Derry – Londonderry boasts incredible nightlife with a wide array of pubs and an eclectic, vibrant live music scene. This should come as no surprise considering the city has produced several critically acclaimed musical acts over the years, such as the Undertones and Phil Coulter, or more recently indie folk star SOAK and electronic artist Ryan Vail. Whether it’s a trad session you’re after or a night on the tiles, Derry-Londonderry's night life is sure to have everything you are looking for and more.
Find your vibe along Waterloo Street
If you’re looking for a central location to soak up the Derry-Londonderry City night life, look no further than the quaint and charming Waterloo Street with its wide selection of pubs and nightclubs.
Stroll the bustling street and discover Peadar O'Donnell's, a lively bar which hosts both traditional and contemporary music in classic yet quirky surroundings. The distinctly Irish Peadar’s is famed for its live traditional music in the form of largely organised but often impromptu sessions from local and visiting performers alike. It’s an unmissable stop on anyone’s trip to the city.
Whilst there, you can roam freely between it and its adjoining pub, the sleek and modern Gweedore Bar, another legendary name in the North West serving as a mecca for pop and rock music. If you’ve had enough of live music and fancy letting loose and having a boogie to a classic DJ set, pop on upstairs to the stylish Fifty Seven nightclub to dance the night away.
Hip haunts for independent spirits
Fancy yourself a bit of a free spirit? You should wander over to Sandino’s to experience a great night with your kind of people. This popular hipster haunt comes with both an eclectic mix of music and patrons with a distinctly welcoming, open-minded spirit. Sandino’s is a true liberal, bohemian hub but in a genuine, unpretentious way and is a local favourite of artists, musicians, and other creative types of all ages. Adorned with independence flags, portraits of famous revolutionaries, glowing fairy lights and quirky memorabilia, the atmosphere in Sandino’s is always vibrant and buzzing. Another bonus is that it is but a stone’s throw away from Derry-Londonderry's local bus station . So should you arrive by bus and find yourself thirsty, you can sip on some delicious Guinness within minutes of arrival.
Music for the maestros and the masses at Bennigan’s Bar
If Sandino’s floats your boat, consider calling up to Bennigan’s Bar, a musician’s favourite in the city on nearby John’s St. If you’re a jazz fan you might find yourself particularly enamoured with this cosy, intimate venue. But if your jazz hands aren’t at the ready, fear not as Bennigan’s packed schedule of live music also spans folk, classical and rock. If you fancy getting involved there are regular jam sessions and open mic nights or if you want to take a break from the music entirely, the bar’s movie and games nights will provide a more chilled night on the town. Rumour has it Bennigan’s even has its own mini art gallery, quirky little record shop and a traditional sweet shop.
Historical with a modern twist
If you’re looking for some late-night drinks with friends in sophisticated surroundings, you should visit the chic and modern River Inn. The River Inn is Derry's oldest sited bar, with its history stretching back to before the siege and includes a complex of bars incorporating The Cellar bar, The Snug and its newest bar, Silver Street. Tall ceilings, dark wood panelling and plush velvet interiors create a warm and luxurious atmosphere and there should be plenty of evening entertainment to keep you engaged for the night.
Gigs at the Glassworks
For larger live music events, keep an eye on the Glassworks for upcoming shows. Though only an occasional music venue, the Glassworks offers a unique and beautiful live music experience. The 19th century Georgian church was first repurposed as a music venue in 2013 during Derry-Londonderry's reign as City of Culture. Most significantly, the historical building hosted a special edition of RTE’s Other Voices and has welcomed a number of notable musical acts since. With huge pillars and tall wooden doors, the building will be a treat for you to behold, with or without music.
Derry-Londonderry truly comes alive at night and is bursting with music at its cultural heart. A night out will offer plenty for you to explore in the ‘Town That Is Loved So Well’ - be it for a night, a weekend or perhaps a little longer!
