Derry Round Tower
Medieval bell tower from the 13th-14th century—Derry's only surviving medieval structure and symbol of monastic power.
A remarkable medieval monastic round tower dating to the 13th or 14th century, hidden in plain sight on the grounds of Lumen Christi College in Derry~Londonderry. This is the only surviving medieval structure still standing in the city, representing the bell house (cloigtheach) of St Columba's monastery. Rediscovered through radiocarbon dating of mortar samples, the tower stands as powerful evidence of Derry's significance as a leading monastic centre in medieval Ireland.
A brief summary to Derry Round Towere
- 10 Cooke St, Londonderry, BT48 6UA, GB
- Duration: 0.25 to 1 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- The tower is located on the grounds of Lumen Christi College, a working grammar school. Respect the school's privacy and access restrictions when visiting the exterior.
- Combine your visit with a walk along Derry's 17th-century city walls, which are approximately 1.5 km in circumference and offer panoramic views of the city and surrounding landscape.
- Visit the nearby Tower Museum to deepen your understanding of Derry's medieval history and see exhibits covering the city's development from prehistoric times to the present day.
- The tower is best viewed from the street. Photography from public areas captures the medieval stonework and architectural details that distinguish it from later structures.
- Explore the surrounding Walled City area, which preserves its original Renaissance-style street plan and contains numerous other historical sites including St Columb's Cathedral and historic gates.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Walking from City Centre
From Derry's Diamond (city centre), walk north-west through the Walled City towards Cooke Street. The tower is located at 10 Cooke Street on the grounds of Lumen Christi College. Walking distance is approximately 400 metres, taking 5–8 minutes depending on pace. The route passes through historic streets and offers views of the city walls. Street-level access allows viewing from public areas.
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Public Transport to City Centre
Derry~Londonderry is served by regular bus services from across Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland. Ulsterbus and Bus Éireann operate frequent routes to the city centre. Journey times vary by origin: approximately 1.5 hours from Belfast, 2–3 hours from Dublin, and 45 minutes from Coleraine. Once in the city centre, the tower is a short walk away. Buses arrive at the main bus station near the Diamond.
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Train to Derry Station
Irish Rail operates a daily service from Dublin Connolly Station to Derry~Londonderry, with a journey time of approximately 3.5 hours. The station is located on the east bank of the River Foyle. From Derry Station, cross the Peace Bridge or use the Foyle Bridge to reach the Walled City, then walk to Cooke Street (approximately 1 km, 12–15 minutes).
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Driving and Parking
The tower is accessible by car via the A5 and A6 roads. Derry~Londonderry has several car parks within and near the Walled City, including multi-storey facilities at Foyleside Shopping Centre and street-level parking at various locations. Parking costs typically range from £1.50–£3.00 per hour depending on the facility. The tower itself is on school grounds, but can be viewed from the street.
Derry Round Towere location weather suitability
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Any Weather
Discover more about Derry Round Towere
A Medieval Monument Rediscovered
For centuries, the Derry Round Tower lay hidden in plain sight, mistaken for the ruins of a 17th-century windmill. Located on the grounds of Lumen Christi College grammar school at 10 Cooke Street, this remarkable structure was scientifically dated to the 13th or 14th century through innovative radiocarbon analysis of mortar samples collected during conservation work in 2013. Researchers from Queen's University Belfast and local historians from the Derry Tower Heritage Group confirmed what had long been suspected: this was no windmill, but a genuine medieval monastic bell tower—the only medieval structure still standing within Derry's city boundaries.Symbol of Monastic Power and Prestige
Irish round towers, known as cloigtheach in the Irish language, served primarily as bell towers for monastic communities. However, they represented far more than functional architecture. These distinctive structures were symbols of a monastery's power, wealth, and spiritual importance. The presence of a round tower in Derry indicates the exceptional significance of St Columba's monastery in the north-west of Ireland during the medieval period. Of approximately 90 known round towers in Ireland, the Derry example is unique in its urban setting and its survival through centuries of urban development.From Bell Tower to Windmill
