Best Attractions in Londonderry
Planning a trip to Londonderry? Discover the best attractions in Londonderry with history, expert tips, and routes. Free on web or the Evendo app.
The best attractions in Londonderry
- Top rated
- Closest to the centre
- Price level: low to high
- Time to spend: shortest first
- A–Z
44 attractions
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National park4.8★4,695 reviews
Glenveagh National Park
Glenveagh National Park, Ireland’s second-largest national park, sprawls across 170 square kilometers of rugged mountains, pristine lakes, and ancient woodlands in County Donegal. Famous for its Victorian Glenveagh Castle and exquisite gardens, the park offers a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore diverse walking trails, encounter Ireland’s largest red deer herd, and witness the reintroduced golden eagles soaring above the Derryveagh Mountains.
Daily 9:15–17:15Time to spend 2–6 hrs
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Shopping Centre4.4★4,503 reviews
Foyleside Shopping Centre
Foyleside Shopping Centre, located on Orchard Street in Derry, Northern Ireland, is the North West’s leading shopping destination. Spanning over 37,000 square meters, it houses more than 50 stores including major brands like Marks & Spencer, Dunnes Stores, and Frasers. The centre features a vibrant Food Quarter with scenic views over the River Foyle, extensive customer services, and ample parking, making it a bustling hub for fashion, lifestyle, and entertainment.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.7★2,363 reviews
Fanad Head Lighthouse
Fanad Head Lighthouse, perched on the rugged Fanad Peninsula in County Donegal, Ireland, is a striking maritime beacon first lit in 1817. Built after the tragic sinking of HMS Saldanha, it offers panoramic views of the Atlantic and Lough Swilly, a rich history of shipwrecks and lighthouse keepers, and a visitor experience including guided tours, a visitor centre, and self-catering cottages. This iconic lighthouse melds architectural grandeur with dramatic coastal scenery, making it a must-visit on Ireland’s wild northwest coast.
Daily 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2.5 hrs
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Park and Garden4.7★2,357 reviews
National Trust - Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
Perched dramatically on a 120-foot cliff above the Atlantic, Mussenden Temple is one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic sights. This 18th-century circular stone folly, built as a summer library for the flamboyant Earl Bishop of Derry, stands within the windswept Downhill Demesne estate. Visitors explore the romantic ruins of Downhill House, stroll through clifftop gardens and woodland paths, and enjoy breathtaking views across Downhill Strand to Donegal and the Causeway Coast. The site is free to enter, with a small parking fee at Lion’s Gate, and is ideal for photography, coastal walks, and soaking in dramatic maritime scenery.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Shopping Centre4.3★2,241 reviews
Richmond Shopping Centre
Richmond Shopping Centre is the premier retail hub in Londonderry, Northern Ireland, offering over 40 shops including major brands like JD Sports, New Look, and Holland & Barrett. Located within the historic city walls on Ferryquay Street, it features a safe, accessible environment with family-friendly amenities, cafes, and late-night shopping on select days. Open seven days a week, it blends modern retail convenience with a vibrant local atmosphere.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Pub4.7★1,844 reviews
Peadar O'Donnell's
Peadar O'Donnell's is a lively Irish pub located at 63 Waterloo Street, Londonderry, renowned for its vibrant live traditional and contemporary music sessions, friendly atmosphere, and distinctive grocer pub decor. With three bars under one roof, including the Gweedore Bar and Fifty Seven Waterloo St, it offers a dynamic social experience that celebrates local culture and music nightly. This affordable venue is a beloved gathering spot for locals and visitors seeking authentic Irish pub vibes.
Mon–Sat 11:30–1:30 · Sun 12:30–1:30Price level $Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.7★1,829 reviews
Fort Dunree
Nestled on a rocky promontory overlooking Lough Swilly in County Donegal, Fort Dunree is a well-preserved Napoleonic-era coastal fortification turned interactive military museum. It offers visitors a rich blend of history, natural beauty, and wildlife, featuring restored artillery, underground bunkers, scenic walking trails, and a wildlife discovery room. The site also hosts a charming café with spectacular views, making it a compelling destination for history buffs and nature lovers alike.
