Derry/Londonderry, expanding along the banks of the River Foyle, is a city steeped in rich history and vibrant culture. Known for its iconic walls, dating back to the 17th century, Derry/Londonderry offers visitors a glimpse into its fascinating past while embracing its modern identity. Wander through the charming streets of the Walled City, adorned with colourful murals and historic architecture. Explore the Guildhall, a striking symbol of Derry/Londonderry's civic pride, and immerse yourself in its fascinating museums and galleries. Known for its warm hospitality, lively music scene, and breathtaking scenery, Derry/Londonderry invites visitors to experience the best of Northern Ireland's cultural revolution.
We'll start our tour at one of Derry City's most famous landmarks. Spanning across the River Foyle and connecting the east and west banks of the city, The Peace Bridge is a symbol of hope and reconciliation. Opened in 2011, the bridge was designed by renowned architect Wilkinson Eyre. It's sleek design and sweeping curves give the Peace Bridge a modern feel. You'll get the best photos of the bridge by standing on the east bank, and getting the Guildhall and St Eugene's Cathedral in the background. The bridge has designated pedestrian and cycling lanes, and provides stunning views of both the River Foyle and Derry City at every point.
After crossing The Peace Bridge, heading across the river from east to west, you'll come to the Foyle Embankment. Taking a left here will bring you to a set of traffic lights. Cross the road here onto Water Street, this leads onto Orchard Street. This will bring you past the FoyleSide Shopping Centre on your left-hand side, and then Badgers Bar on your right. The Derry Girls Mural is on the side of Badgers Bar. While it may not be well known outside the British Isles, Derry Girls was a hugely popular sitcom that aired on Channel 4 from 2018 to 2022. It follows the hijinx of a young girl and her group of friends, and one of their hapless cousins; James, set mainly in a Catholic girls' school during the 1990s. The show is a source of immense pride to the Derry locals, and you'll see homages to it throughout the city — the Derry Girls Mural being the most prominent example.
Continuing up Orchard Street, take a right onto Ferryquay Street until you reach a plaza known as The Diamond. Heading straight across The Diamond will bring you onto Butcher Street. Towards the end of Butcher Street, take a left onto Magazine Street Upper, which will bring onto Palace Street and the Derry City Walls. The walls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and were first constructed during the British Plantation of Ulster between 1613 and 1618, as a means of protection from Irish chieftains. The walls run in a circuit around the old city and are an example of the best-preserved fortifications in Europe. It's free to walk one mile long circuit of the walls. They reach 26 feet high and 30 foot wide in places, with photo opportunities of both Derry City and its Bogside region in plentiful supply.
Circling back from the Derry City Walls, along Magazine Street Upper and onto Fahan Street, will bring you onto Rossville Street. Here, you'll find the Museum of Free Derry. Established in 1997 by the Bloody Sunday Trust, the museum is focused on the civil right movement in Northern Ireland, with a particular focus on Bloody Sunday — the day 13 unarmed civilians were killed by British forces during a civil right march (January 30th, 1972). The museum isn't much to look at from the outside, built within a section of an industrial complex, but inside it's a treasure trove of information. Packed with documents, artefacts and interactive displays, it gives a compelling look back at Derry City during "The Troubles". Particularly poignant is the Memorial Room, which is dedicated to each of the 13 people who lost their lives on Bloody Sunday. There is an entrance fee of &10, and is well worth a visit for anyone looking to get a better understanding of the social and political history of this once trouble city.
Looping back to Magazine Street, via Rossville Street, William Street and High Street, will bring you to the Craft Village. Located in the centre of Derry, the Craft Village is a wonderfully preserved section of the city that dates back to the 18th century. Made up of historic buildings that run along cobblestoned streets, it acts as both a shopping Mecca and the ideal spot to take a break and grab a snack. You'll find artisan shops selling everything from handmade jewellery, clothes, pottery and artwork. The atmosphere here is Bohemian and friendly, with a continuous variety of events, craft fairs, live music performances and exhibitions taking place throughout the year. Craft Village is also home to a number of cafés, restaurants, and bars where you can relax and take in the atmosphere.
A one-minute walk up Magazine Street, back towards the river, will bring you to the Tower Museum. While the Museum of Free Derry focuses on the history of the city during The Troubles, the Tower Museum gives an overview of Derry from its prehistoric origins, to the Spanish Armada of 1588, through the Troubles of the last century, to the present day. The museum is located just inside the Derry City Walls, and its roof acts as an open-air viewing area that offerings stunning views across the River Foyle and the city itself. There is an entrance fee of £4, and the knowledgable staff are more than happy to show you around and answer any questions that may arise.
Continuing along the path towards the river for about another minute, you'll reach the Guildhall. This iconic landmark of Derry City stands out with its striking sandstone exterior and distinctive clock tower. The building was completed in 1890 and is neo-Gothic in style. It has acted as a seat of local government since its opening and today is used as a hosts a variety of concerts, exhibitions and events throughout the year. Visitors can explore the Guildhall during designated hours, with knowledgeable guides available to offer insights into its architecture and historical significance. While entry is free, donations towards the buildings' upkeep are welcomed.
Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.
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Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.
Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.
Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.
Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable tour.
Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.
An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.
Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.
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Adare is a small town in Co. Limerick, known for its quaint and colourful thatched cottages. Adare is considered to be one of Ireland's most beautiful towns so stop and take in the view. Don't forget your camera today - the perfect chance to capture the essence of old Ireland.
Explore Adare Village along the Wild Atlantic Way.
Take a journey through this once troubled city. See the murals of the Loyalist Shankill Road & Nationalist Falls Road. The Troubles took their toll on the economic life of Belfast, but the past ten years of peace have returned much prosperity while the genuine friendliness of the city never left.
Originally built in 1823, Blarney Woollen Mills was mainly used for the spinning and weaving of wool. After it closed in 1973, it reopened in 1975 — as an Irish heritage shop.
The Culloden Battlefield Visitor Centre commemorates the last pitched battle fought on British soil, in April 1746. Learn more about the Jacobite intent to overthrow the House of Hanover and return the House of Stuart to the British throne.
Located within Glenveagh National Park, Glenveagh Castle was built by Captain John George Adair between 1870 and 1873. Having made his fortune through land speculation in America, Adair return to Ireland and began large amounts of land in County Donegal. The castle was built in the Scottish Baronial style and is surrounded by a garden and commands stunning views of the nearby mountains, lakes, woodlands and valleys.
About Highland Folk Museum is a museum and open-air attraction located in the Scottish Highlands. It is designed to showcase the domestic and working lives of the early highland people.
Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.
Located alongside the River Shannon in County Limerick, on King's Island. Dating back to 922, to a time when Vikings were the inhabitants of the island (Thormodr Helgason, the Viking sea-king, built the first settlement here. The castle itself was built in 1200, under the instruction of King John of England.
Located close to the Killarney National Park, Moriarty's is an Authentic Irish Gift Store and Restaurant. Hand crafted Irish jewellery, Waterford Crystal and classic and modern tweed fashions and furnishings are all on offer at the gift store. The restaurant is an 85 seater offering stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
Mount Congreve Gardens. Located in Kilmeaden, County Waterford, Mount Congreve Gardens is an 18th century Georgian estate and mansion. It was designed by the same architect that created both of Waterford's cathedrals, John Roberts.
Recently recognised as being one of the top 10 gardens in the world, Mount Stewart is a rich tapestry of planting plant life and stunning walking trails. The house dates back to the 19th century, and was the Irish seat of the Vane-Tempest-Stewart family.
Located on the grounds of the expansive and idyllic Killarney National Park. Muckross House, and its 11,000-acre grounds, was donated to the Irish state in 1932.
Located on the grounds of the picturesque Muckross House and its impeccable gardens. Take a step back in time and see the Irish farming lifestyle of the 1930s and '40s. A time when the horse was responsible for much of the labour and the weather was the be all and end all in terms of production.
The Quiet Man Museum. A reproduction of the quaint thatched cottage from the John Wayne starring, John Ford directed movie of the same name. all costumes, artefacts and furnishings have been recreated in precise detail, to reflect the setting of the 1952 classic. Located in the picturesque village of Cong, County Mayo.
Experience a once-in-a-lifetime 18-day adventure as you behold the most famous and captivating attractions that Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland, and England have to offer.
Discover the best of Ireland and Scotland with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Compare the cultures of these historic Gaelic nations during a magical fortnight.
Discover the Island of Ireland, North and South with this unforgettable 14-day tour. Spend 4 days in Ulster, and 10 more in Eire.
Experience all that is Ireland in this 10-day adventure. Ireland's best-loved attractions and its best-kept secrets, including the Wild Atlantic Way.
Take in the essence of captivating Ireland as you embark on an unforgettable 8-day adventure, immersing yourself in the Emerald Isle's beauty and charm.
Experience the true essence of Ireland in under a week. Ireland's unmissable destinations and the Wild Atlantic Way in one unforgettable tour.
An exclusive tour capped at max. 8 guests, travelling through the idyllic scenes of The Wild Atlantic Way. Including an overnight stay in an Irish castle.
Embark on a unique and intimate journey through the Celtic heartlands of Ireland and Scotland on this exclusive tour designed for a maximum of 8 guests.
Live like royalty for 10 days across Ireland, staying in real Irish castles and country manors. Enjoy the finest all-inclusive tour Ireland has to offer.
Northern Ireland's natural beauty awaits on this six-day fully-inclusive tour of Ulster. Picturesque towns, untamed coastlines and friendly locals await.
Explore the wonders of Ireland and Scotland on this remarkable 9-day tour. Immerse yourself in the rich cultures of these historic Gaelic nations as you embark on a captivating journey.
As a local Irish company, we at My Ireland Tour are passionate about our country and our local community. We're thrilled that you're interested in visiting the place we call home. That's why we put together this definitive travel guide for anyone who wants to come to Ireland and discover this amazing place for themselves.
This is a completely free resource covering everything from top tourist attractions to the nearest yoga centre. We hope it helps!