Historical maps from 1600 show the round tower standing in this location. By 1685, however, the structure no longer appeared on maps, replaced instead by references to a windmill on the city's outskirts. Rather than being demolished, the tower's sturdy base was ingeniously repurposed by 17th-century builders who adapted the medieval stump for their new structure. This practical reuse allowed the ancient monument to survive when all other medieval buildings in Derry were demolished or buried beneath centuries of urban construction and development.Archaeological Significance and Urban Context
Dr Colm Donnelly, Director of the Centre for Archaeological Fieldwork at Queen's University Belfast, emphasised the tower's exceptional importance: "This monument is the only medieval structure still standing in Derry. All other medieval buildings that were once here are now gone, buried under the centuries of building activity that have happened in the city over the past 400 years." The tower's survival makes it an irreplaceable window into Derry's medieval past and its role as a major ecclesiastical centre.The Discovery Process
The rediscovery of the tower's true age was made possible through cutting-edge radiocarbon dating techniques developed at the 14CHRONO Centre for Climate, the Environment, and Chronology at Queen's University Belfast. This method measures carbon-14 trapped in mortar when lime originally set, allowing researchers to date the building fabric directly. The Derry Tower Heritage Group's five-year study and their foresight in preserving mortar samples during earlier conservation work proved instrumental in confirming the tower's medieval origins.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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.
War Memorial
0.7 km
A solemn tribute to the fallen, standing at the heart of Derry's historic walled city since 1927.
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.
BRICKWORK BAR
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Brickwork Bar in Londonderry, where local culture and friendly faces create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Magazine Gate Derry City Walls
0.9 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
1.0 km
Discover Londonderry's captivating history with Bogside History Tours, where every street tells a story and every mural speaks volumes.
Cornerstone City Church
1.1 km
A vibrant community in Londonderry offering worship, outreach, and hope through faith and compassionate service.
Haslett Monumental Sculptors
1.4 km
Explore the artistry and heritage of memorial craftsmanship at Haslett Monumental Sculptors in Londonderry, where memories are beautifully carved in stone.
The Clock Tower
1.5 km
Historic Clock Tower at Ebrington Square, a timeless symbol of Londonderry’s military heritage and vibrant city life.
Lapwing Way Gospel Hall
1.8 km
A welcoming evangelical chapel offering spiritual reflection and community fellowship in Londonderry.
Things To Do
3.0 km
Explore the vibrant history and stunning landscapes of Londonderry with unforgettable tours that bring the city's rich culture to life.
Wild Ireland
6.8 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
18.2 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
20.2 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
Peacemakers Museum
0.2 km
Explore the Peacemakers Museum in Londonderry, a powerful tribute to peace and reconciliation efforts in Northern Ireland.
Gasyard Heritage Centre
0.2 km
Discover the rich history of Londonderry at the Gasyard Heritage Centre, where heritage meets community in an engaging museum experience.
St. Columba’s Church Long Tower
0.2 km
Discover centuries of faith and artistry at St. Columba’s Church Long Tower, a historic spiritual landmark in the heart of Londonderry.
The St Columba Heritage Centre.
0.3 km
Discover the rich spiritual heritage of Derry through the life and legacy of St Columba at this immersive heritage centre.
Heritage Tower Museum
0.4 km
Explore Londonderry’s rich history and vibrant culture at the Tower Museum, featuring immersive exhibits and stunning city views.
Derry Girls Hangout
0.4 km
Riverside vantage point where Derry's charm and the Derry Girls legacy converge in peaceful contemplation.
Abercorn Steps
0.5 km
Historic Abercorn Steps in Londonderry connect you to the city’s rich heritage and vibrant cultural heart.
St Columb's Cathedral
0.6 km
Derry’s oldest building and first post-Reformation cathedral, where history, silver, and song echo through centuries within the city walls.
The Derry Walls
0.6 km
Discover the rich history and stunning vistas at The Derry Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Londonderry, Northern Ireland.
Free Derry Corner
0.6 km
Discover Free Derry Corner, a historic landmark in Londonderry embodying the spirit of resilience and civil rights through its iconic murals.
The Yellow Yard
0.6 km
Discover Londonderry’s vibrant vintage market blending unique finds, local art, and a lively atmosphere on Palace Street.
