Museum of Free Derry – The Bloody Sunday Trust
A powerful community museum in Derry’s Bogside, telling the story of civil rights, Free Derry and Bloody Sunday through personal testimonies and original artefacts.
Located in Derry’s Bogside, the Museum of Free Derry, often called the Bloody Sunday Museum, tells the powerful story of the civil rights movement, Free Derry, and the 1972 Bloody Sunday massacre. Through personal testimonies, original artefacts, and multimedia exhibits, it presents a community’s perspective on a pivotal chapter of Northern Ireland’s history. The museum is rooted in local memory, with many items donated by families affected by the events it documents.
A brief summary to Bloody Sunday Trust
- 55-61 Glenfada Park, Londonderry, BT48 9DR, GB
- +442871360880
- Duration: 1 to 2 hours
- Mid ranged
-
Mixed
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit the museum before or after a Bogside walking tour to fully understand the context of the murals and memorials in the area.
- Allow time to absorb the exhibits; the museum is emotionally intense, and many visitors find it helpful to pause and reflect between sections.
- Check the museum’s website for special events, talks or temporary exhibitions that may be running during your visit.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
-
Walking
From Derry’s city centre, walk south along Rossville Street from the area near the city walls; the museum is a few minutes’ walk, located in Glenfada Park just off Rossville Street in the Bogside.
-
Public Transport
Local bus services stop near the city centre; from there, it is a short walk south along Rossville Street into the Bogside to reach the museum.
-
Car
Limited on-street parking is available in the surrounding residential streets of the Bogside; parking can be tight, especially during peak visiting times and commemorative events.
Bloody Sunday Trust location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Bloody Sunday Trust
A People’s Story of Resistance
Tucked into Glenfada Park in Derry’s Bogside, the Museum of Free Derry stands as a deeply personal and political space dedicated to the civil rights struggle and the creation of Free Derry in the late 1960s and early 1970s. Run by the Bloody Sunday Trust, the museum emerged from a community determined to preserve its own narrative of oppression, resistance, and resilience. It frames the story not as distant history, but as a lived experience of a working-class Catholic community that challenged systemic discrimination and state violence. The exhibits trace the rise of the civil rights movement, the Battle of the Bogside in 1969, internment without trial, and the emergence of the Free Derry enclave, where residents barricaded streets and asserted self-rule.Confronting Bloody Sunday
The museum’s heart is its detailed account of Bloody Sunday, 30 January 1972, when British soldiers shot dead 13 unarmed civilians during a civil rights march, with another dying later from injuries. The exhibition walks visitors through the day’s events with precision: maps showing where each victim fell, panels describing the political context, and audio and video testimonies from survivors, relatives, and witnesses. Among the most affecting displays are original artefacts – bloodied bandages, clothing with bullet holes, and spent ammunition – donated by families. These objects transform statistics into intimate, human loss, making the scale of the tragedy viscerally real. The museum also documents the immediate aftermath, including Operation Motorman, when the British Army retook Free Derry with overwhelming force.From Injustice to Justice
A powerful section traces the decades-long campaign for truth and accountability after Bloody Sunday. It contrasts the initial Widgery Tribunal, which largely exonerated the soldiers, with the later Saville Inquiry, whose ten-volume report in 2010 conclusively found that the victims were innocent and that the killings were unjustified. The museum displays copies of both reports, underscoring how a community’s persistence can eventually shift official narratives. This section also explores the broader impact of Bloody Sunday on Northern Irish society, the peace process, and international perceptions of state violence. It presents the struggle not only as a local fight for justice but as part of a wider global movement for human rights and conflict transformation.Memory, Identity and the Bogside
Beyond a single event, the museum situates Bloody Sunday within the larger story of the Bogside as a crucible of The Troubles. It examines how the area became a symbol of resistance and how its identity continues to shape Derry today. The museum sees itself as a space for community identity, education, and dialogue, encouraging visitors to reflect on themes of freedom, equality, and the cost of conflict. Its archive, built largely from donations by local residents, contains over 25,000 items, from photographs and documents to personal mementos, creating a rich tapestry of grassroots history. This emphasis on local voices ensures that the museum remains grounded in the lived experience of those who lived through these events.Visiting the Museum Today
The Museum of Free Derry is housed in a modern, purpose-built building that reopened after extensive redevelopment, offering a full multimedia experience. Visitors encounter a mix of text panels, photographs, audio recordings, and video interviews that together create a layered and immersive narrative. The museum is compact but intense, designed to be emotionally and intellectually engaging rather than overwhelming. It is often combined with a walking tour of the Bogside’s murals and memorials, which provide a powerful visual counterpart to the museum’s story. The museum also hosts temporary exhibitions, talks, and events that connect past struggles with contemporary issues of human rights and social justice, reinforcing its role as a living, evolving space of memory and reflection.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
BRICKWORK BAR
0.2 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Brickwork Bar in Londonderry, where local culture and friendly faces create an unforgettable atmosphere.
