Waterside Theatre, Derry/Londonderry
A converted factory turned vibrant arts hub in Derry/Londonderry, hosting theatre, cinema, gallery shows and community events by the River Foyle.
Housed in a converted factory on the banks of the River Foyle, Waterside Theatre is Derry/Londonderry’s vibrant arts and entertainment hub. With a 372‑seat auditorium, cinema, gallery, and café-bar, it hosts drama, dance, comedy, live music, and children’s shows year‑round. The theatre also runs an extensive education programme and offers breakout rooms for conferences and events, making it a cultural anchor in the city’s Waterside district.
A brief summary to The Hills Church, Derry
- Waterside Theatre, Glendermott Rd, Londonderry, Londonderry, BT47 6BG, GB
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 4 hours
- Mid ranged
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Mixed
- Mobile reception: 5 out of 5
Local tips
- Check the theatre’s website or box office for the latest programme; performances, films and gallery exhibitions change frequently, and advance booking is recommended for popular shows.
- Arrive early to enjoy a drink in the café‑bar and browse the Cascade Gallery; the space often features striking local artwork that enhances the cultural experience.
- Wheelchair users and those with limited mobility should contact the box office in advance; Row A is usually reserved for accessible seating, and staff can help plan the best arrival and access route.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Public bus
Regular city buses serve the Waterside area; from Derry/Londonderry city centre, the journey takes about 10–15 minutes. The theatre is a short walk from the main Waterside bus stops, with level access along the main approach.
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Car
Drive to Glendermott Road in the Waterside district; the theatre has free on‑site parking. The route from the city centre takes roughly 5–10 minutes, depending on traffic, and the site is clearly signed.
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Walking
From Derry/Londonderry city centre, it’s about a 20‑minute walk along the riverbank or through the Waterside district. The route is mostly flat and well‑lit, suitable for most walkers in good weather.
The Hills Church, Derry location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about The Hills Church, Derry
A Converted Factory with a Cultural Mission
Nestled in Derry/Londonderry’s Waterside district, Waterside Theatre occupies a thoughtfully repurposed old factory building, its industrial bones softened by modern design and warm lighting. The venue opened with a powerful social purpose: to bring Protestant and Catholic children together through shared cultural experiences during the Troubles, and that spirit of community and inclusion still shapes its programming today. Inside, the 372‑seat auditorium is tiered and flexible, equipped with professional lighting, sound, and an HD screen, making it equally suited to intimate plays, lively concerts, and full‑scale musicals.Arts, Cinema and Gallery Under One Roof
The theatre’s main stage presents a diverse programme of drama, dance, comedy, live music, and children’s theatre, drawing both local talent and touring acts. Alongside live performance, Waterside functions as a full‑screen cinema, screening mainstream and independent films. Within the same complex, the Cascade Gallery offers over 32 metres of hanging space for a commercial gallery that supports local and visiting artists. This blend of theatre, film, and visual art creates a rich cultural ecosystem where audiences can enjoy everything from a family matinee to an opening night in the gallery.A Hub for Learning and Events
Beyond its public shows, Waterside Theatre runs an extensive education programme that complements its artistic offerings, catering to everyone from preschoolers to senior citizens. Workshops, classes, and outreach projects encourage participation across all ages and backgrounds. The venue also serves as a practical events space, with several breakout rooms available for hire for conferences, meetings, and private functions. These rooms are equipped with AV capabilities, internet, and staging, making Waterside a popular choice for both cultural and corporate gatherings in the city.Practical Amenities and Atmosphere
Visitors find the theatre welcoming and well‑equipped: free on‑site parking, a fully licensed café‑bar and lounge bar, and accessible facilities including wheelchair access and designated seating. The atmosphere is relaxed yet professional, ideal for an evening out or a daytime event. Whether attending a play, catching a film, browsing an exhibition, or attending a workshop, guests experience a space that feels both contemporary and deeply rooted in Derry/Londonderry’s social and artistic life.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Haslett Monumental Sculptors
0.1 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
0.3 km
A welcoming evangelical chapel offering spiritual reflection and community fellowship in Londonderry.
