County Londonderry

Northern Ireland
Ireland showing outdoor art
Cross the preserved ramparts to reach the center of this modern commune that was divided for decades during the Troubles.

The walled city of Londonderry is regarded as the origin of the Troubles that tore Ireland apart in the late 1900s. Stroll through today’s charming streets and inspect many statues and murals commemorating the wWorld wWars, the cCivil rRights mMovement and the struggle between Irish republicans and British loyalists.

Trace the 1-mile (1.6-kilometer) circumference marked by the Derry City Walls. These well-preserved 17th-century ramparts have never been breached by attackers. Tour the walls to see cannons and viewpoints. At the epicenter stands t the Diamond, from which you can see all four original gates. Appreciate Edwardian, Georgian and Victorian architecture in Derry.

For a change of style, visit the neo-Gothic Guildhall. Browse exhibits on Irish history and climb the majestic staircase. Relax in the plaza with a view of the structure’s flamboyant façade.

Among the best places to understand Derry’s complex history are the Museum of Free Derry and Bloody Sunday Memorial. Study photos and relics belonging to the Battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday, which stand out as tragic parts of the Troubles. The museum is northwest of the city walls in an area full of political paintings and tributes. Snap photos of the You Are Now Entering Free Derry Mural that introduced the autonomous nationalist city of Free Derry from 1969 to 1972.

See the artworks in St. Columb’s Cathedral. Cross the Foyle River via the curling Peace Bridge uniting loyalist Waterside with nationalist Cityside.

Peruse boutiques and cafés in the commercial sector, where you will find the Foyleside Shopping Centre and the Richmond Centre.

Londonderry is one of Northern Ireland’s largest cities and is more commonly referred to by locals as Derry. The area has cool, rainy winters and mild to warm summers.

The city is in the northwestern corner of Northern Ireland, about 6 miles (10 kilometers) from the border with the Republic of Ireland. Drive west from Belfast for about 90 minutes to reach Derry.

Londonderry is a living museum that tells the story of centuries of social division.

Popular cities in County Londonderry

Londonderry
Londonderry
Known for Friendly people, Walking and Historical
Derry-Londonderry is Northern Ireland’s second city and became the first UK city of culture in 2013. The mix of history and youth in this riverside city is immediately noticeable when visiting for the first time. The streets are lined with boutiques, cafes and bars all catering for a vibrant social scene.

Reasons to visit

  • Derry City Walls
  • Millennium Forum
  • You are Now Entering Free Derry Mural
Portrush Beach which includes a coastal town, general coastal views and a bay or harbour
Portrush
Known for Friendly people, Sea and Beaches
Explore the scenic beaches and rocky cliffs of this quaint coastal resort. Bring the kids to the waterpark and laser tag facilities.

Reasons to visit

  • Portrush East Strand Beach
  • Portrush West Strand Beach
Mussenden Temple which includes general coastal views
Coleraine
Known for Friendly people, Rivers and Countryside
See the oldest site of human settlement in Ireland and stroll along the river in this charming town near the sea.

Reasons to visit

  • Mussenden Temple