War Memorial
0.3 km
A solemn tribute to the fallen, standing at the heart of Derry's historic walled city since 1927.
Magazine Gate Derry City Walls
0.3 km
Explore Magazine Gate, the newest historic entrance to Derry’s iconic walled city, offering riverfront access and rich 19th-century heritage.
Bogside History Tours
0.4 km
Discover Londonderry's captivating history with Bogside History Tours, where every street tells a story and every mural speaks volumes.
Double Bastion
0.4 km
Historic fortress bastion on Derry’s city walls, home to the legendary Roaring Meg cannon and panoramic views over the Bogside.
Ferryquay Gate Derry City Walls
0.4 km
Step through the gate that started the Siege of Derry and walk the ramparts of one of Europe’s finest walled cities.
City Walking Tours
0.5 km
Discover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Londonderry with engaging guided walking tours exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
The Clock Tower
0.9 km
Historic Clock Tower at Ebrington Square, a timeless symbol of Londonderry’s military heritage and vibrant city life.
Cornerstone City Church
1.0 km
A vibrant community in Londonderry offering worship, outreach, and hope through faith and compassionate service.
Haslett Monumental Sculptors
1.0 km
Explore the artistry and heritage of memorial craftsmanship at Haslett Monumental Sculptors in Londonderry, where memories are beautifully carved in stone.
Lapwing Way Gospel Hall
1.4 km
A welcoming evangelical chapel offering spiritual reflection and community fellowship in Londonderry.
Things To Do
3.1 km
Explore the vibrant history and stunning landscapes of Londonderry with unforgettable tours that bring the city's rich culture to life.
Wild Ireland
6.1 km
Explore Wild Ireland, where you can encounter native wildlife in stunning natural surroundings, perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Amazing Grace Viewing Point
17.8 km
Where a storm‑tossed sailor found grace and penned one of the world’s most beloved hymns, overlooking the waters of Lough Swilly in Buncrana.
Oakfield Park
20.8 km
Experience the serene beauty of Oakfield Park in Donegal, a stunning garden retreat perfect for nature lovers and families seeking tranquility.
Unmissable attractions to see
Rossville St
0.0 km
Rossville Street in Londonderry stands as a vivid canvas of history, murals, and memories from the heart of the Bogside’s civil rights struggle.
Museum of Free Derry
0.0 km
Explore the powerful history and enduring spirit of Derry’s civil rights movement at the Museum of Free Derry.
Bloody Sunday Monument
0.1 km
Visit the Bloody Sunday Monument in Londonderry to honor the victims of a tragic event and immerse yourself in the rich history of Northern Ireland.
Peoples Gallery
0.2 km
A striking open-air mural gallery in Londonderry commemorating the Northern Ireland Troubles through powerful art by the Bogside Artists.
Lisfannon Park
0.2 km
A peaceful coastal park in Londonderry with golden sands, scenic views, and rich birdlife, perfect for family outings and nature lovers.
Free Derry Corner
0.2 km
Discover Free Derry Corner, a historic landmark in Londonderry embodying the spirit of resilience and civil rights through its iconic murals.
First Derry Presbyterian Church
0.2 km
A historic Presbyterian church in Derry~Londonderry, rooted in the city’s 1690 siege and offering quiet reflection in a central urban setting.
Apprentice Boy's Memorial Hall
0.2 km
Historic memorial and cultural hub honoring the apprentice boys who defended Londonderry during the 1688 siege.
The Siege Museum
0.2 km
Explore the dramatic 1689 Siege of Derry through immersive exhibits and heritage rooms honoring the city’s enduring legacy.
The Derry Walls
0.2 km
Discover the rich history and stunning vistas at The Derry Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Londonderry, Northern Ireland.
Peadar O'Donnell's
0.2 km
Experience authentic Irish music and warm hospitality in Londonderry’s iconic Peadar O'Donnell's pub, where tradition meets lively nightlife.
St Augustine's Church of Ireland
0.2 km
Discover the serene neo-Gothic St Augustine's Church, a historic spiritual oasis nestled on Londonderry’s ancient city walls.
Visit Derry
0.3 km
Your welcoming gateway to Derry’s history, culture, and tours, offering expert advice and interactive experiences in the heart of the Walled City.
Derrie Danders Walking and Audio Tours
0.3 km
Discover Londonderry’s rich history and culture through engaging, historically accurate walking and audio tours led by passionate local guide David Douglas.
The Yellow Yard
0.3 km
Discover Londonderry’s vibrant vintage market blending unique finds, local art, and a lively atmosphere on Palace Street.
Essential places to dine
The Rocking Chair
0.1 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Rocking Chair in Londonderry - where great food meets live music in a charming pub setting.
SPAGHETTI JUNCTION
0.1 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively evenings at Spaghetti Junction, Londonderry’s beloved Mediterranean restaurant.
Mekong
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Vietnamese fusion cuisine with fresh flavors and friendly service in the heart of Londonderry’s cultural district.
Castle Street Social
0.2 km
A lively social restaurant in Derry serving innovative local dishes, vegan and gluten-free options, with a vibrant bar and welcoming atmosphere.
Tracy's Bar
0.2 km
Discover Tracy's Bar in Londonderry – a lively restaurant and bar perfect for enjoying delicious food and drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
El Tapas Grá
0.2 km
Experience vibrant Catalan-inspired tapas crafted with fresh Irish ingredients in a warm, rustic setting in the heart of Derry.
The Scullery Cafe
0.2 km
Charming artisan café in Londonderry serving fresh Irish breakfasts, lunches, and homemade treats in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Social Studio Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience innovative cuisine and crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting at Social Studio Restaurant, Londonderry’s culinary gem.
The Dirty Souls
0.3 km
Savor authentic Southern BBQ and soulful flavors with expertly smoked meats and creative cocktails in the heart of Londonderry.
Artis Restaurant By Phelim O' Hagan
0.3 km
Discover exquisite Irish cuisine at Artis Restaurant in Londonderry's Craft Village—where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry.
COUPE by The Dirty Souls - Smokehouse/BBQ
0.3 km
Authentic Texas-style BBQ in the heart of Londonderry, serving smoked meats, bold sauces, and craft drinks in a vibrant smokehouse setting.
The Gown Restaurant
0.3 km
Experience refined Irish cuisine in a historic setting with seasonally inspired dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients in Derry’s Cathedral Quarter.
Browns In Town
0.3 km
Modern Irish cuisine with a creative twist in a warm, casual setting on Londonderry’s Strand Road.
Shipquay Restaurant
0.3 km
Refined Irish dining in a historic boutique hotel overlooking Derry’s iconic City Walls and Guildhall.
Hidden City Cafe
0.3 km
Ethical family café in Londonderry offering creative, plant-based cuisine with local ingredients and a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harmony
0.2 km
Discover unique gifts and wellness treasures at Harmony, a charming boutique in the heart of Londonderry’s vibrant shopping district.
Moments Gift Shop
0.2 km
Explore Moments Gift Shop in Londonderry for unique gifts and local wedding essentials, blending culture with creativity in every purchase.
Pippa
0.2 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Pippa, Londonderry's chic boutique, your go-to for stylish clothing and local fashion finds.
Storefront
0.2 km
Discover premium Irish-designed clothing and unique styles at Storefront, Londonderry’s independent fashion boutique on Waterloo Street.
The Holy Shop
0.2 km
A welcoming sanctuary in Londonderry offering a rich selection of religious goods and spiritual gifts for all faith milestones.
The Irish Gift Centre
0.2 km
Authentic Irish crafts and Celtic treasures in the heart of Londonderry’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Irish Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic Irish crafts and heritage treasures in the heart of Derry’s charming Craft Village.
The Donegal Shop
0.3 km
Discover authentic Irish crafts and timeless knitwear in Derry’s family-run Donegal Shop, a heritage hub for Celtic artistry since 1963.
Derry Designer Makers
0.3 km
A vibrant craft collective in Derry’s charming Craft Village, showcasing handmade jewellery, ceramics, textiles, art and more from local North West makers.
Number 19 Craft & Design
0.3 km
Discover exquisite handmade crafts by local artisans in the charming historic setting of Derry’s Craft Village.
Walled City Crafters
0.3 km
Discover authentic local crafts and handmade treasures in Derry’s charming 18th-century Craft Village.
Vine Living Home and Gift Shop
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares blending Irish tradition and modern style in the heart of Londonderry.
The Sacred Tree
0.3 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and local craftsmanship at The Sacred Tree, nestled in Derry’s historic Craft Village.
BELLE & ROSE
0.3 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and artistic charm at Belle & Rose, Londonderry’s boutique for meaningful presents.
Little Acorns Bookstore
0.3 km
Discover Derry’s largest independent bookstore, a vibrant cultural hub with 25,000+ books, Ireland’s only Typewriter Museum, and a welcoming community space.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lizzie O'Farrell's
0.2 km
Experience the lively spirit of Londonderry at Lizzie O'Farrell's, a warm pub blending traditional Irish charm with vibrant live music and local brews.
Dungloe Bar
0.2 km
Historic Irish pub since 1892, offering live music, hearty food, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of Londonderry’s Waterloo Street.
Masons Bar
0.2 km
Experience authentic local charm and warm hospitality at Masons Bar, a cozy and affordable retreat in the heart of Londonderry.
Nacional de Cuba
0.2 km
A vibrant and welcoming cocktail bar in Londonderry, famed for its lively karaoke nights, eclectic music, and expertly crafted drinks.
Jack's Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic Northern Irish hospitality and hearty pub fare in the cozy and lively Jack's Bar at Londonderry's Little James Street.
Grand Central Bar
0.3 km
A lively and affordable local pub on Strand Road, Grand Central Bar offers a warm atmosphere and friendly service in the heart of Londonderry.
Silver Street Derry
0.3 km
Historic charm and lively modern lounge vibes converge at Silver Street Derry, part of the iconic River Inn since 1684.
The Derby Bar
0.3 km
A warm, inviting pub in Londonderry offering cozy snugs, excellent Guinness, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere daily until midnight.
The Thirsty Goat Derry
0.3 km
A lively bar and beer garden in Londonderry offering traditional Irish fare, craft beers, and live music seven nights a week.
Tinney's Bar & The Shirt Factory
0.3 km
Historic family-owned Irish pub in Londonderry famed for legendary Guinness, lively local atmosphere, and shirt factory heritage.
The Trinity Bar
0.4 km
A lively Londonderry bar blending traditional Irish charm with unique decor, great drinks, and hearty local fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Park Bar
0.4 km
A historic family-run pub in Londonderry renowned for its warm hospitality, excellent Guinness, and vibrant Irish cultural nights.
Porter's Bar
0.4 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively heart of Londonderry at Porter's Bar.
Blackbird
0.5 km
Blackbird is a lively Londonderry pub offering fine brews, a welcoming atmosphere, and a growing kitchen menu from midday to late night.
Sandinos
0.5 km
Experience Londonderry’s dynamic live music and vibrant social scene at Sandinos, a beloved bar and café on historic Water Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
FIFTY SEVEN Waterloo St
0.2 km
Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at Fifty Seven Waterloo St, a chic nightclub pulsing with classic DJ beats and lively energy.
izudoo Derry Pub & Night Club Guide
0.9 km
Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at izudoo — a lively pub and nightclub with great music, drinks, and unforgettable nights out.
Ibiza Orchestra Live
0.9 km
Experience the electrifying fusion of live orchestral music and iconic Ibiza dance beats in Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife hotspot.
Carrolls
18.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Carrolls in Buncrana, Co. Donegal, where exceptional drinks and music create unforgettable memories.
XOX Strabane
20.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Strabane at XOX, the town’s premier nightclub for late-night music, dancing, and social energy.
Bailey Redcastle Nite Club
22.2 km
Discover the heart of Co. Donegal's nightlife at Bailey Redcastle Nite Club, where great music and vibrant energy await your arrival.
PULSE VENUE
26.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at PULSE VENUE, Letterkenny's premier night club offering live music and unforgettable dance parties.
Fifth Avenue Letterkenny
26.5 km
Dive into the heart of Letterkenny's nightlife at Fifth Avenue, where vibrant music and lively dance floors create unforgettable moments.
Voodoo Venue
26.9 km
Experience the electric nightlife of Letterkenny at Voodoo Venue, where cocktails, live music, and vibrant energy await every visitor.
Halyon Club
28.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Halyon Club in Ballynally, Co. Donegal, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Tul Na Ri
28.5 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Co. Donegal at Tul Na Ri, where great music, dancing, and a friendly atmosphere await.
Empire Club
39.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Donegal at Empire Club, where great music and unforgettable experiences await you in a lively atmosphere.
The Vault Nightclub
44.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Vault Nightclub in Omagh, where music, dancing, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Tiger Lillys
44.3 km
Omagh’s vibrant jungle-themed nightclub offering fresh cocktails and lively nights exclusively for the 18+ crowd.
The Legends Lounge
48.0 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Legends Lounge in Portrush, a perfect bar for enjoying drinks and local culture.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Landmarks
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Business Friendly
