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  • Bishop's Gate Hotel
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Derry/Londonderry, Northern Ireland – The 15 Best Things to See

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Derry/Londonderry is the second biggest city of Northern Ireland , after Belfast. It’s a walled city, and there is so much history within the city walls.

The question is:

What are the best things to see during your stay in Derry/Londonderry?

Well, that’s exactly what you’re going to see in this guide.

15 best things to see in londonderry northern ireland

In this travel guide about the best things to see in Derry/Londonderry, you’ll find in the table of contents below everything that we’ll see. Simply click on the table to expand it , then click on any part you’d like to jump to.

TABLE OF CONTENTS

A little bit about Derry/Londonderry

Where is derry/londonderry, the 15 best things to see in derry/londonderry, map of the best spots in derry/londonderry, where to stay in derry/londonderry, visit northern ireland.

First things first, is it Derry or Londonderry?

The city of many names

The city was originally named Derry, from the Irish “ Daire “, meaning “oak tree”. It was then anglicized to “Derry”.

In 1613,  the name was changed to Londonderry .

The name of the city is now a topic of dispute between Irish nationalists (using Derry) and unionists (using Londonderry).

The city is often referred to as Derry/Londonderry for inclusion.

Derry/Londonderry is famous for having many names :

  • Londonderry
  • Derry/Londonderry
  • The Stroke City (because of the “/” used in the name)
  • The Maiden City (the walls of the city have never been breached)
  • The Walled City
  • The City of Culture (designated UK City of Culture in 2013)
  • Legenderry (I swear I’m not making this one up)

Northern Ireland Second Biggest City

With more than 107,000 inhabitants , Derry/Londonderry is the second biggest city in Northern Ireland after Belfast , and one of the best UK city breaks . 

You’ll find below a few interesting facts about Derry/Londonderry and the history of the city:

  • the walls of the city have never been breached
  • it’s the only medieval city wall still fully intact in Europe
  • Derry/Londonderry is where the tragic event of Bloody Sunday took place on 30th January 1972

Derry/Londonderry is located on the north west side of Northern Ireland, next to the border with Ireland .

The city is built on the River Foyle, and belongs to the Londonderry County.

street in derry londonderry

I loved exploring Derry/Londonderry, because it’s literally filled with beautiful buildings and interesting things to see. If you have plenty of time, simply go walk in the streets , and you’ll be sure to discover epic places.

If you are spending a weekend in Derry/Londonderry (or even less), and want to know the very best things to see in the city, here’s the full list of the 15 best things to see:

  • The Guildhall
  • Shipquay Gate
  • Derry City Walls
  • The Peace Bridge
  • St Columb’s Cathedral
  • Double Bastion
  • St Eugene’s Cathedral
  • Bloody Sunday Memorial
  • Bogside Murals
  • St Columba’s Church
  • The World Oldest Independent Department Store
  • Hands Across the Divide Monument
  • Old Victorian Train Station
  • St Columb’s Park
  • Burt Castle

Keep reading below for more information about each place, along with photos that will help you decide if you’ll add this place to your list of things to see or just skip it.

1- The Guildhall

The Guildhall is a massive Beaux-Arts style building, built in 1890. I first thought it was in church, but it’s in fact a government building . It’s one of the most iconic construction in Derry/Londonderry.

the guildhall derry londonderry

In addition to seeing the Guildhall from the outside, you can actually visit it; I strongly encourage you to go inside , to see the impressive stained glass windows, and the pipe organ.

The Guildhall and its square are the center of the city , and I will refer to the other places in this list of 15 best places to see with their distance from the Guildhall.

2- Shipquay Gate

All around Derry/Londonderry old town, there is a fortified wall, with several entries: 4 original gates, plus 3 gates that were added later. The main gate is Shipquay Gate, right next to the River Foyle, and in front of the Guildhall.

shipquay gate derry londonderry

By crossing the gate, you effectively enter Derry/Londonderry city center. If you go up on the walls, you’ll get a nice view over the Guildhall (this is where I took the Guildhall photo above).

Distance from Guildhall : 1 minute walking time

3- Derry City Walls

Also named the Walled City , Derry/Londonderry is the only walled city in Europe with its surrounding wall still completely intact. Built in 1619, the walls were never breached, and even withstood a 105 days siege ( Siege of Derry , 1689).

the city walls derry londonderry

Image by Sean Mack under CC BY 3.0

You can go up on the walls, and stroll around the city on the 1 mile loop (1.6 km). It’s the perfect way to explore the city, and you’ll have stunning views on all of the major monuments of Derry/Londonderry.

Distance from Guildhall : 2 minutes walking time

4- The Peace Bridge

The Peace Bridge, recently built in 2011 , is a beautiful 312 meters long (1000 feet) s-shaped bridge over the River Foyle, the 3rd bridge in the city with the Craigavon Bridge and the Foyle Bridge.

It was built as an attempt to bridge the gap between the 2 sides of the river, between the Protestants on the east bank, and the Catholics on the west bank.

the peace bridge derry londonderry

From the east entrance of the bridge, you’ll have a nice view of the Peace Bridge with the Guildhall in between the 2 pillars.

Distance from Guildhall : 3 minutes walking time, and 3 minutes to cross it

5- St Columb’s Cathedral

After the Guildhall tower, the second tower you’ll notice when approaching Derry/Londonderry is the spire of St Columb’s Cathedral. Built in 1633, the Cathedral is named after Saint Columba , a monk from Ireland who created a small village there in the 6th century.

st columb cathedral derry londonderry

The cathedral is jaw-dropping from the outside; you can view it from the City Walls, or get closer. You can also visit it, and see the work of art inside, with the stained glass windows, coupled with a vast number of historical items stored in the Cathedral.

Find opening times here: St Columb’s Cathedral info

Distance from Guildhall : 8 minutes walking time

6- Double Bastion

The Double Bastion is a stronghold on the City Walls, and the most famous of all the bastions; it was where “ Roaring Meg ” was, an intimidating cannon used during the siege of Derry, named this way because of the terrifying sound it made when being fired.

the barracks derry londonderry

From the bastion, you have a panoramic view over all the military barracks in the distance.

Distance from Guildhall : 10 minutes walking time

7- St Eugene’s Cathedral

St Eugene’s Cathedral is another stunning monument in Derry/Londonderry. Its most unique feature is the 78 meters high spire (256 feet).

st eugene cathedral derry londonderry

You can see the Cathedral from the City Walls, and also from the other bank of the River Foyle. If you love stained glass window, you will love visiting the Cathedral.

8- Bloody Sunday Memorial

On 30th January 1972, British soldiers shot unarmed people who were only protesting, in Derry/Londonderry. 13 died on the spot, and 1 man died 4 months later. It’s one of the main event of Ireland history, and still pretty vivid in memories today.

bloody sunday memorial derry londonderry

Image by Finn Terman Frederiksen  under CC BY 2.0

There is now a monument in the same area, the Bloody Sunday Monument, with a memorial to all the victims.

Distance from Guildhall : 6 minutes walking time

9- Bogside Murals

Right next to the Bloody Sunday memorial, in the Bogside area of the city, you’ll find the Bogside Murals.

Free Derry corner, Northern Ireland

Image by Giuseppe Milo  under CC BY 2.0

bogside murals derry londonderry

Image by Diego Cue under CC BY-SA 3.0

The murals in Derry/Londonderry are more than just graffitis. They are a way to protest the brutality that happened in the city, and also a tribute to all of the victims.

Distance from Guildhall : 5 minutes walking time

10- St Columba’s Church

Situated outside of the City Walls, St Columba’s Church was built in 1783. It’s a complementary experience to St Columba’s Cathedral, where you will learn the history of the funding father of Derry/Londonderry.

St Columba church derry londonderry

Copyright Northern Ireland Tourist Board

Distance from Guildhall : 12 minutes walking time

11- The World Oldest Independent Department Store

In Derry/Londonderry, you will find what used to be the World Oldest Independent Department Store, Austins Department Store . The store lost its status in 2016 , when it suddenly closed on 8th March 2016.

world oldest independent department store derry londonderry

The store is still a beautiful building to see, and it’s also the opportunity to see the War Memorial on the same square.

12- Hands Across the Divide monument

The Hands Across the Divide monument was erected in 1992, in the same spirit of the Peace Bridge: to bring the 2 communities together . If you enter the city from the south, via the Craigavon Bridge, this is the first thing you’ll see.

