatch Visitor Centre & Aquarium
- Gasyard Heritage Centre
- The People's Gallery of Murals
The Peace Bridge & Ebrington Square
Since it was opened in June 2011, the Peace Bridge has become one of the city’s main attractions to tourists and locals alike. The pedestrian and cycle Peace Bridge links the newly opened public space at Ebrington Square. In 2013, Ebrington was a key venue during the UK City of Culture celebrations, hosting a range of events with audiences in excess of 500,000, including BBC Radio 1’s Big Weekend, 2013 Turner Prize, the Walled City Tattoo, the Lumière Festival, the Fleadh Cheoil na h’Éireann and a range of other sporting, family, charity and cultural activities.
The Guildhall
The Guildhall is one of Derry’s most recognisable landmarks and has been at the heart of city life since 1890.
As well as being home to the Council’s chamber and Mayor’s Parlour, the Guildhall is a must see visitor destination where you can be sure of a warm welcome.
While visiting the Guildhall you can see the stunning stained glass windows, an exhibition on the Plantation of Ulster, visit the main hall and organ or enjoy refreshments in the cafe.
Guided Tour of City Walls
- Take a guided tour around these walls with one of the many tour guides available in the city... more
Walled City Heritage Trail
Gateway to Ireland's Northwest, our city is pulsing with life, resonant with centuries of heritage and passion, yet fresh as an Atlantic breeze...more
Shopping
The city really is a shopper’s paradise with something to suit every taste and pocket. Check out the Foyleside Shopping Centre, the Richmond Shopping Centre and don’t miss the unique Craft Village.
Cinemas
Brunswick Moviebowl, Omniplex Derry Cinema,
Theatres
Millennium Forum Theatre & Conference Centre
The Playhouse
The Nerve Centre
The Waterside theatre
Bowling
Brunswick Cinebowl
Karting / Archery / Paintball / Bubble football
Campsie Karting Centre
Day trips - Excursions
Derry~Londonderry is the Gateway to the Northwest, it's the central hub for exploring the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coastal touring routes.... more
After a day of sightseeing, check out one of the city’s many restaurants for a well deserved bite to eat. Whether you’re looking for contemporary cuisine, a fine dining experience or somewhere to re-fuel the kids, you’ll find it all here in Derry~Londonderry.