Derry-Londonderry
Whether you start or finish your Giant Adventure along the Causeway Coastal Route in Derry-Londonderry, this beautiful city is an eye-opening experience. There are few places so steeped in history and so rich in culture, it is one of the world’s best preserved walled-cities. This town we love so well is home to luxurious hotels and boasts some of the best food and drink experiences. Not to mention the world's biggest Hallowe'en carnival.
Things to do in Derry-Londonderry
The city's historic 400 year old walls are the star of the show, and no visit to Derry-Londonderry would be complete without a walk around them. Either go it alone on a walk revealing a city crammed full of history, heritage and a vibrant cultural scene, or join a guided tour. Along the way, you’ll come across the Guildhall. An integral part of Derry-Londonderry's history since 1887, this beautifully ornate building has played host to presidents, playwrights and poets over the years. Or walk in the footsteps of a literary giant at the Seamus Heaney Homeplace, located in Bellaghy, just 45 minutes from Derry-Londonderry. This fully immersive experience is filled with personal stories, images and the voice of the poet himself. (Winner of Most Innovative Business (Large) at the Giant Spirit Awards 2022).
Places to Stay in Derry-Londonderry
After packing in all of that, you’ll need somewhere to rest your head. The Bishop’s Gate Hotel (4*) is your perfect choice within the city walls. The guest rooms and suites are contemporary yet serene with great views across the cityscape. One of the city's newest and coolest boutique hotels, the Shipquay Hotel (4*), overlooks the city walls and the Guildhall. With just twenty-one bedrooms, this boutique hotel is an intimate and luxurious place to spend your down time in Derry-Londonderry. Or relax in the award-winning Roe Park Resort (3*) outside Limavady, one of Northern Ireland's leading spa and golf resorts, nestled amidst the gorgeous surroundings of the Roe Valley Country Park. There is plenty to pack into this unique place. Just give yourself plenty of time.
Explore Derry-Londonderry’s Coastline
Derry~Londonderry hosts many beautiful beaches and attractions along it's rugged coastline. Magilligan Martello Tower is an important historical site in Northern Ireland. It marks the entrance to Lough Foyle and is one of the most northerly on the island. Just further round the coast is Downhill beach and dunes. This special landscape offers opportunities for sightings of bird life amongst a backdrop of cascading waterfalls and the prominent Mussenden Temple, one of the most photographed buildings in Northern Ireland. The Temple offers breath-taking views of the North Coast. Downhill is one of the most scenic strands in Ireland and was used in the filming of Game of Thrones®. Castlerock is a long stretch of beach between the sea cliffs of Downhill to the west and the Lower River Bann estuary known as the Barmouth to the east. The dunes at the entrance are home to Castlerock Golf Club. It's neighbour, Portstewart strand is perfect for surfing, swimming, horse riding and scenic walks on the way marked nature trails with stunning views of Donegal.
Derry Girls
The people of Derry are world-famous for their sense of humour. That humour has been brought to our screens in recent years by those cheeky Derry Girls and you’ll find nods and winks to them all over the city. It’s unlikely you’ll miss the giant mural on the side of Badger’s Bar and you can join one of the many Derry Girls tours available in the city. Or why not pay a visit to the Tower Museum and see original memorabilia from the hit show, and step onto the set of the Quinn’s household and feel like one of the family at The Derry Girls Experience.
Plenty of Choices for Food & Drink
Derry-Londonderry’s restaurants, bistros and bars are booming. For a city of its size, the choice of food is quite remarkable. Situated on Strand Road in the heart of the city, Browns in Town is an award-winning Michelin recommended restaurant, renowned for its fine casual dining and comfortable surroundings. Try out their halloumi and beetroot salad before getting stuck into their braised shoulder of venison. If you want to try a fusion of Irish and Spanish food, look no further than El Tapas Grá in Waterloo Place. This restaurant has been winning plaudits among locals for its tasty dishes. Croquetas with a colcannon mash is just one example. If you happen to make your way over the Peace Bridge and into Ebrington Square, there are two ways you can approach The Walled City Brewery experience. Either sign up for their special one and a half hour storytelling experience where you taste the range of the brewery’s incredible house beers while munching on local artisan snacks or you can book a meal at their impressive restaurant. Or head for a pint at Sandinos, a major live music venue ranging from traditional through jazz to world music and the best DJs in town.
Plan Your Visit
To make the most out of your visit, download the Visit Derry Official Sightseeing pass - a one or two day pass giving you access to 10 of the cities attractions including historical walking tours, museums and The Guildhall. Check ahead with providers before visiting and book in advance where possible. To get a full picture of the city, check out useful information in this section, as well as our Plan Your Trip and in particular the maps and visitor guides, which are a great place to start.