St Augustine's Church of Ireland
0.6 km
Discover the serene neo-Gothic St Augustine's Church, a historic spiritual oasis nestled on Londonderry’s ancient city walls.
Fountain Murals
0.6 km
Loyalist street art narrating unionist identity and perspective on Northern Ireland's complex history
Foyle Valley Railway Museum
0.6 km
Discover the rich railway heritage of Northern Ireland at the Foyle Valley Railway Museum, a vibrant hub of history and interactive exploration in Londonderry.
Apprentice Boy's Memorial Hall
0.6 km
Historic memorial and cultural hub honoring the apprentice boys who defended Londonderry during the 1688 siege.
Essential places to dine
The Gown Restaurant
0.6 km
Experience refined Irish cuisine in a historic setting with seasonally inspired dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients in Derry’s Cathedral Quarter.
Hidden City Cafe
0.6 km
Ethical family café in Londonderry offering creative, plant-based cuisine with local ingredients and a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere.
Social Studio Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience innovative cuisine and crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting at Social Studio Restaurant, Londonderry’s culinary gem.
Cedar Restaurant
0.7 km
Experience authentic Lebanese cuisine in a warm, intimate setting with friendly service at Cedar Restaurant in Londonderry.
La Sosta Restaurant
0.7 km
Elegant modern Italian dining in Londonderry with authentic flavors, warm hospitality, and an extensive wine selection.
The Rocking Chair
0.7 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Rocking Chair in Londonderry - where great food meets live music in a charming pub setting.
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.
Mekong
0.8 km
Experience vibrant Vietnamese fusion cuisine with fresh flavors and friendly service in the heart of Londonderry’s cultural district.
COUPE by The Dirty Souls - Smokehouse/BBQ
0.8 km
Authentic Texas-style BBQ in the heart of Londonderry, serving smoked meats, bold sauces, and craft drinks in a vibrant smokehouse setting.
The Dirty Souls
0.8 km
Savor authentic Southern BBQ and soulful flavors with expertly smoked meats and creative cocktails in the heart of Londonderry.
Jamm
0.8 km
Cozy café offering fresh wraps, vegan delights, and great tea in the historic heart of Londonderry.
Shipquay Restaurant
0.8 km
Refined Irish dining in a historic boutique hotel overlooking Derry’s iconic City Walls and Guildhall.
Castle Street Social
0.8 km
A lively social restaurant in Derry serving innovative local dishes, vegan and gluten-free options, with a vibrant bar and welcoming atmosphere.
Badgers Bar and Restaurant
0.8 km
Lively and welcoming pub-restaurant in the heart of Londonderry, famed for local flavors and the iconic Derry Girls mural.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
The Whatnot
0.6 km
A charming antique shop in Derry~Londonderry, packed with vintage furniture, curiosities, and collectibles from bygone eras.
BELLE & ROSE
0.6 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and artistic charm at Belle & Rose, Londonderry’s boutique for meaningful presents.
SmartSwag
0.6 km
Discover unique handmade treasures and local artistry at SmartSwag, Londonderry’s vibrant craft shop on London Street.
Walled City Gifts & Coffee
0.7 km
Discover unique souvenirs and enjoy delightful coffee at Walled City Gifts & Coffee in Londonderry, a perfect stop for tourists.
Vintage Star
0.7 km
Discover timeless style and authentic vintage fashion at Vintage Star, Londonderry’s beloved retro clothing boutique on Pump Street.
Kular Fashion
0.7 km
Derry’s trusted family-run boutique for premium men’s designerwear, footwear, and accessories since 1977.
Just Feckin Gifts
0.7 km
Discover quirky gifts and local charm at Just Feckin Gifts, Londonderry’s vibrant boutique for unique treasures and souvenirs.
Gimme Goodies
0.7 km
Discover delightful chocolates and gifts at Gimme Goodies, a sweet shop gem in Londonderry’s Richmond Shopping Centre.
Mermaid Cove
0.8 km
Discover handcrafted bath bombs, natural cosmetics, and exclusive home fragrances at Mermaid Cove in historic Derry’s Richmond Centre.
Harmony
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and wellness treasures at Harmony, a charming boutique in the heart of Londonderry’s vibrant shopping district.
Bonmarché
0.8 km
Affordable, stylish ladies' clothing in the heart of Londonderry’s Richmond Centre, blending comfort with fashion for every occasion.
The Donegal Shop
0.8 km
Discover authentic Irish crafts and timeless knitwear in Derry’s family-run Donegal Shop, a heritage hub for Celtic artistry since 1963.
Pippa
0.8 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Pippa, Londonderry's chic boutique, your go-to for stylish clothing and local fashion finds.
Primark
0.8 km
Affordable fashion meets historic charm at Primark in Londonderry’s Former Rialto Theatre on Newmarket Street.
Derry Designer Makers
0.8 km
A vibrant craft collective in Derry’s charming Craft Village, showcasing handmade jewellery, ceramics, textiles, art and more from local North West makers.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Oakgrove Bar
0.3 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality, lively entertainment, and a cozy atmosphere at Oakgrove Bar in the heart of Londonderry.
Celtic Bar
0.4 km
A friendly, affordable bar in the heart of Londonderry offering lively music and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors.
Abercorn Bar & Off Sales
0.4 km
Cozy and affordable local pub in Londonderry with a friendly vibe, live sports, and off-sales convenience.
Masons Bar
0.8 km
Experience authentic local charm and warm hospitality at Masons Bar, a cozy and affordable retreat in the heart of Londonderry.
Lizzie O'Farrell's
0.8 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
0.8 km
Historic Irish pub since 1892, offering live music, hearty food, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of Londonderry’s Waterloo Street.
The Thirsty Goat Derry
0.9 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
0.9 km
Historic charm and lively modern lounge vibes converge at Silver Street Derry, part of the iconic River Inn since 1684.
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.
Porter's Bar
0.9 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively heart of Londonderry at Porter's Bar.
Blackbird
1.0 km
Blackbird is a lively Londonderry pub offering fine brews, a welcoming atmosphere, and a growing kitchen menu from midday to late night.
Dukes Bar
1.0 km
Londonderry’s vibrant bar and nightclub offering exceptional Guinness, creative cocktails, and a lively social scene in a friendly, welcoming atmosphere.
Sandinos
1.0 km
Experience Londonderry’s dynamic live music and vibrant social scene at Sandinos, a beloved bar and café on historic Water Street.
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.
The Derby Bar
1.0 km
A warm, inviting pub in Londonderry offering cozy snugs, excellent Guinness, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere daily until midnight.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
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
1.4 km
Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at izudoo — a lively pub and nightclub with great music, drinks, and unforgettable nights out.
Ibiza Orchestra Live
1.5 km
Experience the electrifying fusion of live orchestral music and iconic Ibiza dance beats in Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife hotspot.
Carrolls
19.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Carrolls in Buncrana, Co. Donegal, where exceptional drinks and music create unforgettable memories.
XOX Strabane
20.1 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
22.9 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
25.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at PULSE VENUE, Letterkenny's premier night club offering live music and unforgettable dance parties.
Fifth Avenue Letterkenny
26.1 km
Dive into the heart of Letterkenny's nightlife at Fifth Avenue, where vibrant music and lively dance floors create unforgettable moments.
Voodoo Venue
26.5 km
Experience the electric nightlife of Letterkenny at Voodoo Venue, where cocktails, live music, and vibrant energy await every visitor.
Halyon Club
28.7 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
29.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Co. Donegal at Tul Na Ri, where great music, dancing, and a friendly atmosphere await.
Empire Club
39.3 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
43.5 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Vault Nightclub in Omagh, where music, dancing, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Tiger Lillys
43.6 km
Omagh’s vibrant jungle-themed nightclub offering fresh cocktails and lively nights exclusively for the 18+ crowd.
The Legends Lounge
48.6 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
- Historic
- Unique
- Scenic
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Vintage Styles
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Sacred Sites
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
For the social media creator & influencer
- Architectural Shots
- Photo Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Protected Area
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Myth & Legends
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