The Clock Tower
0.3 km
Historic Clock Tower at Ebrington Square, a timeless symbol of Londonderry’s military heritage and vibrant city life.
Cornerstone City Church
0.6 km
A vibrant community in Londonderry offering worship, outreach, and hope through faith and compassionate service.
Bogside History Tours
0.8 km
Discover Londonderry's captivating history with Bogside History Tours, where every street tells a story and every mural speaks volumes.
City Walking Tours
0.8 km
Discover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Londonderry with engaging guided walking tours exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Ferryquay Gate Derry City Walls
0.8 km
Step through the gate that started the Siege of Derry and walk the ramparts of one of Europe’s finest walled cities.
Magazine Gate Derry City Walls
0.8 km
Explore Magazine Gate, the newest historic entrance to Derry’s iconic walled city, offering riverfront access and rich 19th-century heritage.
BRICKWORK BAR
0.9 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Brickwork Bar in Londonderry, where local culture and friendly faces create an unforgettable atmosphere.
War Memorial
0.9 km
A solemn tribute to the fallen, standing at the heart of Derry's historic walled city since 1927.
Double Bastion
1.2 km
Historic fortress bastion on Derry’s city walls, home to the legendary Roaring Meg cannon and panoramic views over the Bogside.
Things To Do
2.3 km
Explore the vibrant history and stunning landscapes of Londonderry with unforgettable tours that bring the city's rich culture to life.
Wild Ireland
6.5 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
18.5 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
21.6 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
Waterside Theatre
0.0 km
Londonderry's premier performing arts venue in a converted factory, hosting diverse theatre, dance, music, and cultural festivals year-round.
International School For Peace Studies
0.0 km
Study peace in a place that lived it—immersive education in conflict resolution and social justice.
Good Shepherd Sisters
0.3 km
A historic convent in Londonderry offering spiritual refuge and a legacy of compassionate service to women and children.
Walled City Brewery
0.3 km
Family-run craft brewery and restaurant in historic Ebrington Square, serving artisan beers and locally inspired dishes in vibrant Derry.
Ebrington Greenway
0.3 km
A tranquil riverside walk through history and nature, connecting Ebrington's regenerated heritage to the water's edge.
Ebrington Square
0.4 km
Historic military grounds reborn as a vibrant cultural plaza with river views, art, dining, and events in the heart of Londonderry.
The Peace Bridge
0.6 km
A stunning pedestrian bridge in Derry symbolizing peace and unity across the River Foyle, linking divided communities with elegant design.
Foyle Embankment
0.6 km
A scenic riverside promenade in Londonderry blending history, nature, and vibrant community life along the River Foyle.
Foyle Arena
0.6 km
Londonderry’s premier leisure centre offering swimming, fitness, climbing, and event spaces for all ages and interests.
St Columb's Church
0.6 km
A welcoming Catholic parish church serving Londonderry's Waterside community with deep spiritual roots.
Derry Bike Tours
0.7 km
Guided bike tours revealing Derry's historic walls, vibrant neighborhoods, and scenic landscapes through local expertise.
St Columb's Park
0.7 km
A historic 70-acre park blending natural beauty, heritage, and modern recreation on the banks of the River Foyle in Londonderry.
St Columb's Hall
0.7 km
Historic Londonderry concert hall blending rich cultural heritage with vibrant contemporary arts in a stunning Baroque-inspired setting.
Peace Flame
0.7 km
An enduring symbol of peace and unity in Londonderry, ignited by hope and remembrance.
Derry Girls Mural
0.8 km
Celebrate the spirit of Derry with the vibrant, award-winning Derry Girls Mural—an iconic tribute to laughter, history, and local pride.
Essential places to dine
Browns Bonds Hill
0.4 km
Experience culinary artistry at Browns Bonds Hill, where fine dining meets local flavors in Londonderry's stunning landscape.
