Craigavon Bridge: Derry’s Historic Double-Decker Crossing
Explore Derry’s iconic double-decker Craigavon Bridge, a historic engineering marvel spanning the River Foyle with panoramic city views.
Craigavon Bridge in Derry, Northern Ireland, is a rare double-decker road bridge completed in 1933. Spanning the River Foyle, it replaced the earlier Carlisle Bridge and features a unique history tied to the city's railway heritage. The lower deck, once a freight railway line, was converted to road traffic in 1968. The bridge offers striking views of the city and is an iconic part of Derry’s urban landscape.
A brief summary to Craigavon Bridge
- 20 Bridge St, Londonderry, BT48 6JZ, GB
- Duration: 0.5 to 2 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during daylight for the best views of Derry’s walled city and the River Foyle from the bridge’s upper deck.
- Look for the silhouetted railway station murals at each end, which pay homage to the bridge’s former railway use.
- Combine your visit with a walk to the nearby Hands Across the Divide sculpture for a cultural and historical experience.
- The bridge is accessible year-round and is free to cross on foot or by vehicle.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
- Trash Bins
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect central Derry to the area near Craigavon Bridge, with journeys typically taking 10 to 20 minutes from main city hubs. Buses run frequently throughout the day, with fares around £2-£4. Note that services may be less frequent on Sundays.
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Taxi
Taxis from Derry city center to Craigavon Bridge take approximately 5 to 10 minutes depending on traffic. Expect fares in the range of £5 to £10. Taxis provide a convenient option for quick access and are widely available.
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Walking
For those staying in central Derry, walking to Craigavon Bridge is an enjoyable option, taking about 15 to 25 minutes over mostly flat terrain. The route is accessible and offers scenic views along the River Foyle.
Craigavon Bridge location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Craigavon Bridge
A Unique Engineering Landmark in Derry
Craigavon Bridge stands as one of the few double-decker road bridges in Europe, spanning the River Foyle in Derry, Northern Ireland. Completed in 1933, it replaced the earlier Carlisle Bridge and was designed by the City Architect Matthew A. Robinson. The bridge’s two-tier structure originally served dual purposes: the upper deck carried road traffic while the lower deck was dedicated to a railway line for freight wagons. This design reflects the city’s rich industrial and transport heritage.From Rail to Road: Evolution of the Lower Deck
The lower deck’s railway function was integral to Derry’s freight movement, connecting quays and warehouses on both sides of the river. However, in 1968, the railway line was replaced by a road to accommodate growing vehicular traffic demands. To commemorate this history, silhouetted murals of railway stations adorn each end of the bridge, serving as a visual reminder of its past. The bridge thus embodies a transition from industrial transport to modern urban connectivity.Historical Context and City Significance
Craigavon Bridge is the latest in a series of crossings over the River Foyle, following a wooden bridge built between 1789 and 1791 and the steel Carlisle Bridge erected in 1863. Named after Lord Craigavon, the first Prime Minister of Northern Ireland, the bridge has witnessed significant moments in Derry’s history, including social protests such as the 1968 sit-down demonstration by the Derry Housing Action Committee on its upper deck. It remains a vital artery linking the cityside and Waterside.Architectural and Visual Appeal
Constructed with metal girders and riveted steelwork typical of early 20th-century engineering, the bridge combines functional design with aesthetic appeal. Its double-decker form offers pedestrians and drivers panoramic views of Derry’s walled city and the River Foyle. The nearby "Hands Across the Divide" bronze sculpture further enriches the area’s cultural landscape, symbolizing reconciliation and peace.Visitor Experience and Atmosphere
Walking across Craigavon Bridge provides a unique perspective on Derry’s urban fabric, blending historical significance with scenic vistas. The bridge’s location allows visitors to appreciate both the architectural heritage and the natural beauty of the river environment. It is a favored spot for photowalks and cultural exploration, offering a tranquil yet lively atmosphere reflective of the city’s spirit.Preservation and Contemporary Role
The bridge is a protected historic structure, recognized for its architectural and engineering importance. It continues to serve as a crucial transport link in Derry, accommodating road traffic on both decks. Regular maintenance ensures its safety and longevity, preserving its legacy as a symbol of the city’s industrial past and ongoing vitality.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Cornerstone City Church
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A vibrant community in Londonderry offering worship, outreach, and hope through faith and compassionate service.
City Walking Tours
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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
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War Memorial
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A solemn tribute to the fallen, standing at the heart of Derry's historic walled city since 1927.