Hands across the Divide Derry londonderry

While you’re in the area, you’ll also see the Carlisle Road Presbyterian church (in the background on the picture above), and colorful traditional buildings.

13- Old Victorian Train Station

Built in 1875, the Victorian Train Station in Derry/Londonderry was the primary connection between the city and the capital, Belfast. It was replaced in 1980 by a regular train station, but the Old Victorian Train Station is still in perfect conservation , and the building is worth seeing.

old victorian train station derry londonderry

While you’re on this side of the River Foyle, you’ll have a beautiful view of the city and St Columb’s Cathedral, and their reflection in the river.

Distance from Guildhall : 20 minutes walking time

14- St Columb’s Park

There are many parks and green area around Derry/Londonderry, but St Columb’s Park is my favorite. It’s situated right next to the river, and you can stroll on the banks, along the river, with a view over the city.

st brecan chapel in st columb park derry londonderry

Image by Marek Paciorek under CC BY-NC-ND 2.0

You can also see the ruins of St Brecan’s Chapel in the park.

Distance from Guildhall : 15 minutes walking time

15- Burt Castle

The last item on this list of 15 things to see in Derry/Londonderry is Burt Castle . It’s also the furthest from the city center.

burt castle northern ireland

Image by Greg Clarke under CC BY 2.0

Built in the 16th century in Scottish style, the Burt Castle was the stronghold of Cahir O’Doherty , who had over 100 men in the castle.

Distance from Guildhall : 1h10 walking time / 17 minutes drive

To make it easy for you to plan your trip to Derry/Londonderry, and to visit all the best spots, I have created a free custom map with all the 15 locations.

You can find the map below:

If you’re visiting Derry/Londonderry, here are the best options for where to stay based on your budget/travel style:

Budget : Serendipity House . No real hostel anymore in Derry, but this one will run you around 45€ per night by person if you get a 2 person room.

Comfy : Walled City B&B Belfast . Comfy double room with private bathroom in the center of Derry/Londonderry (8 minutes walk to the Guildhall). Breakfast is included , for around 58€ per night .

Luxury : Bishop’s Gate Hotel . The best hotel in the area, where I stayed when I was exploring Derry/Londonderry. The ideal location, right in the center. Rated 9.5/10 by 460 visitors on Booking.com, you can’t really go wrong with this one. Rooms for around 126€ per night .

the view from the peace bridge derry londonderry

Planning a trip to Northern Ireland? I’ve listed below the main destinations to visit, along with travel times (by car) from Derry/Londonderry:

Dunluce Castle : 1h

Belfast : 1h30

Dublin : 3h30

Cliffs of Moher : 5h

I hope you enjoy your trip to Derry/Londonderry and Northern Ireland !

If you have any questions, let me know in the comments below, I always reply.

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Derry Londonderry is the second biggest city of Northern Ireland, after Belfast. It’s a walled city, and there is so much history within the city walls. The question is: What are the best things to see during your stay in Derry/Londonderry? Well, that’s exactly what you’re going to see in this guide. things to do in londonderry ireland | londonderry northern ireland | londonderry ireland travel

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Hey, I'm Kevin

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I'm a professional photographer, with over a decade of experience in the travel industry. I worked with countless travel brands, and my travel advice has been featured in major publications such as CNN, Forbes & the New York Magazine. But the best travel advice is definitely found here on my website! I'm all about adventure travel, hiking and exploring the outdoors - even if I often find myself exploring cities with my wife Nesrine. If you have any questions, leave a comment on this post or reach out by email at: [email protected]

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The Dark Hedges, Northern Ireland – The Complete Guide

really great round up of wonderful things to see in my home town but I wondered why you haven’t included St Augustine’s Church which sits on the Walls and is very iconic due to it’s long and unique history (it’s even been used in the filming of Derry girls !) It also have gravestones with the cross & bones on them within the grounds of the church. It’s well worth a visit and a place that you must’ve passed by if you walked along the walls on your way to the Double Bastion. Cheers !

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Sunset over Derry, Northern Ireland

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Derry (Londonderry)

Northern Ireland's second-largest city continues to flourish as an artistic and cultural hub. Derry's city centre was given a striking makeover for its year as the UK City of Culture 2013, with the construction of the Peace Bridge, Ebrington Sq, and the redevelopment of the waterfront and Guildhall area making the most of the city's splendid riverside setting.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Derry (Londonderry). Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

People's Gallery Murals

People's Gallery Murals

The 12 murals that decorate the gable ends of houses along Rossville St, near Free Derry Corner, are popularly referred to as the People's Gallery. They…

Derry's City Walls

Derry's City Walls

The best way to get a feel for Derry's layout and history is to walk the 1.5km circumference of the city's walls. Completed in 1619, Derry's city walls…

Guildhall

Standing just outside the city walls, the neo-Gothic Guildhall was originally built in 1890, then rebuilt after a fire in 1908. Its fine stained-glass…

Tower Museum

Tower Museum

Head straight to the 5th floor of this award-winning museum inside a replica 16th-century tower house for a view from the top. Then work your way down…

St Columb's Cathedral

St Columb's Cathedral

Built between 1628 and 1633 from the same grey-green schist as the city walls, this was the first post-Reformation church to be erected in Britain and…

Museum of Free Derry

Museum of Free Derry

Just off Rossville St, this excellent museum chronicles the history of the Bogside, the Civil Rights Movement and the events of Bloody Sunday through…

DERRY, NORTHERN IRELAND - MARCH 15:  The Hands Across The Divide statue is silhouetted againts the sky on March 15, 2010 in Derry, Northern Ireland. The Bloody Sunday Inquiry chaired by Lord Saville was established in 1998 to look at the shooting dead of 14 civil rights marchers by the British Army in Derry, Northern Ireland on January 30, 1972. Lord Saville and his fellow judges have spoken to 921 witnesses during the longest legal proceedings in British and Irish history. Their report is due to be sent to the Government by the end of March 2010.  (Photo by Peter Macdiarmid/Getty Images)

Hands Across the Divide

As you enter the city across Craigavon Bridge, the first thing you see is the Hands Across the Divide monument. This striking bronze sculpture of two men…

St Columba's Church

St Columba's Church

Outside the city walls to the southwest is Long Tower Church, Derry’s first post-Reformation Catholic church. Built in 1784 in neo-Renaissance style, it…

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How to Spend a Day in Derry/Londonderry

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Do you know the song Danny Boy? It was based off an old folk tune from County Derry. Beyond its musical tradition, Derry/Londonderry has a fascinating history as the most complete walled city in the British Isles. It was infamous during The Troubles for its violence and division, but it now serves as a fantastic destination for visitors from all over the world. While you could spend several days exploring the town, many people only have one day to explore. With this in mind, here is how to spend a day in Derry/Londonderry.

Table of Contents

Why Does This City Have Two Names?

Northern Ireland is a complex place with a tragic history. During the Troubles, a lot of violence took place here. The divisions are so deep that the Catholic and Protestant communities have different names for the city in which they live; Derry and Londonderry respectively. To be as apolitical as possible, I’ll use Derry/Londonderry.

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Arriving in Derry

Derry/Londonderry is Northern Ireland’s second-largest city. As such, it has good connections all across the region, with links extending into the Republic of Ireland. If traveling from Belfast, the train takes about two and a half hours, which allows for plenty of time to explore the town. There are also plenty of buses from Belfast and other Northern Irish towns to Derry. Belfast, the capital of Northern Ireland, is a phenomenal place to visit in its own right ; many visitors to Derry will arrive from here.

The train station is on the east side of the river, across from the walled town. There is a pleasant walking path from the station that leads to the Peace Bridge, an impressive modern structure built to heal the town’s divisions. It also allows visitors easy access to the historic town from the station, as the Guildhall and tourist info center are right on the other end of the bridge. The path from the station to the center of town takes about twenty minutes.

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Starting Out

The Visit Derry Information Center is the natural place to start your visit. Not only are the staff exceptionally friendly, but you can find great information about the city and surrounding area. If you’re visiting for the day, the office has left-luggage storage. If luggage isn’t an issue, take the time to ask about things to do or places to eat, or just grab some brochures and hit the town. You can find it in the same square as the Guildhall, just below an entrance to the city walls.

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Along the Walls

The tourist office convenient for those arriving from the train station, but there is also a staircase right outside that goes up to the city wall. Start here and follow the walls around the city. The entire circuit is about a mile in length, but take the time to explore sights just off the wall as well. For example, there are several fascinating churches right at the bottom of the stairs off the wall.

