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.

Step beyond the 400 year old city walls and County Londonderry is home to some of Northern Ireland's other giants including a Nobel Laureate. And all of this is wrapped up in a giant welcome and world-famous sense of humour.

Things to do in Derry-Londonderry 

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.

The real star of the show however is the city's historic 400 year old walls, 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. 

Then take a stroll across the Peace Bridge to Ebrington Square, before stopping off for lunch at The Walled City Brewery. The city’s first craft brewery for over a century offers top-quality food and craft beers in their multi-award winning brewhouse and restaurant. 

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).

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, musuems and The Guildhall .  More information and how to purchase can be found here.

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 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 (4*) 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.

Check ahead with providers before visiting and book in advance where possible.