Double Bastion
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BRICKWORK BAR
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Bogside History Tours
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Magazine Gate Derry City Walls
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Haslett Monumental Sculptors
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The Clock Tower
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Lapwing Way Gospel Hall
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Things To Do
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Wild Ireland
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Amazing Grace Viewing Point
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Oakfield Park
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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
Foyle Valley Railway Museum
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Discover the rich railway heritage of Northern Ireland at the Foyle Valley Railway Museum, a vibrant hub of history and interactive exploration in Londonderry.
Derry Bike Tours
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Guided bike tours revealing Derry's historic walls, vibrant neighborhoods, and scenic landscapes through local expertise.
Fountain Murals
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Loyalist street art narrating unionist identity and perspective on Northern Ireland's complex history
Abercorn Steps
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Historic Abercorn Steps in Londonderry connect you to the city’s rich heritage and vibrant cultural heart.
St Columb's Church
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A welcoming Catholic parish church serving Londonderry's Waterside community with deep spiritual roots.
Derry Girls Hangout
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Foyleside Shopping Centre
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Derry’s premier shopping destination with over 50 stores, family amenities, and stunning riverside dining in the heart of the walled city.
St Columb's Cathedral
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Derry’s oldest building and first post-Reformation cathedral, where history, silver, and song echo through centuries within the city walls.
The Gate Bistro & Cocktail Bar
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A lively bistro and cocktail bar in Londonderry offering hearty dishes, creative drinks, and live music in a welcoming atmosphere.
Derry Girls Mural
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Celebrate the spirit of Derry with the vibrant, award-winning Derry Girls Mural—an iconic tribute to laughter, history, and local pride.
Heritage Tower Museum
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Explore Londonderry’s rich history and vibrant culture at the Tower Museum, featuring immersive exhibits and stunning city views.
St Columb's Hall
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Historic Londonderry concert hall blending rich cultural heritage with vibrant contemporary arts in a stunning Baroque-inspired setting.
Belong Londonderry / Derry
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Next-generation gaming arena where competitive play meets community connection in Derry's premier shopping destination.
Le Petit Village
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A charming, imaginative children’s play café in Londonderry’s city centre, perfect for infants and toddlers to explore and create.
Richmond Shopping Centre
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Derry’s main indoor shopping hub, with big brands, cafés, and family events in the heart of the city.
Essential places to dine
La Sosta Restaurant
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The Pig N Frog Bistro
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Cedar Restaurant
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The Ritz Bar & Bistro
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Fitzroy's
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Browns Bonds Hill
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Experience culinary artistry at Browns Bonds Hill, where fine dining meets local flavors in Londonderry's stunning landscape.
The Bentley Bar
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Savor delicious grilled dishes at The Bentley Bar - where flavor meets atmosphere in Londonderry.
The Sooty Olive
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A stylish, locally inspired restaurant in Londonderry offering fresh, creative dishes in a relaxed, modern setting.
Badgers Bar and Restaurant
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Lively and welcoming pub-restaurant in the heart of Londonderry, famed for local flavors and the iconic Derry Girls mural.
Hidden City Cafe
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The Gown Restaurant
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Social Studio Restaurant
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Jamm
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Shipquay Restaurant
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COUPE by The Dirty Souls - Smokehouse/BBQ
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Occasions
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Dunnes Stores
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River Island
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Angry Cherry
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Londonderry's premier pop culture destination for comics, gaming, anime, and entertainment collectibles since 2013.
Walled City Gifts & Coffee
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Discover unique souvenirs and enjoy delightful coffee at Walled City Gifts & Coffee in Londonderry, a perfect stop for tourists.
Just Feckin Gifts
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Discover quirky gifts and local charm at Just Feckin Gifts, Londonderry’s vibrant boutique for unique treasures and souvenirs.
Monsoon & Accessorize
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Discover stylish ladies' fashion and unique accessories at Monsoon & Accessorize, nestled in Londonderry’s vibrant Foyleside Shopping Centre.
Edinburgh Woollen Mill
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Classic British knitwear and woollens with a rich heritage, offering timeless style and quality in Londonderry’s Orchard Street.
Next
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Next at Foyleside offers stylish fashion and homeware in Londonderry’s premier shopping centre with excellent amenities and a lively atmosphere.
Elkstone
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Kular Fashion
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Derry’s trusted family-run boutique for premium men’s designerwear, footwear, and accessories since 1977.
Nearby
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Vintage Star
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SmartSwag
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Primark
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Dukes Bar
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Abercorn Bar & Off Sales
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Oakgrove Bar
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Harry's Bar
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Sandinos
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Blackbird
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The Glen Bar
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Porter's Bar
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The Thirsty Goat Derry
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Masons Bar
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Silver Street Derry
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Lizzie O'Farrell's
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Dungloe Bar
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Celtic Bar
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Tranquil
- Historic
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
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
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
