Northern Ireland’s second-largest city boasts a beguiling riverside setting, with several fascinating historic sites and heritage buildings. An old city with a contemporary streak, it’s also home to a fantastic selection of cafés, restaurants, bars and music venues. Whether you’re planning a daytrip to Derry, or a short weekend break, you’ll find there’s plenty to see and do.
Derry, or Londonderry, is the fourth largest city on the island of Ireland. Some improvements were made to the city when it was awarded the UK City of Culture 2013. It was during this time that the striking Peace Bridge – which crosses the River Foyle – was built. On the west bank of the river lies the old walled city, where you can catch a captivating glimpse of the past.
Interestingly, Derry is also famed for its Halloween celebrations. If you do plan on visiting during October, remember to check out events taking place across the city. From the street parade to the firework display, there’s a whole host of entertainment during the autumnal weeks.
Book your ferry trip to Ireland today, and start planning your visit to Derry / Londonderry using this handy city guide.
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Foyleside is Derry/Londonderry’s largest shopping centre. With a wide selection of well-known high street stores, including River Island, Debenhams and Pandora, Foyleside will fulfil all of your shopping desires.
Orchard Street
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Richmond Shopping Centre is located on Shipquay Street and boasts a great range of shops, as well as plenty of food and drink options to keep you going.
Shipquay Street
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Derry/Londonderry has the oldest surviving city walls on the island of Ireland. If you are interested in history, this is a beautiful place to see. Built in 1619, these walls are 1.5km in length and stand eight metres tall and nine metres wide.
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St Columb’s Cathedral, built from the exact same material as the City Walls, is Derry/Londonderry’s oldest building. It was the first post-reformation church to be built on the island of Ireland.
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The Guildhall was originally built in 1890 and in a neo-gothic style. The Guildhall is an incredible place to visit if you are interested in Irish history.
Guildhall Street
Get inspired by Tourism Ireland’s recommendations for places waiting to be discovered in Derry / Londonderry.
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Browns
Located on Bond's Hill, Browns is an upmarket restaurant featuring a luxurious champagne bar. Widely considered as the best restaurant in Derry/Londonderry, you won’t be disappointed – whether you opt for the tasting menu or the impressive à la carte.
1 Bond's Hill
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The Sooty Olive
An incredible selection of food, from a fine rib eye steak through to exotic Asian squid. Whatever your tastes are, one thing is for sure: you’ll find something you love at the Sooty Olive.
Spencer Road
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Quay West
If great service and great food are your thing, Quaywest is not to be missed. This globally-influenced restaurant is set within the 19th-century former boathouse of the City of Derry/Londonderry Rowing Club. Be sure to book ahead for this urban dining experience as tables tend to fill up quickly, especially on weekends.
Queens Quay
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Peadars
Peadar O’Donnells bar is a beautiful traditional Irish music bar. It’s renowned for impromptu music sessions from local musicians or visiting performers, and boasts three different bars. If you want to experience some classic Irish craic, this is an absolute must-visit.
Waterloo Street
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Sandinos
Sandinos Café Bar features a great lounge bar and is regarded by many as one of Derry / Londonderry’s best venues. Often complimented for its pints of Guinness and interior design, it really is an exquisite place to spend an evening.
Water Street
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Rocking Chair
Rocking Chair is a lively pub with a marvellous assortment of drinks and a warm atmosphere. As the name suggests, it’s also – quite simply – an excellent place to relax.
Waterloo Street
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If outdoor fun is your thing, then Oakfire Adventures is for you. With Ireland’s steepest and longest zorbing track, you’ll be sure to have an incredible time here. Paintballing is also an option.
Check out the outdoor activities on offer before you go - watch the video on the Oakfire Adventures site
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Creggan Country Park is all about water-based fun. An incredibly enjoyable and safe day out for all ages and all swimming abilities. Visit the site for more information.