Mon–Fri 10:30–16:30Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
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Bridge4.7★1,674 reviews
The Peace Bridge
The Peace Bridge is a striking cycle and footbridge spanning the River Foyle in Derry, Northern Ireland. Opened in 2011, this 235-meter-long structure connects the historic city centre with the Waterside area, symbolizing reconciliation between communities. Designed with elegant curves and supported by two sloping pillars, it offers scenic views and access to cultural hubs like Ebrington Square, making it a vital and iconic part of Derry’s urban landscape.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
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Park and Garden4.6★1,727 reviews
St Columb's Park
St Columb's Park is a sprawling 70-acre green space in Londonderry's Waterside area, named after the city's patron saint, St Columba. It features wooded walkways, ruins of a medieval church, an 18th-century manor house, modern sports facilities, and peaceful gardens. The park offers a blend of natural beauty, historical landmarks, and recreational amenities, making it a popular destination for families, walkers, and culture seekers alike.
Mon–Sat 9:00–17:00 · Sun 10:00–17:00Time to spend 1–4 hrs
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Tourist attraction4.7★1,607 reviews
Doagh Famine Village
Doagh Famine Village, located in Lagacurry near Ballyliffin, County Donegal, is a unique outdoor museum that immerses visitors in 19th-century rural Irish life. Through guided tours and life-sized exhibits in traditional thatched cottages, it reveals the struggles and adaptations of communities during the Great Famine and beyond. The village also explores complex cultural histories, including Irish wakes, the Irish Troubles, and local traditions, all set against the stunning backdrop of Donegal’s coastline.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Glenveagh Castle
Glenveagh Castle, nestled within Glenveagh National Park in County Donegal, Ireland, is a striking Victorian-era castle built between 1867 and 1873. Surrounded by extensive gardens and set against the rugged backdrop of the Derryveagh Mountains, the castle offers visitors a blend of rich history, dramatic landscapes, and beautifully maintained grounds. Open year-round, it is a focal point for exploring the park’s natural beauty and cultural heritage.
Daily 9:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 2–4 hrs
Mussenden Temple
Perched dramatically on a 120-foot cliff overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, Mussenden Temple is an iconic 18th-century folly near Castlerock, Northern Ireland. Built in 1785 as a summer library by Frederick Augustus Hervey, the Earl Bishop, its circular design was inspired by Rome’s Temple of Vesta. Though its interior is closed for preservation, the temple’s striking architecture and panoramic coastal views make it one of Ireland’s most photographed landmarks, surrounded by the scenic Downhill Demesne estate.
Daily 10:00–17:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Museum of Free Derry
Located in the heart of Derry’s Bogside, the Museum of Free Derry offers a profound insight into Northern Ireland’s civil rights movement and the turbulent era of the Troubles. Through multimedia exhibits, personal testimonies, and over 25,000 artifacts, it tells the story of Free Derry, the Battle of the Bogside, Bloody Sunday, and the community’s enduring spirit. This museum is a vital cultural landmark for understanding the struggles and hopes of the local people.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Derry Girls Mural
The Derry Girls Mural is a vibrant and iconic street art piece located on Orchard Street in Londonderry, Northern Ireland. Created by local not-for-profit UV Arts, it celebrates the beloved cast of the BAFTA-winning TV comedy series 'Derry Girls,' which humorously depicts teenage life during the 1990s amid The Troubles. The mural is a popular selfie spot and cultural landmark opposite Foyleside shopping centre, capturing the spirit and humor of the show.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.2–1 hr
Quayside Shopping Centre
Quayside Shopping Centre is a vibrant retail hub located on Strand Road in Londonderry, Northern Ireland. Featuring a diverse mix of national and local shops including a large Tesco superstore, cafes, and a 7-screen cinema, it offers a convenient and welcoming shopping experience. With ample parking, extended opening hours, and proximity to cultural landmarks, it serves as a central destination for both locals and visitors seeking shopping, dining, and entertainment under one roof.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Oakfield Park
Nestled in the lush landscape of Raphoe, Co. Donegal, Oakfield Park offers a captivating blend of award-winning gardens, serene lakes, heritage trees, and Ireland’s longest miniature gauge railway. Visitors can explore walled gardens, a hedge maze, and scenic woodland trails while enjoying family-friendly amenities and the popular Buffers Garden Restaurant. Open seasonally from April to September, Oakfield Park is a magical destination for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.
Sat–Sun 12:00–18:00Price level $$Time to spend 3–5 hrs
Brooke Park Derry
Brooke Park is a historic 3.88-acre Victorian park located in central Derry, Northern Ireland. Established in 1901, it offers beautifully landscaped gardens, a children’s playground, a café, and panoramic views over the city. After extensive regeneration, it stands as a cherished green space blending rich heritage with modern amenities, perfect for relaxation and family outings.
Daily 7:30–22:00Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Tower Museum
Located within the historic walls of Londonderry, the Tower Museum offers an immersive journey through the city's rich history and culture. Featuring the acclaimed 'Story of Derry' exhibition and the popular 'Derry Girls Experience,' it provides engaging displays across multiple floors, including panoramic city views from the top level. Family-friendly and accessible, the museum blends heritage with interactive exhibits, making it a must-visit cultural attraction in Northern Ireland.
Daily 9:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Gortmore Viewpoint
Perched on the Bishop's Road along the Binevenagh Loop, Gortmore Viewpoint offers one of Northern Ireland's most spectacular panoramas. On clear days, your gaze sweeps across the North Antrim Coast, stretching from Magilligan Point to Fair Head and Rathlin Island, with views extending to the Scottish islands of Islay and Jura. A sculpture of Manannan Mac Lir, the ancient sea god of Celtic mythology, stands sentinel at this windswept vantage point. Free parking, picnic facilities, and off-road walking trails make this a perfect stop along the Causeway Coastal Route.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–3 hrs
Culdaff Beach
Culdaff Beach, located on the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal, Ireland, is a pristine Blue Flag sandy beach known for its clean waters, two distinctive rocky outcrops, and expansive sand dunes. Popular for swimming, surfing, and walking, it lies just 50 meters from Culdaff village and offers a tranquil coastal environment protected as a Special Area of Conservation.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–4 hrs
Shantallow House
Shantallow House is a popular pub located at 64 Racecourse Road in Londonderry, Northern Ireland. Known for its warm atmosphere, excellent service, and a diverse menu of well-prepared dishes, it offers a comfortable setting for locals and visitors alike. Open daily from noon, it balances traditional charm with modern hospitality, making it a favored spot for casual dining and social gatherings.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Swan Park
Swan Park in Buncrana, County Donegal, is a picturesque riverside park following the Crana River through the town. It features serene walking paths, fairy doors, butterfly gardens, picnic areas, and historic sites including the nearby Buncrana Castle and O'Doherty's Keep. The park offers a tranquil natural escape with scenic views, making it a beloved spot for families, walkers, and nature lovers.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 1–3 hrs
Carrickabraghy Castle
Carrickabraghy Castle is a 16th-century fortress built by the Ó Docharthaigh family on the rocky promontory of the Isle of Doagh, Co. Donegal. Overlooking Trawbreaga Bay, it stands as a significant relic of Gaelic lordship and local history, offering dramatic coastal views and insight into the turbulent past of the Inishowen Peninsula. The castle has undergone recent conservation efforts to preserve its crumbling tower and cultural importance.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Five Finger Strand
Five Fingers Strand is a stunning beach located on the Inishowen Peninsula in County Donegal, Ireland. Known for its expansive sandy shore, towering sand dunes—some of the highest in Europe—and striking rocky coastline, it offers spectacular panoramic views over Trawbrega Bay. The beach is ideal for walking, birdwatching, and photography but swimming is strongly discouraged due to dangerous rip tides and strong currents.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
The Siege Museum
The Siege Museum in Derry~Londonderry chronicles the dramatic 1689 siege when 30,000 local Protestants defended the city against King James II’s forces. Located on Society Street, it houses extensive artefacts, interactive exhibits, and dedicated rooms for Loyal Orders, offering deep insight into this pivotal event and its lasting cultural impact.
Mon–Sat 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Gainsborough Bar
Nestled in the heart of Londonderry at 6 Shipquay Place, Gainsborough Bar is a beloved local pub known for its warm atmosphere, friendly staff, and lively nights filled with great craic. This inexpensive spot offers a welcoming space for both locals and visitors to enjoy well-poured pints, karaoke evenings, and a true taste of Northern Irish pub culture.
Open 24 hoursPrice level $Time to spend 1–3 hrs
National Trust Barmouth Bird Hide
Perched on the west bank of the River Bann near Portstewart Strand, the National Trust Barmouth Bird Hide offers a peaceful, intimate window into Northern Ireland’s coastal wetlands. This simple wooden hide overlooks the estuary, where wading birds, ducks, and seasonal migrants gather in the reeds and mudflats. With easy access from the beach and dunes, it’s a quiet spot for birdwatching, photography, and simply listening to the rhythms of the estuary and sea. The surrounding reserve is part of a protected landscape, rich in wildflowers, butterflies, and coastal views.
Mon–Sat 8:00–20:00 · Sun 9:00–18:00Price level $Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Crescent Bar
Crescent Bar is a cozy and inviting pub located at 126 Beechwood Avenue in Londonderry’s Creggan area. Known for its warm atmosphere, it offers a broad selection of drinks, including local brews and classic cocktails, alongside hearty pub fare. The venue often features live local music, making it a lively social hub for both locals and visitors seeking authentic Northern Irish pub culture.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Peace Flame
The Peace Flame in Londonderry is a powerful symbol of peace, unity, and hope, established to commemorate Northern Ireland's journey toward reconciliation. Located on Foyle Street near the iconic Peace Bridge and Guildhall, the flame was officially lit by Martin Luther King III in 2013 and stands within a glass cabinet, serving as a serene reminder of the city’s troubled past and aspirations for a peaceful future.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.2–1 hr
Amazing Grace Park
Amazing Grace Park in Buncrana, Co. Donegal, is a peaceful public garden opened in 2014 that commemorates John Newton’s transformative refuge by Lough Swilly. Featuring serene water features, floral displays, and picnic areas, it offers visitors a reflective space near the town’s tourist office along Railway Road.
Open 24 hoursTime to spend 0.5–2 hrs
O’Dohertys Keep
O’Doherty’s Keep is a late medieval Norman tower house located on Cahir O'Doherty Avenue in Buncrana, County Donegal. Built in the 14th or early 15th century and expanded in the early 1600s, it served as a strategic stronghold for the Gaelic O’Doherty clan. The keep played a pivotal role in Sir Cahir O’Doherty’s 1608 rebellion against English rule, after which it was burned and later leased to English settlers. Today, it stands as a historic landmark near the River Crana, symbolizing the turbulent history and cultural heritage of Inishowen.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
BISHOP'S GATE - The National Trust
Bishop's Gate is the historic entrance to Downhill Demesne near Castlerock, Northern Ireland, offering access to scenic gardens, rare tree species, and dramatic clifftop walks leading to the iconic Mussenden Temple. This 18th-century estate features sheltered gardens, open grasslands, and panoramic views of the North Atlantic coastline, blending natural beauty with rich history.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Peacemakers Museum
Located in the historic Bogside area of Londonderry, the Peacemakers Museum chronicles the community's journey from violent conflict during the Troubles to peace, focusing on the period from 1972 to 2007. Through artefacts, oral histories, archive footage, and interactive exhibits, it highlights key local figures and events that shaped the peace process, including the Good Friday Agreement. The museum offers a thoughtful, immersive experience that explores resilience, activism, and reconciliation in Northern Ireland.
Mon–Fri 9:30–17:00 · Sat 10:00–16:00Price level $$Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Derry Girls Hangout
Located at 59 Foyle Road in Londonderry, the Derry Girls Hangout is a charming spot that celebrates the iconic Channel 4 sitcom 'Derry Girls.' Fans of the show and visitors alike come to this location to soak in the atmosphere reminiscent of the 1990s Northern Ireland backdrop, reliving the humor and heart of the series. It offers a nostalgic glimpse into the lives of the teenage characters and the city’s rich cultural history during the Troubles.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Brook Hall Estate and Gardens
Brook Hall Estate and Gardens, located on the banks of the River Foyle near Londonderry, Northern Ireland, is a privately owned 18th-century demesne renowned for its rich history, extensive arboretum, and pioneering sustainability efforts. Home to the Gilliland family for six generations, the estate played a key role during the Siege of Derry and has evolved into a premier landscape destination featuring one of Ireland’s finest collections of trees and a commitment to carbon-positive farming.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–3 hrs
Heritage Tower Museum
Located within the historic city walls of Londonderry, the Tower Museum offers a rich exploration of the city’s dramatic history through engaging exhibitions. Highlights include “The Story of Derry,” chronicling the city from prehistory to modern times, and “The Derry Girls Experience,” featuring memorabilia from the popular TV show. The museum’s rooftop provides panoramic views over the city and River Foyle, making it a cultural and scenic highlight in Northern Ireland.