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Moving counterclockwise from the visitor center, you’ll come to the First Presbyterian Church of Derry. In addition to its beautiful interior, it also has a small museum on the history of the church and Derry.

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Next, continue along the walls to take in impressive views of the Bogside district and the surrounding hills. Costumed actors interpret scenes from Derry’s history on some days-they are informative and entertaining. Spend as much time as you’d like along this stretch-the views are quite impressive.

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After this section of walls, you’ll come to St Columb’s Cathedral. This 17th century church was built about the same time as the walls themselves. It is a Protestant cathedral, and was built as such, which gives it a unique history. The sandstone walls and columns give it a natural feel distinct from other churches in Ireland. St Columb’s is set in a pleasant garden with a number of graves and memorials, so visitors can take a nice break from the walls.

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Finally, follow the walls around until you reach the point where you started just outside the Visit Derry tourist office. This walk could take anywhere from two hours to a full day depending on how often you stop. The wall is just a guideline, of course; climbing down and exploring within town is important to get a full understanding of Derry/Londonderry.

Down in the Bogside

Derry/Londonderry remains a divided town. The Protestant population lives mostly within the city walls, while the Catholics live primarily in the Bogside district. The Bogside is infamous for the violence that took place there during the Troubles, but it is quite safe now. Leave the walled town to see the Nationalist and Republican murals, as well as the world-famous Free Derry Corner.

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While I didn’t have a lot of time to explore the Bogside district, it was not a long walk at all from the Walled Town. If you only have time for one thing, see the Free Derry monument and walk back up the hill; you’ll also pass the Bloody Sunday memorial and a number of sectarian murals.

In addition to the recent history, there are great views towards the city walls. A green park sweeps down from the walls into the Bogside, allowing for unobstructed views.

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Final Thoughts

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Derry/Londonderry is an unmissable destination in Northern Ireland. Not only does it have a history of sieges and warfare from the 17th century on to the 20th, but it also has a surprising amount of culture. The culinary scene is thriving, as are the music and theater scenes. There are great transport links all over Northern Ireland and to County Donegal in the Republic of Ireland. While I recommend staying at least one night, you can still see and do a lot if you only have one day.

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8 Reasons Why You Should Include Derry In Your Northern Ireland Itinerary

Posted on Last updated: 23/02/2024

Categories IRELAND , NORTHERN IRELAND , UNITED KINGDOM

There is something about Derry (also known as Londonderry) that keeps me going back.

Maybe being so close to the Republic of Ireland’s border and having a recent troubled past gives it a bit of an edge, or maybe it’s the fact that it’s totally underrated and sometimes overlooked by visitors to the Emerald Isle.

Derry City Walls, one of the reasons Derry should be included in your Northern Ireland itinerary

There is definitely something special about the Walled City, so I’ve been giving it some thought and I’ve come up with a few reasons why everyone should include Derry in their Northern Ireland itinerary.

Table of Contents

  • 1.1 Derry is one of the finest Walled Cities in Europe
  • 1.2 Derry is a sustainable foodie destination
  • 1.3 Derry has Northern Ireland’s Authentic Experience of the Year
  • 1.4 There’s a whole street illustrating Derry’s recent history
  • 1.5 Derry is the perfect base to explore Northern Ireland
  • 1.6 And to explore the north of the Republic too
  • 1.7 Derry is the Halloween Capital of the World
  • 2.1 Bishops Gate Hotel
  • 2.2 Maldron Hotel Derry
  • 2.3 City Hotel
  • 3 Tour ideas in Derry

Reasons to include Derry in your Northern Ireland itinerary

Derry is one of the finest walled cities in europe.

City Walls in Derry - part of your Northern Ireland Itinerary

Derry is the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland, and it is these Walls that are the city’s most famous attraction.

They were built in the 17 th  century as a defence structure by the Irish Society for the English and Scottish settlers. You can imagine that these Walls hide an incredible amount of history.

Today you can imagine and relive a little bit of that history by following the walkway that the Walls form around the inner city. The best way to bring the Walls and the history of the city to life is by joining a city tour .

You will come across plenty of points of interest along the City Walls, including the cannons that were actually used in the famous Siege of Derry. Also, the promenade offers the best views of the original town and over the Bogside, outside of the City Walls.

Derry is a sustainable foodie destination

A tray of colourful sliced vegetable pickles

Believe it or not, Derry is one of the best places to visit in Northern Ireland if you are a foodie. I discovered this on my previous visit and it was a bit of a revelation.

Something that I loved was that local restaurants put a lot of emphasis in the quality of the ingredients used in their dishes. But not only that, there was a consistent focus on sourcing local ingredients as much as possible.

Some of the menus even gave details of what farm the meat and vegetables where coming from – something that every restaurant should aim for, in my opinion.

Some of my favourite restaurants in Derry  are Walled City Brewery and Brickworks for great food and a relaxed atmosphere, and Browns for more of a fine dining experience.

Derry has Northern Ireland’s Authentic Experience of the Year

Display of a painted metal bin lid used to alert the neighbourhood during The Troubles

For decades Derry was at the centre of the conflict known as The Troubles. The city has come a long way since then, and part of the healing process was to set up the Museum of Free Derry.

This museum is a must visit in the city, with its poignant exhibitions of Derry’s recent past. It tells the story of what happened in the city during the period of 1968-1972, popularly known as ‘Free Derry’, and it includes the civil rights era, Battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday.

It is by no means a political museum, but rather an educational project that very successfully puts Derry into a wider Irish and international context.

There’s a whole street illustrating Derry’s recent history

Free Derry Corner and murals from the People's Gallery by The Bogside Artists

During the Troubles, there was one particular event that marked the city. In 1972 Bloody Sunday took place, when British soldiers shot 28 civilians during a peaceful civil rights march.

These events have been depicted on a total of twelve large-scale murals along the entire length of Rossville Street, in the Bogside. The murals were painted by the Bogside Artists, a group of three local mural painters. They called this collection of murals The People’s Gallery.

As well as illustrating the history of thirty years of conflict, The People’s Gallery also includes work that demonstrates how far the communities in Derry have come to build bridges. There is certainly an air of optimism about the future in the city.

The best way to explore The People’s Gallery and learn about the events and people represented on each of the murals is by taking a walking tour of the Bogside .

Derry is the perfect base to explore Northern Ireland

Road flanked by trees growing inwards creating a tunnel

With a great choice of accommodation and plenty of things to do , Derry is the ideal base to explore Northern Ireland. It is only a drive away from popular sites such as the Giant’s Causeway, the Dark Hedges and Carrick-a-Rede, and Belfast is only one and half hours away.

But there are also plenty of options for day trips that are right in the city’s doorstep. One thing is for sure, you will not run out of places to go in Northern Ireland from Derry.

Derry is also the ideal point to start a Northern Ireland road trip that includes the spectacular Causeway Coastal Route, and other Game of Thrones filming locations. Here you can find some tips of how find GOT’s filming locations as well as other Ireland travel tips .

For the best car hire deals, I use a comparison site .

And to explore the north of the Republic too

Standing on the rocking cliffs holding two light sabers from Star Wars

If you have seen enough on your itinerary of Northern Ireland (is that even possible?), Derry offers the option to also explore a bit of Ireland.

Derry is located right by the border with Donegal, so there are plenty of day trips that you can do there too. From the Walled City you can easily reach Glenveagh National Park, with its castle, lough, and cycling and walking trails.

You can also visit places like Dunfanaghy, ideal for horse riding on the beach, and even Ardara and its beautiful surroundings.

One highlight less than an hour away is Malin Head, a truly breathtaking headland and the filming location of Star Wars Episode VIII. Malin Head is also the southbound starting point of the famous Wild Atlantic Way , so why not spend some time in Derry before setting off?

Compare the best car hire deals here .

Derry is the Halloween Capital of the World

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Yes, you read that right. Halloween in Derry is a pretty big deal, and the world is now cottoning on to it. So don’t be left out.

Halloween is thought to originate from the ancient Gaelic festival of Samhain, when according to tradition, the spirits of the dead came back to walk the earth before the new Celtic year began on 1 st  November.

Fast-forward over 2,000 years and Derry has become the centre of Halloween celebrations. This is where the City Walls come to life with the Awakening of the Walls, a trail that follows the wall with supernatural installations and performances.

