Derry, United Kingdom Travel Guide

Explore Derry: Where history meets vibrant culture in a city bridging Irish and British heritage, offering breathtaking views and captivating festivals.

Derry, also known as Londonderry, is a city that straddles the line between two nations, offering a unique blend of Irish and British cultures. Nestled in Northern Ireland, Derry is famed for its well-preserved 17th-century city walls that encircle the old city, providing a glimpse into the past with tales of sieges and resilience. Walking along these walls, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the River Foyle and the iconic Peace Bridge, which symbolizes the city's journey towards unity and peace. Beyond its historical allure, Derry boasts a vibrant arts scene, with the annual Derry Halloween festival drawing visitors from all over the world. The city's streets come alive with parades, music, and captivating performances, making it a must-visit for those who love culture and festivities. The Tower Museum offers an interactive experience, guiding visitors through Derry's tumultuous history, while the Guildhall stands as a testament to the city's architectural marvels. A visit to Derry is incomplete without exploring its natural beauty. The city serves as a gateway to the stunning landscapes of the Causeway Coast, with the Giant's Causeway and the scenic Antrim Coast just a short drive away. Whether you're exploring its historical streets, indulging in its cultural offerings, or venturing into the surrounding wilderness, Derry promises an enriching experience that bridges the past and present.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Derry.

Walk the city walls for the best views and a sense of history.
Visit during the Derry Halloween festival for a unique experience.
Check out the Tower Museum for a deep dive into local history.
Take a day trip to the Giant's Causeway from Derry.
Use local taxis and public transport to explore the city easily.

Explore Derry: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Best attractions in Derry

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Best Attractions

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Causeway Coast and Glens

Explore Northern Ireland’s dramatic coastline, ancient basalt columns, historic castles, and vibrant culture along the stunning Causeway Coast and Glens.

Fanad Head Lighthouse

Historic Fanad Head Lighthouse stands proudly on Donegal’s wild coast, offering panoramic Atlantic views, rich maritime history, and immersive tours.

4.7

Glenveagh National Park

Explore rugged mountains, a Victorian castle, and enchanting gardens in Ireland’s wild Glenveagh National Park.

4.8

St Columb's Cathedral

Derry’s oldest building and first post-Reformation cathedral, where history, silver, and song echo through centuries within the city walls.

4.6

Best landmarks in Derry

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The Derry Walls

Walk the 17th-century ramparts of Ireland’s only complete walled city, where centuries of history, sieges and resilience unfold with every step around the Maiden City.

4.7

Free Derry Corner

A gable wall bearing an iconic slogan that became a global symbol of resistance and civil rights.

4.7

St Augustine's Church of Ireland

A 1,500-year-old sanctuary where Saint Columba's monastery still echoes through the walls of Londonderry.

4.7

Bloody Sunday Monument

A solemn granite monument in Derry’s Bogside honoring the 14 victims of Bloody Sunday, symbolizing resilience and the quest for justice.

4.6

Best restaurants in Derry

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Artis Restaurant By Phelim O' Hagan

Experience refined Irish cuisine with a modern twist in Londonderry’s charming Craft Village at Artis Restaurant by Phelim O'Hagan.

4.9

Browns Bonds Hill

Experience innovative fine dining and art deco elegance at Browns Bonds Hill, Londonderry’s culinary gem showcasing local flavors and impeccable service.

4.7

Browns In Town

Modern Irish cuisine with a creative twist in a warm, casual setting on Londonderry’s Strand Road.

4.4

Fitzroy's

Theatrical bistro in Londonderry's city centre with inclusive cuisine and thoughtful service.

4.5

Best bars in Derry

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Blackbird

Blackbird is a lively Londonderry pub offering fine brews, a welcoming atmosphere, and a growing kitchen menu from midday to late night.

4.5

Guildhall Taphouse

Historic gastropub in Derry’s heart serving craft beers, cocktails, and live music in a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere.

