Londonderry, United Kingdom Travel Guide

Discover Londonderry: A historic walled city with a rich cultural heritage, vibrant arts scene, and stunning natural landscapes in Northern Ireland.

Londonderry, also known as Derry, is a city steeped in history, culture, and natural beauty. Nestled on the banks of the River Foyle, this city is renowned for its 17th-century walls, which are among the best-preserved in Europe. Walking along these ancient walls, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the city and its surroundings. The walls encircle a compact and lively city center, where you can explore a mix of old and new architecture, from the Gothic-style St. Columb's Cathedral to the modern Peace Bridge. Londonderry is also known for its vibrant arts scene. The city is home to the annual Derry Halloween festival, one of the biggest and best in Europe, transforming the city into a spectacle of light and color. For those interested in history and culture, the Museum of Free Derry and the Tower Museum offer deep insights into the city's past, including the events of the Troubles and the city's broader history. The people of Londonderry are known for their warmth and hospitality. You’ll find plenty of cozy pubs and trendy cafes where you can enjoy the local cuisine and perhaps even catch a traditional music session. The city's location also makes it a great base for exploring the stunning landscapes of Northern Ireland, including the nearby Sperrin Mountains and the scenic Causeway Coast.

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Londonderry.

Walk the city walls for the best views and a sense of history.
Visit during the Derry Halloween festival for an unforgettable experience.
Explore both the Museum of Free Derry and the Tower Museum for a complete historical perspective.
Try the local cuisine in one of the city's many pubs and cafes.
Consider staying in Londonderry as a base for exploring the nearby Sperrin Mountains and Causeway Coast.

Top City Travel Guides in Londonderry

The cities of Londonderry, and the easiest places to base yourself.

Derry

Explore Londonderry: Things to Do, Places to Eat, Hotels & More

Handpicked recommendations for top attractions, local dining, accommodations, and more

Top Attractions & Sightseeing in Londonderry

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Fanad Head Lighthouse

Historic Fanad Head Lighthouse stands proudly on Donegal’s wild coast, offering panoramic Atlantic views, rich maritime history, and immersive tours.

4.7

Glenveagh National Park

Explore rugged mountains, a Victorian castle, and enchanting gardens in Ireland’s wild Glenveagh National Park.

4.8

National Trust - Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne

A dramatic 18th-century clifftop temple and windswept estate on Northern Ireland’s wild Atlantic coast, offering iconic views and romantic ruins.

4.7

Glenveagh Castle

Explore the romantic Glenveagh Castle and its exquisite gardens nestled in the wild beauty of County Donegal’s Glenveagh National Park.

4.7

Best landmarks in Londonderry

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Free Derry Corner

Historic Free Derry Corner stands as a powerful symbol of civil rights, resistance, and community spirit in the heart of Londonderry.

4.7

Amazing Grace Viewing Point

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.

4.7

Bloody Sunday Monument

A solemn granite obelisk in Derry commemorating the 14 unarmed civilians killed on Bloody Sunday, symbolizing resilience and the fight for justice.

4.6

The Derry Walls

Explore the only fully intact 17th-century city walls in Ireland, a living monument to Derry’s rich history and resilience.

4.7

Best restaurants in Londonderry

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Amici Ristorante

Experience authentic Neapolitan Italian cuisine with coastal views and charcoal-grilled specialties in the heart of Portstewart.

4.6

Artis Restaurant By Phelim O' Hagan

Innovative fine dining by acclaimed chef Phelim O'Hagan in Londonderry’s historic Craft Village, blending local flavors with artistic flair.

4.9

Browns Bonds Hill

Sophisticated fine dining in Londonderry with contemporary cuisine, impeccable service, and a stylish art deco ambiance.

4.7

Browns In Town

Modern Irish cuisine with a creative twist, served in a lively and welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Derry.

4.4

Best bars in Londonderry

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Blackbird

A lively and welcoming pub in Londonderry offering freshly prepared dishes, local beers, and a cozy atmosphere for all occasions.

4.5

Peadar O'Donnell's

Experience authentic Irish hospitality, lively music, and rich history at Peadar O'Donnell's, Londonderry’s beloved traditional pub.

4.7

River Inn

Derry’s oldest bar since 1684, blending rich history, lively music, and warm hospitality in the heart of the city.

4.4

Sandinos

A vibrant left-wing cafe bar in Londonderry, Sandinos offers eclectic music, revolutionary art, and a welcoming community spirit.

4.6

Best nightclubs in Londonderry

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Blackbird

Lively pub on Foyle Street serving fresh local dishes, live music, and excellent drinks in a warm, friendly atmosphere.

4.5

The Anchor Bar Complex

Historic Irish pub, lively nightclub, and cozy inn on Portstewart Promenade offering great food, live music, and warm hospitality since 1898.

4.5

izudoo Derry Pub & Night Club Guide

Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at izudoo — a lively pub and nightclub with great music, drinks, and unforgettable nights out.

Best shops in Londonderry

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Lisnagelvin Shopping Centre

A bustling shopping hub in Londonderry’s Waterside, offering diverse stores, extended hours, and family-friendly amenities.

4.1

Little Acorns Bookstore

Discover Derry’s largest independent bookstore, a vibrant cultural hub with 25,000+ books, Ireland’s only Typewriter Museum, and a welcoming community space.

4.9

The Yellow Yard

Discover Londonderry’s vibrant hub for vintage clothes, vinyl records, and quirky collectibles in a welcoming, alternative shopping space.

4.7

The Donegal Shop

Discover authentic Irish crafts and timeless knitwear at The Donegal Shop, a family-run treasure in the heart of Derry since 1963.

4.5

Explore Londonderry on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots in Londonderry, mapped for you.

Londonderry Essentials

Londonderry, also known as Derry, is easily accessible by various modes of transportation. The nearest airport is City of Derry Airport (LDY), located about 11 kilometers from the city center, offering flights to and from several UK destinations. Alternatively, Belfast International Airport (BFS) and George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) are approximately 100 kilometers away, offering a wider range of international flights. From Belfast, you can reach Londonderry by train, bus, or car. The train journey from Belfast takes about two hours and offers scenic views of Northern Ireland's countryside. Regular bus services also connect Londonderry with Belfast and other major cities in Northern Ireland.
Within Londonderry, there are several transportation options to help you get around. The city center is compact and walkable, making it easy to explore on foot. For longer journeys, local buses operated by Translink offer extensive coverage of the city and surrounding areas. Taxis are also readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked in advance. For a more flexible option, car rentals are available from various providers. Additionally, cycling is a popular way to explore the city, with several bike rental shops and designated cycling paths.
The official currency in Londonderry is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout the city for cash withdrawals. It's advisable to carry some cash for small purchases, especially in local markets and smaller establishments. Contactless payment methods are also commonly used and accepted.
Londonderry is generally a safe city for tourists, but it is always wise to take standard precautions. Avoid walking alone at night in unfamiliar areas and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places. The Bogside area has a historical significance and is safe to visit, but it is recommended to stay aware of your surroundings, especially during late hours. Petty crime, such as pickpocketing, can occur, so be vigilant, especially in busy areas and tourist hotspots.
In case of an emergency, dial 999 for immediate assistance from police, fire, or medical services. The Altnagelvin Area Hospital is the main medical facility in Londonderry, providing emergency services. Pharmacies are available throughout the city for minor health concerns and over-the-counter medications. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. Local police stations can assist with non-emergency situations and lost property.
Fashion: Do dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather. Smart casual is generally acceptable for most occasions. Avoid overly revealing clothing, especially when visiting religious sites. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When visiting churches and other religious sites, dress modestly and behave respectfully. Public Transport: Do use exact change or contactless payment methods for bus fares. Don't play loud music or eat on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a friendly 'hello' or 'hi.' Handshakes are common in formal settings. Eating & Drinking: Do try local delicacies and enjoy the vibrant food scene. Don't refuse an offer of hospitality, as it may be considered impolite.
To experience Londonderry like a local, take a stroll along the historic city walls, which offer stunning views and a glimpse into the city's past. Visit the Craft Village for unique souvenirs and local crafts. Engage with locals at pubs and cafes, where you can enjoy traditional Irish music sessions. Don't miss the annual Halloween festival, one of the largest in Europe, featuring parades, fireworks, and cultural events. For a peaceful retreat, explore the beautiful surroundings of the River Foyle and nearby parks.

When is the best time to visit Londonderry?

With Eve

Useful Local Phrases for Londonderry

You don't need to speak the language perfectly. Even learning a few simple words can make conversations warmer—and locals usually appreciate the effort.

— Eve

6 phrase groups English + pronunciation

Here are the phrases I use most often in Londonderry. Try a few—you'll be surprised how far they go! 😊
❤️

- HelloHiya
  [hɪjə]
- GoodbyeSee ya
  [si jə]
- YesAye
  [aɪ]
- NoNaw
  [nɔ]
- Please/You're welcomePlease/No bother
  [pliz/nəʊ ˈbɒtə]
- Thank youCheers
  [tʃɪəz]
- Excuse me/SorrySorry
  [ˈsɒri]
- How are you?How's it going?
  [haʊz ɪt ˈɡəʊɪŋ]
- Fine. And you?Grand. And you?
  [ɡrænd ənd jə]
- Do you speak English?Do ya speak English?
  [du jə spiːk ˈɪŋɡlɪʃ]
- I don't understandI dinnae get it
  [aɪ ˈdɪnə ˈɡɛt ɪt]
- I'd like to see the menu, pleaseCan I see the menu, please?
  [kæn aɪ si ðə ˈmɛnjuː pliz]
- I don't eat meatI don't eat meat
  [aɪ dəʊnt iːt miːt]
- Cheers!Cheers!
  [tʃɪəz]
- I would like to pay, pleaseCan I pay, please?
  [kæn aɪ peɪ pliz]
- Help!Help!
  [hɛlp]
- Go away!Clear off!
  [klɪə ɔf]
- Call the Police!Ring the cops!
  [rɪŋ ðə kɒps]
- Call a doctor!Get a doctor!
  [ɡɛt ə ˈdɒktə]
- I'm lostI’m lost
  [aɪm lɒst]
- I'm illI’m feeling poorly
  [aɪm ˈfiːlɪŋ ˈpʊəli]
- I'd like to buy...I’d like to buy...
  [aɪd laɪk tə baɪ...]
- I'm just lookingI’m just browsing
  [aɪm dʒʌst ˈbraʊzɪŋ]
- How much is it?How much is it?
  [haʊ mʌtʃ ɪz ɪt]
- That's too expensiveThat’s too dear
  [ðæts tuː dɪə]
- Can you lower the price?Can ye lower the price?
  [kæn jə ˈləʊə ðə praɪs]
- What time is it?What time is it?
  [wɒt taɪm ɪz ɪt]
- It's one o'clockIt’s one o’clock
  [ɪts wʌn əˈklɒk]
- Half past (10)Half ten
  [hɑːf tɛn]
- MorningMorning
  [ˈmɔːnɪŋ]
- AfternoonAfternoon
  [ˌɑːftəˈnuːn]
- EveningEvening
  [ˈiːvnɪŋ]
- YesterdayYesterday
  [ˈjɛstədeɪ]
- TodayToday
  [təˈdeɪ]
- TomorrowTomorrow
  [təˈmɒrəʊ]
- 1One
  [wʌn]
- 2Two
  [tuː]
- 3Three
  [θriː]
- 4Four
  [fɔː]
- 5Five
  [faɪv]
- 6Six
  [sɪks]
- 7Seven
  [ˈsɛvən]
- 8Eight
  [eɪt]
- 9Nine
  [naɪn]
- 10Ten
  [tɛn]
- Where's a/the...?Where’s the...?
  [wɛəz ðə]
- What's the address?What’s the address?
  [wɒts ði əˈdrɛs]
- Can you show me (on the map)?Can ye show me (on the map)?
  [kæn jə ʃoʊ mi (ɒn ðə mæp)]
- When's the next (bus)?When's the next (bus)?
  [wɛn z ðə nɛkst (bʌs)]
- A ticket (to ....)A ticket (to ....)
  [ə ˈtɪkɪt (tə ....)]

History of Londonderry

Londonderry, also known as Derry, boasts a rich history that dates back to the 6th century when it was first established by Saint Columba as a Christian monastery. The city’s name has been a point of contention; 'Derry' is derived from the Irish word 'Doire' meaning 'oak grove,' while 'Londonderry' was adopted after the city was granted a royal charter by King James I in 1613, reflecting the involvement of the London guilds in its settlement.
One of the most defining historical events in Londonderry’s history is the Siege of Derry. In 1688, during the Williamite War in Ireland, the city’s Protestant inhabitants closed the gates against the forces of the Catholic King James II. The siege lasted 105 days, during which the defenders famously declared 'No Surrender!' The event is commemorated annually by the Protestant community.
Constructed between 1613 and 1618, the Walls of Derry are among the best-preserved city fortifications in Europe. These defensive walls, which are about 1.5 km in circumference and up to 8 meters thick, were built to protect the English and Scottish settlers brought to Ireland during the Plantation of Ulster. Visitors can walk along the walls and enjoy panoramic views of the city and the River Foyle.
The Battle of the Bogside was a large-scale, three-day riot that took place in August 1969 in the Bogside neighborhood, a Catholic enclave in Londonderry. This event marked a significant escalation in the Northern Ireland conflict, known as 'The Troubles.' The clashes between the residents of Bogside and the Royal Ulster Constabulary (RUC) led to widespread violence and the eventual deployment of British troops to Northern Ireland.
On January 30, 1972, a civil rights protest in Londonderry ended in tragedy when British soldiers shot 26 unarmed civilians, killing 14. This event, known as Bloody Sunday, significantly intensified the conflict in Northern Ireland and remains a deeply emotive and controversial episode. The Bloody Sunday Memorial and the Museum of Free Derry offer poignant insights into this dark chapter of the city's history.
Opened in 2011, the Peace Bridge symbolizes the progress towards reconciliation in Londonderry. Spanning the River Foyle, the bridge connects the predominantly Catholic Bogside with the predominantly Protestant Waterside, fostering a spirit of unity in a city long divided by sectarian tensions. The Peace Bridge is a testament to the ongoing efforts to build a more inclusive and harmonious community.
Londonderry was named the inaugural UK City of Culture in 2013, a title that recognized the city's vibrant cultural scene and its contributions to the arts. Throughout the year, Londonderry hosted a wide array of events, including the Turner Prize exhibition, the All-Ireland Fleadh music festival, and the Lumiere light festival. This accolade has helped to bolster the city's reputation as a hub for creativity and cultural expression.