There are magic drummers that appear out of nowhere and entrance their audience, and the Return of the Ancients parade that snakes through the city. And absolutely everyone in Derry gets involved and dressed up – from the youngest to the oldest in every family.

It is for a reason that USA Today  voted Derry the Best Halloween Destination in the World.

View of County Derry and Donegal from the air

READ MORE 6 Celtic Destinations To Visit In Ireland This Year

Where to stay in Derry

Bishops gate hotel.

Bishops Gate Hotel Derry Northern Ireland Ulster Londonderry

Located within the historic city walls in the heart of Derry City’s Cathedral Quarter, Bishops Gate Hotel is ideal to explore Derry’s iconic tourist landmarks during Halloween. Read Tripadvisor reviews here.

Book Bishops Gate Hotel here

Maldron Hotel Derry

Room with two beds at the Maldron Hotel in Derry

Maldron Hotel Derry is a 4-star hotel located within Derry’s historic city walls, and offers a luxurious stay and easy access to the city’s theatres, restaurants, shops and, of course, the Halloween celebrations. Read Tripadvisor Reviews here.

Book Maldron Hotel Derry here

City Hotel Derry Northern Ireland Ulster Londonderry

On the banks of the River Foyle, City Hotel is perfectly located from the main Halloween celebrations, particularly the Return of the Ancients Parade and the Fireworks Finale. Read Tripadvisor reviews here.

Book City Hotel here

Tour ideas in Derry

  • Derry: Walled City Private Tour
  • Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Private Guided Walking Tour
  • Derry Girls TV Show Filming Locations Tour

Do you have any questions about Derry? Ask me below!

Like this post? Pin and save for later 

8 Reasons to Visit Derry, Northern Ireland

Disclosure:  A big thank you to Visit Derry and Tourism Ireland who hosted me on this trip. As always, all views are my own.

In a pink ice cream parlour, I am smiling as I look at 10 various flavoured ice cream cones and a large chocolate coated strawberry dessert

Teresa is an award-winning travel blogger based in London. She’s on a mission to explore the world through responsible cultural and adventure travel , and through deeper, more meaningful local experiences. She’s a lover of adventure, the outdoors and everything food related, and she’s always looking for ways to make a positive impact through sustainable travel .

Catherine’s Cultural Wednesdays

Tuesday 15th of January 2019

I did not know that you fly to Derry from London, hmmm nowhere is my travel planning hat

Saturday 9th of February 2019

Hehe. It’s so convenient! It’s a nice and easy hop across ?

Saturday 12th of January 2019

What a great post and very timely, too! I'll be traveling to Northern Ireland this summer. I haven't started fully researching the trip yet, but Derry sounds like an ideal location to spend a few nights and to explore as Giant's Causeway has been on my bucket list for far too long. And, great news about the flights from Stanstead. That would be so much more easier than dealing with Heathrow. Thanks for sharing!

I’m glad that this is coming handy. Derry is definitely a great base to explore Northern Ireland. Have a fabulous time this summer and let me know if you need any tips ?

the Curious Pixie

Didn't realise you could fly direct from London. Love to visit the Giant Causeway, this is the perfect base.

Yes, it’s a short and easy flight. And the Giant’s Causeway is not to far. There loads of things you can do nearby ?

It looks so lovely! I have yet to visit Norther Ireland! But you sold me at "it's a foodie town"

I hope you get to visit. The food there is unreal! You’d love it!

You've convinced me! I'll include Derry on my list when traveling to Northern Ireland :)

Fabulous! I hope you love it as much I did ?

Where should you travel next? Take the free quiz!

Volumes & Voyages

Essential Derry Travel Guide

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When we think of places to visit in Northern Ireland, Belfast and the attractions around Antrim are normally what come to mind. This Derry travel guide will show you there are other places worth visiting too!

But, Derry City is not one to be missed. This compact little city is full to the brim with Irish History, numerous attractions, and fun events throughout the year and has a beautiful Skyline. 

chapel in derry

Table of Contents

How to get to Derry

Many people may be surprised to know that there is actually a domestic airport in Derry. If you are in the UK, you can fly directly to Derry from Manchester, Glasgow, Edinburgh, Liverpool, and London .

From outside of the UK, you can fly into Belfast airport. Derry is under 2 hours bus ride away. 

I always stand by saying that the easiest and best way to see Ireland and Northern Ireland is by car. If you rent a car from Belfast airport, it is a 1-hour 25-minute drive on the M2, joining the M22 and finally on to the A6 right the way to Derry.

From Dublin, it is a ~3-hour drive. Head north on the M1 out of Dublin, but turn off at Ardee on the N33. Join the N2 and continue on this road right the way to the A5 across the border, which will bring you directly to Derry.

If you prefer motorways, another way is to drive is to head on the M1 to Belfast and then on to Derry using the instructions above. This way is ~  3 hours 10 minutes, but you will have to go through Belfast City and there may be traffic delays.  

Public Transport : Bus

You can take Airporter, which is a direct coach from Derry to the Belfast airports. There are also great bus links between northern and the republic of Ireland, with John McGinley Coach Travel providing an express bus from Dublin to Derry. 

sign that says the guide to free derry

How To Get Around Derry

Luckily, Derry is a compact city and the easiest way to get around is on foot. Most places in the city are a short walk away from each other. There are also 3 taxi companies available, in case of probable rain! 

An open-top bus tour is always a great way to get around while seeing some of the best spots in the city. This is one of the things I always do when visiting the city. It is great when you can hop on and off in different parts of the city. 

What to See in Derry

You may be surprised by just how many things there are to do and see in Derry, most of which are steeped in the city’s troubled past. 

Derry City Walls

A unique thing about the city is that it was a completely walled city and these walls still stand today. They were built between 1613-1618 to protect against settlers. 

You can now follow the walled path right the way around the inner city. It is complete with watchtowers, battlements, and cannons and gives you unique views of the city below.

One of the most memorable things about Derry is the murals. Derry is known for “the troubles”, or, the conflict between Nationalist and Unionist communities. Striking murals can be seen around the city. The most famous of which is a white wall which reads “you are now entering Free Derry”.

building that says you are now entering free derry

The others all illustrate some of the incidents that have taken place in Derry including:

Bloody Sunday which took place in 1972 – During protests, British Soldiers killed 26 Irish Civilians, 14 of which died.

The Death of Innocence – A mural in the memory of a 14-year-old girl shot in 1971.

However, there are MANY more.

These murals preserve the history of what has happened in this city and can be seen on the “Bogside” of the city in the nationalist neighbourhood. If you take a trip over to the Loyalist neighbourhood of the city, you will see several other murals, dominated by blue, white, and red which show a different perspective.

The Guildhall

This neo-gothic building dominates the Derry skyline. This building is home to the council’s chamber and mayor’s parlour but all visitors are welcome. You can learn all about the ulster plantations in the exhibition downstairs and it is really interesting to learn more about the history here. 

There are beautiful stained-glass windows in the building as well as a large organ upstairs. There is a cafe on-site as well.

The Peace Bridge

the peace bridge in northern ireland at night

The Iconic peace bridge is relatively new to the city, being completed in 2011. It’s a pedestrian and cycle bridge across the River Foyle.

The architect-designed the bridge as a way to symbolise reconciliation between both “sides” of Derry. It is photo-worthy at all times of day but particularly at night where it lights up the city and river.

Derry Girls Locations

The hit TV show Derry girls is based in the city and highlights the tension between the nationalist and unionist civilians at the time. There are numerous locations from filming in the city including Our Lady’s Immaculate College, Fionnuala’s Fish & Chips shop and there is even a Derry Girls Mural now up in the city.

Halloween: If you are on the Island of Ireland on Halloween, Derry is where you want to be. The city throws a huge Halloween festival and is actually known as the biggest Halloween celebration in Europe

Foyle Maritime Festival : The Foyle Maritime Festival has taken place the last few years as the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race has seen numerous 7ft yachts sweep through the Foyle River. 

Where to Stay in Derry

There is something for everyone in Derry from award-winning hotels to affordable BnBs. 

brick building in downtown derry

The Maldron Hotel is a 4-star hotel with rooms starting at ~112 euro. The hotel has parking and is located right in the city.

City Hotel Derry is another 4 star, right along the banks of the River Foyle. Double rooms start at ~128 euros.

Guest Houses/Airbnb’s

For budget-friendly stays, there are so many guest houses.

All times I have been in Derry, I have stayed in Airbnb’s and guest houses. My favourite has been “Chamberlain House”. 

It is perfectly located in the heart of the city and has parking included at the back of the property. You can meet the owner on checking and come and go as you please. There are kitchen facilities and a laundry room and is really such a good location. Less than 5 minutes walk to the main streets in town.

Twin rooms start at ~70 euro. This is such a great affordable option for those on a budget like me! 

derry clocktower

Where to Eat in Derry

In Derry, you will come across your usual mainstream restaurants such as Nando’s but there are so many other great places to grab a meal.

Granny Annie’s

This restaurant and bar has three locations in Northern Ireland and goes by the slogan “You’re at your Granny’s”. It is super warm and cosy and is great for lunch, and is also a bar with live music at night.

Also, check out the toilets! They are very uniquely designed. The men’s “Granda’s” is designed to represent Grandad William’s garage where he fixed tractors.

The lady’s “granny’s” toilets are designed after Annie. It resembles her dressing room with numerous handbags hanging from the ceiling. 

It is pretty cool! 

street at night with lights

Primrose on the Quay

This is my favourite spot for breakfast in Derry. This family-run bistro serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner. As well as afternoon tea, cocktails, and local beers.

There are also loads of fresh home-baked goods and desserts, mmm!

Quay West is a vibrant gastro-pub. It’s a great place to go for dinner. It is right along the Foyle and you can dine upstairs while looking down at the restaurant below. This means it is perfect for a more intimate romantic meal upstairs, or a social gathering with dinner and drinks on the ground floor. 

The Walled City of Derry really has so much charm and history. Make sure you do not make the mistake of missing it, like so many other tourists. 

stained glass window in church

Things to do nearby include:

Giants Causeway

Carrick-A-Rede

Numerous Game of Thrones shooting Locations

While Derry is a must-visit city in Northern Ireland, I have also compiled a list of the top five counties in Ireland you need to visit , which are perfect for a long weekend.

This guest post was written by the lovely Sarah from The Tales of Tinyboots . Sarah writes about all things outdoorsy in Ireland, particularly Galway!

Visit Northern Ireland

Don’t miss out on the rest of Northern Ireland! Check out more of our NI posts below.

  • 8 Best Game of Thrones Sites in Northern Ireland

13 Fantastic Belfast Tours

  • How to Spend 48 Hours in Belfast + Itinerary

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Volumes & Voyages occasionally hosts posts from guest authors who are experts on their topic.

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The Irish Road Trip

23 Best Things To Do In Derry City And Beyond

By Author Keith O'Hara

Posted on Last updated: December 29, 2023

23 Best Things To Do In Derry City And Beyond

There are plenty of things to do in Derry, once you give it a chance.

However, many people exploring this corner of Ireland often pass it by.

County Derry is home to countless historical sites, walks and a glorious stretch of coastline.

In the guide below, you’ll discover what to do in Derry City, first, before seeing the wider county’s main attractions.

Table of Contents

The best things to do in Derry City

Derry City

Photos via Shutterstock

We’re going to tackle the various things to do in Derry City first. The city is home to an absolute wealth of things to do and places to see.

There are also some great spots for food that we’ll be recommending you nip into.

1. Derry City Walls

Derry City Walls

Derry is officially the only completely walled city in Ireland and it’s one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe.

The walls, which were built between 1613-1618, were used to defend the city against early 17th century settlers.

Still beautifully intact, they now form a walkway around Derry’s inner city and offer a unique promenade to check out the layout of the original town.

Standing at an impressive 19-20 feet high, the mile-long oval comes complete with watchtowers, battlements, gates, bastions, and big aul cannons.

2. Bloody Sunday and Bogside Tour

Derry walking tour

Photos via Google Maps

If you’re wondering what to do in Derry that’ll give you a good insight into the city’s past, this tour (affiliate link) is worth considering.

Over the course of 1.5 hours you’ll learn about what happened on Bloody Sunday . You’ll also be taken to Derry’s most prominent murals in the Bogside area.

You’ll be given an insight into the partition of Ireland , the seperation of the 6 counties of Northern Ireland and plenty more.

3. The Peace Bridge 

Peace Bridge

The now-iconic Peace Bridge is one of the more popular places to visit in Derry. It opened in 2011 and has won a clatter of awards since.

The bridge connects the old army Barracks in Ebrington to the city centre and was intended to end a 400-year-old physical and political gap by bringing the largely unionist east side of Derry closer to the largely nationalist west.

You can take a wander across it and get a good eyeful of both sides of the city’s ‘skyline’ or you can admire it from afar from either side of the river.

4. The Museum of Free Derry

Museum of Free Derry

Photo left courtesy of Visit Derry. Others via Museum of Free Derry on FB

If you’re looking for places to visit in Derry that’ll educate and enlighten, then this should tickle your fancy.

The Museum of Free Derry opened back in 2007. It exists to tell the turbulent story of what happened in Derry from 1968 to 1972.

The story is told from the point of view of the people that were most involved in and affected by the events that took place.

For those of you with little to no familiarity with the city’s past, you’re in for an enlightening experience.

This is one of the more popular things to do in Derry when it rains for good reason!

5. The Guildhall

Guildhall

The Guildhall tends to conquer many guides on what to do in Derry, and it’s not hard to see why.

This beautiful neo-gothic style building was built in 1887 and can be found just outside the city walls, near the Peace Bridge.

In 2013, a £9.5m restoration was completed which introduced a new multifaceted tourism experience to the building.

Those that visit the Guildhall can expect:

  • An interactive Tourist Information Point
  • A new dedicated exhibition exploring how the Plantation shaped our history
  • Cultural spaces
  • A cafe area
  • Interpretation panels that bring the buildings features to life

6. The Derry Girls mural

Derry Girls mural

Derry Girls is one of the most popular Irish shows to hit our screens in years.

In a nutshell, it’s a show set in Derry during the Troubles in the 1990s that follows a group of friends (4 girls and one English lad) as they get themselves into all kinds of mad situations.

The mural is painted on one of the walls of Badger’s Bar in Derry. The owner was contacted by the creators of the show and asked whether they could use the wall at the back of the pub.

The mural depicts the main cast members and was masterfully created by UV Arts, a group that uses street art as a tool for social change.

7. Trad music at Peadar’s

Peadar O'Donnell's

Photos courtesy of Tourism Northern Ireland

Peadar O’Donnell’s is arguably one of the best pubs in Ireland . It’s my favourite in Derry (and probably in Northern Ireland) for good reason.

This is, in my opinion, what every great Irish pub should strive to be like – it has a beautifully maintained old-school interior, it holds regular trad sessions and they do a solid pint of Guinness.

If you’re in the city and you’re looking to chill after a busy day exploring, you won’t go wrong here.

8. St. Columb’s Cathedral

St. Columb's Cathedral

St. Columb’s Cathedral is one of Derry’s oldest buildings.

This beautiful cathedral dominates the city’s skyline from many an angle and dates back to 1633.

Standing at an impressive 221 feet, St. Columb’s current tower and main building are that of the original Cathedral.

The spire was added later in 1821. Interestingly enough, the building is constructed from the same stone as the city’s walls and boasts an ample number of artefacts for you to check out during your visit.

9. Tower Museum

It’s from the top of the Tower Museum that you’ll get access to the only open-air viewing facility in Derry City.

Translation: there’s a pretty damn good view from the top of this place.

There are also some excellent exhibitions inside:

  • The Story of Derry : This exhibition takes visitors through the dramatic history of the city, from the earliest prehistory to the present.
  • An Armada Shipwreck : The second exhibition tells the story of one of the largest ships in the Spanish Armada, ‘La Trinidad Valencera’. This ship sank off the Donegal Coast in 1588 and was only discovered by divers from the City of Derry Sub-Aqua Club in 1971.

What to do in Derry County

Mussenden Temple

The next section of our guide looks at what to do in Derry across the wider county.

Derry’s coastline in particular often gets missed. You’ll discover why it’s well worth exploring below.

1. Benone Strand

Benone Strand

Benone Strand in Limavady is a peach of a beach. Here you’ll have a massive 7 miles of golden beach to saunter along while soaking up a mixture of interesting sights.

On a clear day, you’ll see everywhere from Lough Foyle and Benevenagh to he mighty Mussenden Temple.

It’s around a 50-minute spin from Derry City and it’s the perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle for a while.

2. The Benevenagh hike

Binevenagh

The Binevenagh hike is one of my favourite things to do in Northern Ireland . This is a tough trail that can take 4.5 – 5 hours to complete, but it’s well worth it.

The trail begins near Limavady, around a 45-minute drive from the city, and there are several start points, depending on which direction you come from.

This is a relatively strenuous hike but, when the weather’s clear, you’ll be treated to glorious views of Lough Foyle and the surrounding countryside.

If you’re looking for active things to do in Derry, this is well worth tackling!

3. Ness Country park

One of the more unique things to do in Derry is to head to Ness Country Park in Killaloo, a short 25-minute spin from the city.

This is one of those places to visit in Derry that people tend to miss. You’ll find Ness Country Park in the wooded Glen of the Burntollet River, south-east of Derry.

This park boasts 55 hectares of woodland, open parkland, and riverside walks. Oh, and the biggest waterfall in Ulster.

4. Mussenden Temple

The Mussenden Temple is one of those places that looks like it’s been whipped from a movie.

Located in the stunning surroundings of Downhill Demesne in Derry, the temple is perched dramatically on a 120-foot high cliff overlooking the ocean.

Bizarrely enough, the temple was originally built to act as a summer library for those that owned the estate that temple sits within.

It was constructed in 1785 and its architecture was inspired by the Temple of Vesta in Tivoli, near Rome.

Make sure this is on your list of places to see in Derry during your visit.

5. Portstewart Strand

Portstewart Strand

Nestled between the town of Portstewart and the River Bann lies the golden sands of Portstewart Strand.

It’s around a 50-minute drive from the city and it’s a good stop-off for those of you doing the Causeway Coastal Route .

Arguably one of the best beaches in Northern Ireland, Portstewart Strand is the perfect spot for a long ramble without any inclines.

It’s also one of the few beaches that you can still drive onto.

6. Seamus Heaney HomePlace

Seamus Heaney HomePlace

Photos via Ireland’s Content Pool

Now, it’s time for a bit of culture. A visit to the Seamus Heaney HomePlace in Bellaghy (50-minute drive from the city) will take you on a journey through the life and literature of Seamus Heaney, the renowned poet and Nobel Laureate.

You’ll find everything from personal stories and artefacts to dozens of family photographs and video recordings over a packed two floors.

If you’re in search of things to do in Derry when it’s raining, then this indoor attraction is the perfect spot to spend an afternoon.

7. Mountsandel Wood

Mountsandel wood

Photos by Gareth Wray © Tourism Ireland

Our next stop is very interesting altogether. I’d never heard of Mountsandel Wood up until recently.

Which is crazy as it’s here that the earliest known settlement of man in Ireland was based between 7600 and 7900BC.

Flint tools were found on the grounds of Mountsandel, which indicates that Stone Age hunters camped here and fished for salmon in the nearby weir (a low dam built across a river).

You can head off on a forest walk here that’ll take you around this historic little chunk of Derry.

8. Roe Valley Country Park

Roe Valley Country Park

This tranquil park offers stunning riverside views and woodland walks to those that chisel out some time in their itinerary to visit.

The river in Roe Valley Country Park plunges through stunning gorges and its banks are clothed in mature lush woodland.

Grab a cup of coffee in Ritters Tea Room (located on the left bank upriver of the Dogleap Centre) and head off for a stroll.

Fancy learning about the industrial and natural heritage of the area? Nip into the museum on-site.

Things to do near Derry City

Dunluce Castle

Now that we have the various things to do in Derry out of the way, it’s time to explore some of the best things to do near Derry.

And there’s some stiff competition! Derry is close to  endless  things to see and do, as you’ll discover below!

1. Grianan of Aileach (20-minute drive)

Grianan of Aileach

Grianan of Aileach in Donegal is a hillfort that sits right at the beginning of the glorious Inishowen Peninsula.

Now, although it sits on top of a mountain (Greenan Mountain) you can drive very close to the top and it’s a short walk from there.

On a clear day you’ll be treated to magnificent views of the surrounding countryside and peninsulas. 

2. Inishowen Peninsula (25-minute drive)

Mamore Gap 

The Inishowen Peninsula is arguably one of Ireland’s finest. If you follow the Inishowen 100 Drive, you’ll be taken to its best bits.

Some of the highlights along the route include Malin Head , Mamore Gap and some of the best beaches in Ireland .

3. The Causeway Coast (1-hour drive)

Giants Causeway

The Causeway Coastal Route is a great way to spend a day (although 2 days would be ideal, if you have the time!).

Over the course of this spin, you’ll see the likes of:

  • Dunluce Castle
  • Giant’s Causeway
  • Old Bushmills Distillery
  • Carrick-a-rede Rope Bridge

4. Glenveagh National Park (55-minute drive)

Glenveagh Castle

A visit to Glenveagh National Park is another of the more popular things to do near Derry.

You can rent a bike and peddle around it, saunter along one of its many trails or take a tour of Glenveagh Castle.

What places to visit in Derry have we missed?

I’ve no doubt that we’ve unintentionally left out some brilliant things to do in Derry from the guide above.

If you have a place that you’d like to recommend, let me know in the comments below and I’ll check it out!

FAQs about things to see in Derry

We’ve had a lot of questions over the years asking about everything from ‘What to do in Derry when it rains?’ to ‘Where’s best for a stroll?’.

In the section below, we’ve popped in the most FAQs that we’ve received. If you have a question that we haven’t tackled, ask away in the comments section below.

What are the best things to do in Derry?

In our opinion, it’s hard to beat Ness Country park, the Benevenagh hike, Benone Strand, Tower Museum and Derry City Walls.

What is there to do in Derry City?

There’s endless things to do in Derry City, from the mural tours and the City Walls to the Guildhall, St. Columb’s Cathedral, the Walled City Brewery and much more.

travel advice derry

Keith O’Hara has lived in Ireland for 34 years and has spent most of the last 10 years creating what is now The Irish Road Trip guide. Over the years, the website has published thousands of meticulously researched Ireland travel guides, welcoming 30 million+ visitors along the way. In 2022, the Irish Road Trip team published the world’s largest collection of Irish Road Trip itineraries. Keith lives in Dublin with his dog Toby and finds writing in the 3rd person minus craic altogether.

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Vincent Harkin

Tuesday 29th of August 2023

Brilliant guide to the county, another thing worth mentioning is the Sperrin mountains and the Carntogher hike! 👍🏻

Friday 8th of May 2020

Keith, Absolutely wonderful guides of Ireland.

I have returned to Ireland after time in Australia,

I am looking forward to when it lifts so i can explore some of your hidden gems!!

Website is fantastic!!!

Keith O'Hara

Saturday 9th of May 2020

Cheers Kiera! Appreciate you taking the time to comment! I'm sure coming back home now must be a bit strange given everything that's going on! mind yourself!

Things to do in Derry – Londonderry, Northern Ireland

Written By: The Planet D

Northern Ireland

Updated On: June 25, 2023

Looking for things to do in Derry? We have you covered. We have visited the city of Derry twice before, and finally had the chance to really dig into exploring Londonderry on our latest trip to Northern Ireland this past summer.

Located in County Derry, Londonderry always seemed to be a quick stopover on our Irish road trip as we were on our way to explore places like the Causeway Coastal route or Belfast . But after a stay this past summer we realized that we never gave this underrated Irish city the time that it deserved.

Table of Contents

Top Things to do in Derry

Officially, the city of Derry is named Londonderry. Derry Londonderry is often used to cover all bases. If you are British you most likely will use the official name of Londonderry. However,

After a beautiful day’s drive from Belfast, we arrived at our hotel The Hotel Maldran Derry which is located directly beside the walled city.

This was one of our favorite places we stayed in all of Ireland with a perfect view of the Peace Bridge and River Foyle. We were within walking distance to all the main attractions in the city of Derry, so after parking our car, we set out on foot to explore Derry.

The London Derry Attraction Pass is an excellent pass to purchase in advance of visiting Derry. It offers access to 10 derry attractions letting you see the best the city of Derry has to offer. The pass includes entrance to the Saint Columba Heritage Centre, Siege Museum, St Augustine’s Church, St Columb’s Cathedral, St Eugene’s Cathedral, The Guildhall, The Museum of Free Derry, and the Tower Museum plus a Bogside History Tour, or a Martin McCrossan City Walking Tour. See more details here .

