The Rocking Chair, Derry Travel Guide

Free Guide: A lively gastropub and live music bar in Londonderry offering hearty food, refreshing drinks, and a vibrant social atmosphere.

A brief summary of The Rocking Chair

A lively gastropub and live music bar in Londonderry offering hearty food, refreshing drinks, and a vibrant social atmosphere.

Located at 15-17 Waterloo Street in Londonderry, The Rocking Chair is a popular, inexpensive gastropub known for its welcoming atmosphere, live music, and diverse food and drink offerings. This vibrant venue combines a beer garden, bar & grill, and entertainment space, making it a favored spot for locals and visitors seeking hearty meals, refreshing drinks, and lively social experiences in Northern Ireland.

1–3 hrsTime to spend
$Budget
IndoorSetting
4 / 5Mobile signal

On-site amenities

  • Restrooms
  • Drink options
  • Food options
  • Seating areas
  • Trash bins
  • Information boards
4.5 Excellent · 447 Google reviews
Plan your visit

Opening hours

  • Mon–Sat10 am–12 am
  • Sun10 pm–12 am

Opening hours as listed on the venue’s Google Business Profile. Hours can change for services and special events, so check with the venue before you go.

Address
15-17 Waterloo St, Londonderry BT48 6HA
Phone
Website

Getting there

Bus

Take local city buses to the Londonderry city center; services run frequently with a typical travel time of 15-30 minutes from surrounding neighborhoods. Bus stops are within walking distance of Waterloo Street. Tickets cost approximately £2-£4 per journey.

Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Londonderry and can bring you directly to 15-17 Waterloo Street in about 10-20 minutes from most central locations. Expect fares around £5-£10 depending on distance and time of day.

Walking

If you are staying in central Londonderry, walking to The Rocking Chair is convenient and scenic, typically taking 10-20 minutes over mostly flat, paved terrain. The route is accessible for most visitors, including those with mobility aids.

Discover more about The Rocking Chair

A Hub of Sociability and Live Entertainment

The Rocking Chair stands as a vibrant social hub in the heart of Londonderry, Northern Ireland. This gastropub and live music bar draws locals and tourists alike with its energetic atmosphere and regular live performances. The venue’s reputation for friendly staff and a welcoming vibe makes it a go-to destination for those looking to enjoy a night out with great company and entertainment.

Diverse Culinary and Drink Offerings

The Rocking Chair offers a menu that caters to varied tastes, featuring pub classics alongside more refined gastropub dishes. Patrons often praise the generous portions and quality of food, from hearty burgers to flavorful pasta dishes. Complementing the food is a well-curated selection of beers and drinks, including options served in the inviting beer garden, perfect for socializing in warmer months.

Historic Location with a Contemporary Feel

Situated on Waterloo Street, the venue occupies a historic part of Londonderry, blending traditional pub charm with modern gastropub aesthetics. The interior balances rustic and contemporary design elements, creating a comfortable yet lively environment. Its location in the city center makes it accessible and a natural meeting point for both casual visitors and locals.

Community and Cultural Significance

Beyond being a place to eat and drink, The Rocking Chair plays an important role in Londonderry’s cultural scene. It supports local musicians and hosts events that contribute to the city’s vibrant nightlife. This connection to community and culture enhances its appeal, positioning it as more than just a pub but a lively venue with a distinct personality.

Seasonal Appeal and Visitor Experience

Open daily from morning until midnight, The Rocking Chair adapts to the rhythms of the city, bustling especially during evenings and weekends. Its beer garden offers a relaxing outdoor space during milder weather, while the indoor areas provide a cozy retreat in colder months. The venue’s accessibility and inclusive atmosphere welcome a wide range of visitors, from solo travelers to groups celebrating special occasions.

Practical Amenities and Accessibility

The Rocking Chair is equipped with amenities such as restrooms, seating areas, and drink options to ensure visitor comfort. Its central location in Londonderry benefits from good mobile reception and ease of access. Whether stopping by for a casual drink or a full meal with live entertainment, guests can expect a well-rounded experience that highlights the best of Northern Irish hospitality.

Evendo Review Centre

Reviews from Google
By star rating

Guest reviews

Best time to go

Quietest: Jan, Feb & Mar · at 2am or at 3am or at 4am

How busy it gets, month by month Estimated
  1. Jan: 60% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  2. Feb: 60% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  3. Mar: 70% of the busiest month, one of the quietest
  4. Apr: 80% of the busiest month
  5. May: 90% of the busiest month
  6. Jun: 100% of the busiest month
  7. Jul: 100% of the busiest month
  8. Aug: 100% of the busiest month
  9. Sep: 90% of the busiest month
  10. Oct: 80% of the busiest month
  11. Nov: 70% of the busiest month
  12. Dec: 70% of the busiest month
How busy it gets, hour by hour Estimated
  1. 12am: 30% of the busiest hour
  2. 1am: 20% of the busiest hour
  3. 2am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  4. 3am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  5. 4am: 10% of the busiest hour, one of the quietest
  6. 5am: 10% of the busiest hour
  7. 6am: 10% of the busiest hour
  8. 7am: 20% of the busiest hour
  9. 8am: 30% of the busiest hour
  10. 9am: 40% of the busiest hour
  11. 10am: 60% of the busiest hour
  12. 11am: 70% of the busiest hour
  13. 12pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  14. 1pm: 60% of the busiest hour
  15. 2pm: 60% of the busiest hour
  16. 3pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  17. 4pm: 80% of the busiest hour
  18. 5pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  19. 6pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  20. 7pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  21. 8pm: 100% of the busiest hour
  22. 9pm: 90% of the busiest hour
  23. 10pm: 70% of the busiest hour
  24. 11pm: 50% of the busiest hour

Busy times are Evendo estimates for a typical year, to help you plan. Actual crowds vary with events, school holidays and the weather.

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