Price level $$Time to spend 1.5–2 hrs
Gasyard Heritage Centre
Located at 128 Lecky Road in Londonderry, the Gasyard Heritage Centre is a vibrant community hub that houses the Peacemakers Museum, showcasing the Bogside community’s journey from conflict during the Troubles to peace. The centre offers diverse cultural, educational, and social initiatives, with exhibitions featuring personal stories, local history, and the peace process, fostering understanding and community regeneration.
Mon–Fri 9:00–15:00Time to spend 1–2 hrs
Ashbrook House
Ashbrook House is an 18th-century historic landmark located on 20 Ardmore Rd, Londonderry, Northern Ireland. Set within 30 acres of mature parkland beside the River Faughan, this elegant two-storey house has been home to the Beresford-Ash family since the late 16th century. Visitors can explore the beautifully preserved architecture, tranquil gardens, and riverside walks that reflect centuries of local heritage and natural beauty.
Time to spend 1–3 hrs
Londonderry Round Tower
The Londonderry Round Tower is a rare surviving medieval monastic structure dating from the 13th or 14th century, located at 10 Cooke Street in Londonderry. This iconic round tower, once part of St Columba’s monastery, stands as the only medieval building still visible in the city, symbolizing the religious and cultural heritage of the area. Its robust stone construction and historic significance make it a key landmark for visitors interested in Northern Ireland’s medieval past.
Mon–Sat open 24 hours · Sun 0:00–23:59Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Castlerock
Castlerock is a tranquil seaside village located five miles west of Coleraine in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland. Known as the Western Gateway to the Causeway Coast, it offers a blend of natural beauty, rich history, and recreational activities. Visitors can enjoy its award-winning Blue Flag beach, championship golf course, historic architecture, and proximity to stunning coastal landscapes within the Benevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Mamore Gap
Mamore Gap is a dramatic mountain pass cutting through the Urris Hills on Donegal’s Inishowen Peninsula. A narrow, winding road climbs steeply to around 240 metres, then plunges down toward the Atlantic, offering sweeping views across Lough Swilly, Dunaff Head and the wild coastline. Once a vital link between villages and a Catholic pilgrimage route, it’s now a Wild Atlantic Way Discovery Point beloved for its raw, rugged scenery and sense of remoteness. There are several small pull-in spots to stop, stretch your legs and take in the panorama.
Time to spend 0.5–2 hrs
Buncrana Lighthouse
Buncrana Lighthouse, established in 1876 on the Inishowen Peninsula at Lough Swilly, County Donegal, is a historic maritime beacon that guided ships for over a century. Originally lit by an oil lamp, it transitioned to acetylene in 1916 and later to electric power in 1951 before being decommissioned. Set on Buncrana pier, this lighthouse stands as a symbol of the town’s rich nautical heritage and offers scenic views of the rugged coastline.
Time to spend 0.5–1.5 hrs
Oakfield Playground
Oakfield Playground is a charming outdoor play area nestled within Oakfield Park, a historic Georgian estate in Raphoe, County Donegal. Surrounded by award-winning gardens, woodlands, and lakes, the playground features wooden equipment, slides, tunnels, a miniature train, and a nature dome, offering a delightful and safe environment for children. It is part of the larger Oakfield Park experience, which includes scenic walks, a hedge maze, and Ireland’s longest miniature railway.
Price level $$Time to spend 1–4 hrs
Ramore Head Lansdowne
Ramore Head Lansdowne is a dramatic coastal headland in Portrush, Northern Ireland, where rugged cliffs meet the Atlantic Ocean. This rocky promontory offers sweeping views along the Causeway Coast, with waves crashing against the shore and seabirds wheeling overhead. It’s a peaceful spot for a coastal walk, a moment of reflection, or simply watching the ever-changing sea. The area is also home to several popular restaurants and bars clustered around the harbour, making it a lively hub for food, drink, and sea views.
Price level $$Time to spend 0.5–3 hrs
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