Derry is a compact city on the River Foyle, its centre cutely contained within a circuit of historic walls. Wedged between the Wild Atlantic Way and the Causeway Coast route, a visit with Deluxe Tours and Transfers can be combined with a longer adventure, although Derry itself warrants a city break alone – many wee gems are waiting to be discovered. Expect traditional pubs, quirky eateries, cultural sights, and pretty photo opportunities.
Derry’s people have as much character as the city itself. The community is more like a town than a city, where family businesses are the norm and locals warmly greet each other in the passing. Life’s greatest characters are those who have really lived, and Derry has survived through troubled times. It is quickly emerging as a vibrant tourist destination
1) Walk the City Walls.
The Derry Walls is the only completely walled city in Ireland, and 2018 marks the 400-year anniversary of the iconic walls. Let me tell you, they’re looking pretty fine for their age! The inclines and dips on the one mile circumference provide a pleasant burst of exertion, as well as unrivalled vistas of the city surrounds. Look out for the original gates to the city, and the cannons which were fired during the seventeenth century conflict. To really enhance your experience on the walls, book a guided walk with Deluxe tours ; Our charismatic guides will have you laughing and crying, as we journey around the walls, and learn about the city we proudly call home.
2) Indulge in the thriving food & drink scene.
Derry is a city of seriously good taste. Local restaurants are moving with the times, and embracing the fine regional produce on offer. In fact, the city was shortlisted for ‘Foodie Destination of Ireland 2018’ for its culinary efforts. I’m a big fan of local ingredients, made with love, and served in a quirky setting. I was pleased to discover a number of cute eateries which completely fit the bill.
If it’s post-dinner tipples you’re after, head to popular traditional pub Peadar O’Donnells for live music with the locals. Craft beer fans will love the Walled City Brewery on the other side of the River Foyle. The former army barracks have been transformed into an award-winning gastro pub and brewery, with beer bottle chandeliers and a mosaic feature wall – also made from beer bottles.
3) Learn about the city’s turbulent past.
Derry has no shortage of complex history, and you only have to mention the double-barrelled name (Derry-Londonderry) to gain a quick insight into this. The locals that you encounter are very willing to share their experiences in a personal and factual way, for the purpose of promoting peace and understanding. The Siege Museum, which opened in 2016, tells the story of the thirteen Apprentice Boys who closed the gates to the city during the siege led by James VII & II in 1689; in 105 days, over 10,000 people within the city walls died from disease and hunger.
To delve into the more recent history known as ‘the troubles’, you can join numerous tours which ventures around the area where some of the key events and atrocities took place. Meet local tour guides like Deluxe who give a passionate, personal account of events, we will take you around and explain how Northern Ireland’s peace process is something that other countries can continue to learn from.
4) Walk over the Peace Bridge.
The Peace Bridge was built in 2011 to symbolise a new era for Derry, free from the tension and conflict which had impacted the city for centuries. Funded by the European Peace Fund, the steel bridge – which connects the predominately Catholic and Protestant areas – weighs 1000 tonnes and cost £14.2 million. As well as being a practical pedestrian link between the east and west banks of the city, it is also a beautiful and iconic structure. A walk over the Peace Bridge, day or night, promises a most pleasant stretch of the legs and lovely views of the city.
5) Visit the adorable Craft Village.
Derry’s Craft Village is my favourite wee pocket of the city. Step back in time as you wander around the reconstructed 18th century street and 19th century square. The brickwork and colourful buildings are totally charming, with the iconic Guildhall clock peeking over the rooftops. The Craft Village is home to a selection of quirky independent businesses and retailers; you’ll find crafts and cakes, books and homeware. The highlight for me was Soda & Starch, a cute little eatery with a delicious menu of locally sourced ingredients and freshly baked bread. A warm and satisfying dining experience is guaranteed!
6) Experience the world-famous Halloween celebrations.
Derry’s Halloween has been voted as the top destination to celebrate Halloween in the world. Who knew?! Once a small festival for locals, the spooktacular Halloween festivities have stretched from a one-day event to a whole week, and believe me, they do not do things by halves. Street performers, a Halloween parade, fireworks, illuminations and installations on the city walls, a Halloween ball, and everyone out on Halloween in fancy dress – kids, parents, grandparents. People now travelling from all over the world to witness this spectacular festive period.
Local businesses fully embrace the Halloween celebrations in Derry; why not have toffee apple craft beer at the Walled City Brewery, pumpkin ravioli at Browns in Town, and spiced pumpkin and apple soup at Soda & Starch. You can have the pleasure (absolutely not the correct word) of attending the utterly terrifying ‘Fright Night’ at Jungle NI, which is a one-hour drive from the city. Imagine a forest park dressed up like a horror movie set, and being continually chased and screamed at by clowns, zombies, and freaks with chainsaws.