4.4

Sandinos

Experience Londonderry’s dynamic live music and vibrant social scene at Sandinos, a beloved bar and café on historic Water Street.

4.6

The Thirsty Goat Derry

A lively bar and beer garden in Londonderry offering traditional Irish fare, craft beers, and live music seven nights a week.

4.2

Best nightclubs in Derry

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Dukes Bar

Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at Dukes Bar, where lively music, crafted cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere await.

4.3

izudoo Derry Pub & Night Club Guide

Experience the vibrant blend of traditional charm and modern nightlife at izudoo Derry Pub & Night Club Guide in the heart of Londonderry.

Ibiza Orchestra Live

Experience the electrifying fusion of live orchestral music and iconic Ibiza dance beats in Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife hotspot.

FIFTY SEVEN Waterloo St

Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at Fifty Seven Waterloo St, a chic nightclub pulsing with classic DJ beats and lively energy.

1.0

Best shops in Derry

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Craft Village

Discover Derry’s charming Craft Village: a historic artisan quarter blending local crafts, cozy cafes, and timeless Irish heritage in a picturesque setting.

4.7

Derry Designer Makers

A vibrant craft collective in Derry’s charming Craft Village, showcasing handmade jewellery, ceramics, textiles, art and more from local North West makers.

5.0

Dunnes Stores

Discover quality fashion and stylish homeware at Dunnes Stores, a trusted Irish retail icon in Londonderry’s vibrant Foyleside Shopping Centre.

4.5

The Yellow Yard

Discover vintage treasures, rare vinyl, and unique books in Londonderry’s vibrant and welcoming Yellow Yard market.

4.7

Explore Derry on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Derry, mapped for you.

Derry Essentials

Derry, officially known as Londonderry, is located in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. The nearest airport is City of Derry Airport, which offers flights from several UK cities. Alternatively, travelers can fly into Belfast International Airport or George Best Belfast City Airport, both approximately a 1.5 to 2-hour drive from Derry. From Belfast, buses and trains run regularly to Derry. If you're driving, Derry is accessible via the A6 and A5 road networks.
Derry is a compact city, making it easy to explore on foot. Public transportation is available in the form of buses operated by Translink, which connect different parts of the city. Taxis are also widely available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. For those wanting to explore the surrounding countryside, renting a car is a convenient option.
The currency used in Derry is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most places, but it's advisable to carry some cash for smaller establishments or for use in markets. ATMs are readily available throughout the city.
Derry is generally a safe city for tourists. However, like any urban area, it's wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. The Bogside and Creggan neighborhoods have historically had higher crime rates, so visitors should be cautious and stay informed about current events. Always be aware of your surroundings and keep personal belongings secure.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 or 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. Altnagelvin Area Hospital provides comprehensive medical services. It's advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses during your visit.
Fashion: Do dress in layers as weather can be unpredictable. Avoid overly casual attire when dining in upscale restaurants. Religion: Do respect the religious sites, and if visiting a church, ensure you dress modestly. Public Transport: Do stand on the left and pass on the right on escalators. Don't be loud or disruptive on buses and trains. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi'. A handshake is common during formal introductions. Eating & Drinking: Do try the local dishes such as Irish stew and soda bread. Don't skip the chance to enjoy a pint of Guinness or a local brew.
To experience Derry like a local, consider visiting during the Halloween festival, known as one of the best in the world. Walk the historic city walls for a unique perspective of the city. Engage with locals in pubs where traditional Irish music is played. Don't miss a visit to the Guildhall and the Tower Museum for insights into the city's history.