The Embankment Bar & Grill
0.4 km
Riverside dining excellence with generous portions, craft cocktails, and attentive service in Londonderry.
The Sooty Olive
0.4 km
A stylish, locally inspired restaurant in Londonderry offering fresh, creative dishes in a relaxed, modern setting.
STITCH & WEAVE
0.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of local flavors and vibrant nightlife at STITCH & WEAVE in Londonderry.
The Ritz Bar & Bistro
0.7 km
Discover flavorful grill delights at The Ritz Bar & Bistro in Londonderry - where culinary excellence meets warm hospitality.
Badgers Bar and Restaurant
0.7 km
Lively and welcoming pub-restaurant in the heart of Londonderry, famed for local flavors and the iconic Derry Girls mural.
The Pig N Frog Bistro
0.8 km
Savor hearty Northern Irish breakfasts and lunches in a warm, inviting bistro nestled in the heart of Londonderry.
Fitzroy's
0.8 km
Theatrical bistro in Londonderry's city centre with inclusive cuisine and thoughtful service.
The Bentley Bar
0.8 km
Savor delicious grilled dishes at The Bentley Bar - where flavor meets atmosphere in Londonderry.
River Inn
0.8 km
Derry’s oldest bar since 1684, The River Inn blends historic charm with lively entertainment and warm hospitality on Shipquay Street.
Guildhall Taphouse
0.8 km
Experience the heart of Londonderry's culinary scene at Guildhall Taphouse, where tradition meets innovation in every dish.
Jamm
0.8 km
Cozy café offering fresh wraps, vegan delights, and great tea in the historic heart of Londonderry.
La Sosta Restaurant
0.8 km
Elegant modern Italian dining in Londonderry with authentic flavors, warm hospitality, and an extensive wine selection.
Cedar Restaurant
0.8 km
Experience authentic Lebanese cuisine in a warm, intimate setting with friendly service at Cedar Restaurant in Londonderry.
Shipquay Restaurant
0.8 km
Refined Irish dining in a historic boutique hotel overlooking Derry’s iconic City Walls and Guildhall.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Nearby
0.4 km
Explore County Londonderry’s rich history, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture in Northern Ireland’s scenic northwest.
Elkstone
0.5 km
Discover unique clothing and shoes at Elkstone, a stylish shop nestled in Londonderry’s historic Distillery Brae district.
House of Fraser
0.7 km
Discover fashion, beauty, and homewares at Londonderry’s premier House of Fraser in the vibrant Foyleside Centre.
Edinburgh Woollen Mill
0.7 km
Classic British knitwear and woollens with a rich heritage, offering timeless style and quality in Londonderry’s Orchard Street.
Angry Cherry
0.7 km
Londonderry's premier pop culture destination for comics, gaming, anime, and entertainment collectibles since 2013.
Next
0.7 km
Next at Foyleside offers stylish fashion and homeware in Londonderry’s premier shopping centre with excellent amenities and a lively atmosphere.
Monsoon & Accessorize
0.7 km
Discover stylish ladies' fashion and unique accessories at Monsoon & Accessorize, nestled in Londonderry’s vibrant Foyleside Shopping Centre.
Dunnes Stores
0.7 km
Discover quality fashion and stylish homeware at Dunnes Stores, a trusted Irish retail icon in Londonderry’s vibrant Foyleside Shopping Centre.
The Bus Stop Stores
0.7 km
Discover convenience in Londonderry at The Bus Stop Stores, your go-to spot for snacks, drinks, and travel essentials.
River Island
0.7 km
Trendy, accessible fashion for all ages in the heart of Londonderry’s bustling Foyleside Shopping Centre.
Primark
0.8 km
Affordable fashion meets historic charm at Primark in Londonderry’s Former Rialto Theatre on Newmarket Street.
City Souvenirs
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and local crafts at City Souvenirs, the heart of Londonderry's vibrant shopping scene.