1. Walk The Derry Walls

The City Walls date back to 1613 and surround the Old City. A walk along the Walls of Derry is a great way to start your stay in Derry as it offers views of the entire city from all angles. It is an easy walk around the walls and they are not to be missed. The still intact City Walls are one of the finest examples of Walled Cities in all of Europe and Derry is the only completely walled city in Ireland. https://youtu.be/08SMJ1ftBKQ

It is 1.5 km walk all around the entire inner city with seven gates in total. Take a stroll to see the cannons and beautiful lookout points. The Walls of Derry have never been breached which is astounding with all of the troubles they have seen. They were regularly under siege from 1649 – 1689, and during the troubles, they were used as a divider in the city. A great place to start you walk on the Derry Walls is at Butcher’s Gate, 6 Magazine Street Upper, Londonderry, Ireland.

This Highly Rated Private Walled City Tour takes you on a guided tour dating back six thousand years through Derry’s past. The 1.4 km walk goes along the walls where you’ll hear stories of how the walled city came to be, why the name Londonderry is still contested and you’ll learn about the Siege of Derry, The Apprentice Boys and more.

2. Peace Bridge

We had a beautiful view of the Peace Bridge spanning the River Foyle from our hotel room and couldn’t wait to get down to the waterfront to go for a stroll. Opened in 2011, the Peace Bridge is a pedestrian link between the city centre to the old army barracks at Ebrington Square on the Waterside. You can cycle across the Peace Bridge as well and during sunset, it is a bustling place with locals walking home.

On either side of the river, there is a lovely River Walk to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city and it is just a short walk to the Manor House at St Columb’s Park from the Peace Bridge.

3. Bogside Murals

The People’s Gallery in Bogside is definitely one of the top things to do in Derry. A walk through the Bogside area takes you on a visual journey recounting the conflicts and injustices that took place during the troubles. Today, there are also murals of social injustices around the world.

Located by Free Derry Corner outside the walled city, the Bogside artists consist of brothers Thomas and William Kelly and their friend Kevin Hanson who spent a decade painting murals on walls of buildings in the Bogside area. The murals depict important moments from the civil unrest that took place across six counties in Northern Ireland for more than 30 years.

They not only pay tribute to the people of Derry City but other human rights activists like Nelson Mandella, Martin Luther King Jr, and Mother Theresa. It is a sobering display of just how difficult the times were with paintings depicting the horrors of war. The Derry Murals Tour gives a good overview on a guided tour sharing what the murals are about and the history of Derry.

4. Bloody Sunday Monument

One of the most significant events of the time was Bloody Sunday which took place on January 30, 1972, when British paratroopers opened fire on protesters. 14 civilians were killed that day by British Soldiers and more were injured. There is a monument dedicated to those who died where you can pay your respects.

One of the most significant murals depicts a young schoolgirl who was killed on that day. Anette McGavigan was only 14 years old when she was gunned down. She was still in her school uniform and the objects that she was collecting for a school project are at her feet. Her killing marked the 100th civilian death in The Troubles.

We highly recommend taking a Bloody Sunday Bogside Tour to learn of the modern history of Derry. There has been a lot of unrest and conflict from the separation of Ireland to the Battle of the Bogside, The Bloody Sunday massacre and the Civil Rights period. A tour gives insight to Derry’s history and how things are today.

5. Free Derry Corner

As you enter the Bogside Area, the first thing you will see is the mural stating, you are now entering Free Derry. This is Free Derry Corner. From 1969 to 1972, this area was a self-declared autonomous region that acted outside the government. It was the location for the Battle of Bogside and Bloody Sunday. While the troubles have settled, the walls and murals remain.

As you walk along Lecky Road you’ll come across many monuments depicting Derry’s turbulent history. There are photographs of activists that were shot showing how they had no way to survive and how they were left by the police to suffer with their wounds until their death. There is a monument dedicated to the hunger strike victims who died in jail. The Irish Republican Prisoners were protesting the fact that the British government struck down the provisionary status that they were not prisoners of war but criminals.

6. Hunger Strike Monument

One hunger striker was elected during his 66 days. Bobby Sands eventually died of starvation along with nine other protestors. To read the stories and see the photos from these times is truly astounding. We had heard very little about it in Canada at the time but to visit the memorials in Derry puts faces to those who suffered. Their stories are told and they will be remembered. I

We found that we could spend hours at the memorials and murals of Derry. As we read each memorial, we reflected on the times we are living in today and see that the human race has this uncontrollable pattern of repeating its cycle of hate and violence. I only hope that one day we will find our way.

7. Free Derry Museum

Once you have seen the murals of Bogside, The Free Derry Museum is a good place to make your way to next. The Museum opened in 2007 and focuses on the civil rights era of the 1960s and the Free Derry troubles of the 1970s. Located in the area where the  Battle of the Bogside, Internment, Bloody Sunday, and Operation Motorman took place. The Free Derry museum tells the story from the point of view of those who were there and lived through troubling times. Entry to the Free Derry Museum is included in a Londonderry Attraction Pass

8. Guildhall

Make sure to go inside Guildhall. We nearly didn’t as there was a private event the day we arrived. Luckily, we went back the next day and went upstairs as it is beautiful. But not only that, upstairs on the second floor is where the Bloody Sunday hearings took place.

I expected to walk through the hall and snap a few photographs of its rooms but it was while there that I learned this was where testimony was heard for four years from 2000 – 2004. I watched the videos of the hearings that took place so many years later. While the military was found to be at fault, nobody has been officially held accountable and to this day, the victim’s families have not seen justice.

Guildhall stands on Guildhall Square which is a lovely square in just outside the walled city. There is a lovely view looking down from the Derry Walls,

9. Siege Museum

We may know a lot about the IRA troubles between the Catholics and Protestants in Derry, but this city has had a long history of war and violence. The Siege Museum tells the story of the Siege of Derry in 1689. The siege lasted 105 days but they held their ground against the Jacobites who supported the deposed King James II. Entrance to the Siege Museum is included with your Londonderry Attraction Pass

10. Derry Girls Filming Locations

Derry Girls is a popular TV show about growing up in Derry in the 1990s which were the final years of The Troubles. It has gotten more attention since the premier of Bridgerton (at least that’s how it caught our eye) as it stars Nicola Coughlan who plays Penelope Featherington.

While most of the show is filmed in Belfast, exterior scenes are shot in Derry and of course, all of the locations referenced are located in Derry. You can take a walking tour of Derry to see such places like Bishop’s Gate, Long Tower Church, and Dennis Wee Shop. Don’t miss the Derry Girls Mural, they even have their own mural in Derry city.

The Derry Girls Tour to some of the show’s most iconic filming locations, such as Bishop’s Gate, Long Tower Church, Dennis Wee Shop, and the Derry Girls mural located on the side of Badger’s Bar.

11. Tower Museum

Located within the Derry City Walls, the Tower Museum cannot be missed. Meaning, that you literally can’t miss it. The museum has two permanent exhibits, The Story of Derry and An Armada Shipwreck – La Trinidad Valencera. The Spanish ship sank off the Donegal Coast in 1588.

The Tower Museum also has the only open-air viewing platform in the city located on the fifth floor. Entry to the Tower Museum is included in the Londonderry Attractions Pass

12. St. Columb’s Cathedral

No tour of an Irish city would be complete without mentioning its cathedrals. We sauntered into the grounds of St Columb’s Cathedral and when inside found a pleasant surprise. Volunteers welcomed us with open arms and told us the story of the cathedral pointing out interesting pieces within. It was the friendliest cathedral we’ve ever stepped foot in.

It is a must-see as it was the first protestant church built in Britain or Ireland following the Reformation. It is one of Derry’s oldest buildings dating back to 1633 which is saying a lot as it survived the Siege of Derry and The Troubles.

13. St Eugene’s Cathedral

We didn’t go inside St Eugene’s Cathedral, but we saw it at every turn from the city walls. It is a Roman Catholic cathedral dating back to 1873.

14. Craft Village

We had the hardest time finding the Craft Village and it was located just down the street from our hotel. But it is so well hidden. We finally had to ask someone where to sneak into the unassuming alleyway but once inside we were so glad we searched for it. When we left from the other side, we noticed it wasn’t hidden at all we just entered from the back.

Anyway, this lovely alley is filled with gift and craft shops leading to Village Square in Derry city centre. The village square is covered and a great place to pull up a seat and have a pint. There is an unmissable thatched cottage in the village that is very picturesque and perfect for your Instagram moments.

15. St Columb’s Park

If you are looking for a little greenspace or a spot to have a picnic, St Columb’s Park is located just across the Peace Bridge from the Old City on the right bank of the River Foyle. You can cycle or walk to it to see st Columb’s Park House, an 18th-century manor house and a walled garden. There’s a cafe, pathways, and even a running track.