When is the best time to visit Derry?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Derry

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Derry. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHows it goin'
  [Hows it goin']
- GoodbyeSee ya later
  [See ya later]
- YesAye
  [Aye]
- NoNah
  [Nah]
- Please/You're welcomeNo bother
  [No bother]
- Thank youThanks a million
  [Thanks a million]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [Sorry]
- How are you?Howya?
  [Howya?]
- Fine. And you?Grand, and yerself?
  [Grand, and yerself?]
- Do you speak English?Do ya speak English?
  [Do ya speak English?]
- I don't understandI dinna understand
  [I dinna understand]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
  [Can I see the menu, please?]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [I don't eat meat]
- Cheers!Sláinte!
  [Sláinte!]
- I would like to pay, pleaseI'd like to settle up, please
  [I'd like to settle up, please]
- Help!Help!
  [Help!]
- Go away!Clear off!
  [Clear off!]
- Call the Police!Call the cops!
  [Call the cops!]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [Get a doctor!]
- I'm lostI'm a bit lost
  [I'm a bit lost]
- I'm illI'm not feelin' well
  [I'm not feelin' well]
- I'd like to buy...I want to buy...
  [I want to buy...]
- I'm just lookingJust lookin'
  [Just lookin']
- How much is it?How much's that?
  [How much's that?]
- That's too expensiveThat's a bit dear
  [That's a bit dear]
- Can you lower the price?Can ya knock the price down?
  [Can ya knock the price down?]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [What time is it?]
- It's one o'clockIt's one o'clock
  [It's one o'clock]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [Half ten]
- MorningMornin'
  [Mornin']
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [Afternoon]
- EveningEvenin'
  [Evenin']
- YesterdayYesterday
  [Yesterday]
- TodayToday
  [Today]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [Tomorrow]
- 1One
  [One]
- 2Two
  [Two]
- 3Three
  [Three]
- 4Four
  [Four]
- 5Five
  [Five]
- 6Six
  [Six]
- 7Seven
  [Seven]
- 8Eight
  [Eight]
- 9Nine
  [Nine]
- 10Ten
  [Ten]
- Where's a/the...?Where's the...?
  [Where's the...?]
- What's the address?What's the address?
  [What's the address?]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ya show me on the map?
  [Can ya show me on the map?]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next bus?
  [When's the next bus?]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket to...
  [A ticket to...]

History of Derry

Derry, also known as Londonderry, has a rich history that dates back to the 6th century. It was originally known as Doire, meaning 'oak grove,' and was founded as a monastic settlement by Saint Columba in 546 AD. This site on the River Foyle became an important ecclesiastical center and laid the foundation for Derry's future development.
In the early 17th century, the Plantation of Ulster marked a significant period in Derry's history. This was an organized colonization of the province of Ulster by people from Great Britain. In 1613, the city was granted a royal charter and renamed Londonderry, reflecting the involvement of the London guilds in its development. The fortified walls around Derry were built during this time and still stand today, making it one of the few remaining completely walled cities in Europe.
One of the most famous events in Derry's history is the Siege of Derry, which took place in 1689. During the Williamite War in Ireland, Protestant inhabitants of the city closed the gates against the Catholic forces of King James II. The siege lasted for 105 days, from April to August, and resulted in significant hardship for the city's residents. The lifting of the siege is celebrated annually with the 'Relief of Derry' celebrations.
The Industrial Revolution in the 19th century brought significant changes to Derry. The city's location on the River Foyle made it a prime spot for shipbuilding and textile manufacturing, particularly shirt-making. This industrial growth led to an increase in population and urban development, shaping the modern city we see today.
Derry played a central role during the period known as The Troubles, a conflict that spanned from the late 1960s to 1998. The city was the site of the infamous Bloody Sunday incident on January 30, 1972, when British soldiers shot unarmed civil rights protesters, resulting in 14 deaths. This tragic event became a pivotal moment in the Northern Ireland conflict and is commemorated annually.
In recent years, Derry has experienced a cultural renaissance. In 2013, it was named the inaugural UK City of Culture, which highlighted its vibrant arts scene, historical landmarks, and the resilience of its people. This recognition has helped to promote tourism and foster a renewed sense of pride among its residents.