Yellowmoon Clothing
0.8 km
Discover unique designer fashion for men and women at Yellowmoon Clothing, Londonderry’s stylish boutique on Shipquay Street.
Just Feckin Gifts
0.8 km
Discover quirky gifts and local charm at Just Feckin Gifts, Londonderry’s vibrant boutique for unique treasures and souvenirs.
Occasions
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and charming souvenirs at Occasions, Londonderry's premier gift shop for all your celebratory needs.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Glen Bar
0.3 km
A welcoming and affordable bar on Dungiven Road offering authentic Irish pub charm and the best Guinness in Londonderry.
Harry's Bar
0.3 km
A vibrant and welcoming bar in Londonderry’s Waterside, perfect for lively socializing and casual evenings with friends.
Sandinos
0.6 km
Experience Londonderry’s dynamic live music and vibrant social scene at Sandinos, a beloved bar and café on historic Water Street.
Blackbird
0.7 km
Blackbird is a lively Londonderry pub offering fine brews, a welcoming atmosphere, and a growing kitchen menu from midday to late night.
Porter's Bar
0.7 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively heart of Londonderry at Porter's Bar.
The Thirsty Goat Derry
0.8 km
A lively bar and beer garden in Londonderry offering traditional Irish fare, craft beers, and live music seven nights a week.
Silver Street Derry
0.8 km
Historic charm and lively modern lounge vibes converge at Silver Street Derry, part of the iconic River Inn since 1684.
Dukes Bar
0.9 km
Londonderry’s vibrant bar and nightclub offering exceptional Guinness, creative cocktails, and a lively social scene in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Masons Bar
0.9 km
Experience authentic local charm and warm hospitality at Masons Bar, a cozy and affordable retreat in the heart of Londonderry.
Dungloe Bar
0.9 km
Historic Irish pub since 1892, offering live music, hearty food, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of Londonderry’s Waterloo Street.
Lizzie O'Farrell's
0.9 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.
Nacional de Cuba
0.9 km
A vibrant and welcoming cocktail bar in Londonderry, famed for its lively karaoke nights, eclectic music, and expertly crafted drinks.
Grand Central Bar
1.0 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.
The Trinity Bar
1.0 km
A lively Londonderry bar blending traditional Irish charm with unique decor, great drinks, and hearty local fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
Jack's Bar
1.0 km
Experience authentic Northern Irish hospitality and hearty pub fare in the cozy and lively Jack's Bar at Londonderry's Little James Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ibiza Orchestra Live
0.4 km
Experience the electrifying fusion of live orchestral music and iconic Ibiza dance beats in Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife hotspot.
FIFTY SEVEN Waterloo St
0.9 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
1.9 km
Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at izudoo — a lively pub and nightclub with great music, drinks, and unforgettable nights out.
Carrolls
19.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Carrolls in Buncrana, Co. Donegal, where exceptional drinks and music create unforgettable memories.
XOX Strabane
21.3 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
21.7 km
Discover the heart of Co. Donegal's nightlife at Bailey Redcastle Nite Club, where great music and vibrant energy await your arrival.
Halyon Club
27.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Halyon Club in Ballynally, Co. Donegal, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
PULSE VENUE
27.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at PULSE VENUE, Letterkenny's premier night club offering live music and unforgettable dance parties.
Fifth Avenue Letterkenny
27.6 km
Dive into the heart of Letterkenny's nightlife at Fifth Avenue, where vibrant music and lively dance floors create unforgettable moments.
Voodoo Venue
28.0 km
Experience the electric nightlife of Letterkenny at Voodoo Venue, where cocktails, live music, and vibrant energy await every visitor.
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
40.2 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
44.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Vault Nightclub in Omagh, where music, dancing, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Tiger Lillys
44.1 km
Omagh’s vibrant jungle-themed nightclub offering fresh cocktails and lively nights exclusively for the 18+ crowd.
The Legends Lounge
47.1 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
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Relaxing
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Industrial Designs
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Modern
- Art & Design
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Festival / Event Nearby
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly
