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Derry

Derry, Derry and Strabane, United Kingdom

Discover Derry: Where History Meets Vibrant Culture Nestled on the banks of the River Foyle in Northern Ireland, Derry (officially Londonderry) is a city where history whispers from ancient walls and modern spirit bursts…

#historic city#walled city#Catholic-Protestant divide#cultural hub#River Foyle

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into Derry.

Top Hotels in Derry

Top Flights to Derry

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in Derry.

Tours

Explore Derry's Historic Walls

Walk along the iconic Derry City Walls, offering a unique panoramic view of the city and its surroundings.

Foyle Valley Railway Museum Visit

Step into the past with a visit to the Foyle Valley Railway Museum, showcasing the history of railways in Northern Ireland.

Bogside Murals Tour

Explore the famous Bogside Murals, powerful political statements set in art.

St. Columb's Cathedral Tour

Discover the history and architecture of St. Columb's Cathedral, the oldest building in the city.

Grianan of Aileach Visit

Take a short trip to the ancient ringfort, Grianan of Aileach, overlooking Derry and the surrounding area.

Visit the Tower Museum

Explore Derry's rich history from the earliest settlements to the present day at the Tower Museum.

Shopping

Derry Craft Village Shopping

Discover unique local crafts and artisanal products in the charming Derry Craft Village.

Buttermarket Enclave Shopping

Shop for unique crafts and enjoy local cuisines in the charming Buttermarket Enclave.

Outdoor

Guided Peace Bridge Walk

Join a guided tour of the Peace Bridge, an iconic pedestrian bridge symbolizing the city's unity.

Kayak on the River Foyle

Experience the thrill of kayaking on the River Foyle, surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in Derry.

Currency

£ | GBP | Pound Sterling

Population

Not Available

Languages

English, Irish

Average weather

Derry

Jan

7°2°

Feb

8°2°

Mar

10°3°

Apr

12°4°

May

15°7°

Jun

17°10°

Jul

19°12°

Aug

19°12°

Sep

17°10°

Oct

13°7°

Nov

10°4°

Dec

8°2°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on Derry.

What people love

Derry, also known as Londonderry, is a city located in Northern Ireland within the Derry and Strabane district. Traveling to Derry can offer a variety of unique and memorable experiences. Here are some pros of visiting Derry:

Rich History: Derry has a fascinating history dating back to the 6th century, with historical sites such as the ancient city walls, the Guildhall, and the Tower Museum providing insights into the city's past.
Stunning Scenery: Derry is situated along the River Foyle and surrounded by beautiful landscapes. Visitors can enjoy scenic walks along the riverbanks and explore the nearby countryside, including the Sperrin Mountains and the Causeway Coast.
Cultural Heritage: Derry is known for its vibrant arts and culture scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues showcasing local talent. The city also hosts events such as the Derry Jazz Festival and the Foyle Film Festival.
Friendly Locals: The people of Derry are known for their warmth and hospitality, making visitors feel welcome and at home in the city.
Culinary Delights: Derry offers a variety of dining options, ranging from traditional Irish pubs serving hearty fare to fine dining restaurants offering gourmet cuisine. Seafood is a specialty in the region, with fresh catches from the nearby Atlantic Ocean.
Easy Access to Attractions: Derry's compact size makes it easy to navigate on foot, allowing visitors to explore attractions such as the Peace Bridge, St. Columb's Cathedral, and the Tower Museum conveniently.

Overall, traveling to Derry can provide a mix of historical, cultural, and natural attractions, making it a rewarding destination for visitors seeking a unique experience in Northern Ireland.

Enjoy your trip to Derry!

What to know

Some potential cons of traveling to Derry, located in Derry, Derry and Strabane, United Kingdom, may include:

Weather: Derry, like much of the United Kingdom, can experience frequent rain and cool temperatures, which may not be ideal for travelers seeking sunny and warm weather.
Political tensions: Derry has a complex history of political tensions and conflicts, particularly related to the Troubles in Northern Ireland. While the situation has improved significantly in recent years, travelers should be aware of the sensitive political climate in the region.
Limited public transportation options: Derry is not as well-connected by public transportation compared to other major cities in the UK. Travelers may find it challenging to navigate the city without a car.
Limited nightlife options: While Derry has a vibrant cultural scene, the city's nightlife offerings may be more limited compared to larger cities like Belfast or Dublin.

These are just a few potential cons to consider when planning a trip to Derry. It's always a good idea to research further and consider your own preferences and priorities before traveling to any destination.

Derry, also known as Londonderry, is a city with a rich and complex history. It is located in Derry and Strabane district, Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. Here is a detailed history of Derry, including significant events, historical figures, and important landmarks:

Early History

6th Century: The city was originally founded as a monastic settlement. It is traditionally believed to have been established by Saint Columba (Colmcille), an important figure in Irish Christianity, around 546 AD.

Medieval Period

12th Century: The area came under the influence of the O'Neill clan.
1608: Derry was granted a royal charter by King James I, marking the beginning of its development as a significant settlement.

Plantation of Ulster

1613: The city was renamed Londonderry as part of the Plantation of Ulster, an organized colonization of Ulster by people from Great Britain. The London guilds were involved in its development, and they constructed the famous city walls.

The Siege of Derry

1688-1689: One of the most significant events in Derry's history was the Siege of Derry. The city was besieged for 105 days by the forces loyal to James II. The Protestant inhabitants, supporters of William of Orange, famously shut the gates against the Jacobite army. The siege ended on July 28, 1689, with the relief of the city by ships of William's fleet.

19th Century

Derry developed as a significant port and industrial city during the 19th century, facilitated by the growth of the linen industry and shipbuilding.

20th Century

1921: Following the partition of Ireland, Derry became a border city within Northern Ireland.
1960s-1990s: The city was a focal point during the Troubles, a period of conflict in Northern Ireland. The Battle of the Bogside in 1969 and Bloody Sunday in 1972, when British soldiers shot 28 unarmed civilians during a peaceful protest march, are two of the most notable incidents from this period.

Recent History

1998: The Good Friday Agreement brought a degree of peace to the area, allowing for significant economic and social regeneration.
2013: Derry was designated as the inaugural UK City of Culture, highlighting its contribution to arts and culture.

Important Landmarks

The City Walls: Built between 1613 and 1618, they are one of the best-preserved city fortifications in Europe and offer a unique promenade to visitors.
St. Columb's Cathedral: The first Anglican cathedral built after the Reformation, completed in 1633.
The Guildhall: An iconic building, which houses a collection of stained glass windows and hosts various events.
Peace Bridge: A symbol of peace and reconciliation, the bridge connects the two sides of the River Foyle.

Derry continues to be a city of cultural significance, with a vibrant arts scene and ongoing contributions to peace and reconciliation efforts in Northern Ireland.