Ness Country Park

Another tranquil park just outside of Derry Londonderry is Ness Country Park. Ness Country Park consists of 55 hectares of parkland where you can do some riverside walks and a hike to a waterfall.

16. Browns in Town

We ate at Browns in Town and it had a great ambiance. It is a trendy casual restaurant located in the heart of Derry. Prices are reasonable and besides being a wine bar, it has fantastic cocktails and serves local craft beer.

17. Walled City Brewery

If you are looking for something unique to do in Derry, make your way to the Walled City Brewery. The Walled City Brewery doesn’t offer tours, but you can enjoy an interactive experience where you will learn about the 9000 year olf history of brewing. All while tasting 10 craft beers that are paired with snacks. You can book tours and tastings on their website.

When looking for Derry Nightlife, make your way to Waterloo Street and go pub hopping. It runs along the Derry walls. We strolled from our hotel at Butchers Gate and followed the sound of live music down to the river.

18. Europe’s Biggest Halloween Celebration

Ireland is where Halloween originated and when visiting Londonderry Ireland during Halloween, you can count on the biggest Halloween celebration in Europe. When it originated, Halloween was not the celebration it is now. Instead it was a day that the ancient celts dressed up in animal skins to ward off evil spirits and avoid being taken away.

In late October get a chance to experience the country’s largest all hallow’s eve festival in Derry. The Londonderry Banks of the Foyle Halloween Carnival offers a spooktacular four-day celebration during the last week of October every year. It features parades, bonfires, and of course, people of all ages dressed as their favorite ghosts, ghouls, and monsters. Dublin still celebrates Samhain. Places to Visit For Halloween – Around the World

Where to Stay in Derry

We stayed at the Maldron Hotel right in the city centre. It had beautiful views of the River Foyle and is located right next to the Butchers Gate by the Derry City Walls. There is a fitness center with sauna and there is parking on site. For parking, make sure to arrive early as it is available on a first come first serve basis. There is a parking lot nearby if the hotel lot is full.

  • Address Butcher St, Londonderry BT48 6HL, UK

How to Get to Derry

Derry Londonderry is located in County Derry and is just a three-hour drive from Dublin and just under two hours from Belfast.

When you visit Derry, chances are you will come touring from Dublin or Belfast on an Irish Road Trip so you will probably enter county Londonderry by car. Derry City does have an airport, The Derry Ireland Airport. Flights arrive from the UK but we drove from Belfast where we rented a car. We have also driven to Derry from Dublin and it is also a very nice scenic drive.

Day Trips from Derry

Derry-coleraine railway.

The Derry Colerain train journey is often touted as one of the most beautiful train journeys in the world. The Derry Colerain Railway travels between Derry~Londonderry and Coleraine passing long sandy beaches, mountains, and seacliffs. A highlight is most certainly the long sandy beach of Benone Strand. We actually crossed under the train tracks to walk along this beach which is considered one of Ireland’s most beautiful and unspoiled beaches.

The journey isn’t long, but during it, you’ll pass through two of Ireland’s longest tunnels and it ends at Colerain where you can carry on your journey through the Causeway Coast.

Causeway Coast

The Causeway Coast is a spectacular scenic drive with plenty of stops including the Giant’s Causeway, several Game of Thrones Filming Locations, The Dark Hedges, Bushmills Distillery and The Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. This is much more than a day trip and even though it can all be driving in one day, we suggest at least 4 days to explore the Causeway Coast. It can be done on a bus tour if you aren’t ready to drive on the other side of the road.

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne

Overlooking Benone Strand is Mussenden Temple. The temple is located on the cliffs of Castlerock also overlooking Downhill Strand. It is operated by The National Trust and you can tour its grounds including the manor house. Downhill House was once a grand Italian-inspired villa built by the Earl Bishop of Derry. It was devastated by fire in the 1800s but there are still remnants of its grandeur.

How to Get Derry

To get to Londonderry (also known as Derry City), you have several transportation options depending on your starting point. Londonderry is located in Northern Ireland and is well-connected to the rest of the United Kingdom and Ireland. Here are the most common ways to reach Londonderry.

By Air: The nearest airport to Londonderry is the City of Derry Airport (LDY). It is a small regional airport with limited flight options. If you can find a suitable flight, you can fly directly to City of Derry Airport from select cities in the UK or Ireland. From the airport, you can take a taxi or a bus to reach the city center. Alternatively, you can fly into Belfast International Airport (BFS) or George Best Belfast City Airport (BHD) in Belfast, Northern Ireland. From there, you can take a bus or a train to Londonderry. The journey takes approximately two hours by road.

By Train: Londonderry is well-connected to the rail network in Northern Ireland. You can take a train from various locations in Northern Ireland, including Belfast, Coleraine, and Portrush, to Londonderry. The train journey offers scenic views of the countryside. The train station in Londonderry is called “Londonderry Waterside Station.”

By Bus: Several bus companies operate services to Londonderry from various cities in the UK and Ireland. You can check with providers like Translink or Bus Éireann for bus schedules and routes. The main bus station in Londonderry is located at Foyle Street.

By Car: If you prefer driving, you can reach Londonderry by car. The city is accessible via the A6 road from Belfast or the A5 road from Dublin. The journey time will depend on your starting point and traffic conditions.

It’s worth noting that there are different names for the city depending on the community. The Catholic and nationalist community generally refers to it as Derry, while the Protestant and unionist community typically uses the name Londonderry. Both names are commonly used, but you may notice a preference depending on the context.

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Belfast, Derry and Donegal

Ireland, United Kingdom

Fully Guided

  • Spend 2 nights in Belfast & 2 nights in Letterkenny for easy access to all the must-see spots.
  • See the highlights of Belfast on a panoramic coach tour.
  • Experience the spectacular Antrim Coast on a full day guided excursion, including a visit to Giants Causeway.
  • Learn more about Derry with a guided walking tour along its historic city walls.  
  • Discover Donegal’s Wild Atlantic way & visit Glenveagh Castle, Gardens and National Park. 
  • 2 evening meals at your hotel are also included.
  • Excursions carefully crafted to uncover wonderful places - less crowded and expertly guided.

Book Your Trip From € 1178 pp

Book your trip from € 879 pp, from € 1178pp from € 879pp, add to wishlist, remove from wishlist, view hotels, your guided group holiday to belfast, derry & donegal.

Let’s see more of Ulster and rediscover our love for the island of Ireland. Before reaching Belfast, we’ll stop in the world-renowned Mount Stewart House and Gardens in County Down. On our coach tour of Belfast, we’ll see the city centre’s top sights, including the Albert Memorial Clock Tower, Opera House, City Hall and The Crown Bar. On our Antrim Coast day trip we’ll see Northern Ireland’s most iconic natural landmark, the Giants Causeway. Enroute to Donegal, we’ll visit the city known as Derry-Londonderry, walk along its famous city wall and learn more about its history . From our base in Letterkenny, we’ll see the best of Donegal, such as the Rathmullan and Sheephaven Bay on the Wild Atlantic Way. We’ll also enjoy a guided tour of Glenveagh Castle and explore its gardens and national park. So join us on this guided Irish holiday and discover the highlights of Ulster. 

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Trip Itinerary

Moderate

Activity Level: Moderate

Travel to belfast, visit mount stewart house and gardens.

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Let’s see more of this beautiful island and discover Northern Ireland and Donegal! Travel to Dublin independently. This morning, meet with our expert guide in Dublin city centre, for our four-night holiday to Belfast, Derry and Donegal.

Details of pick up point in Dublin and final timing will be advised closer to departure date. Estimated start time is 09:30am.

Travelling to Belfast by coach, we will stop in Newtownards and visit the magnificent Mount Stewart House and Gardens! Let’s take in in the beauty of this majestic site which dates back to the 18th century, viewing many rare and unusual plants within its splendid gardens before continuing to Belfast.

Experience a Belfast Panoramic tour

travel advice derry

On arrival, we take in the highlights of Belfast on a panoramic tour passing the city’s famous sites. We drive past the Albert Memorial Clock Tower, one of Belfast’s best-known landmarks and Ireland’s answer to the Leaning Tower of Pisa, plus the Grand Opera House, City Hall, The Crown Bar and the Botanic Gardens.

At Leisure & Dinner

travel advice derry

Check-in at your hotel and take the rest of the afternoon to relax and become familiar with your surroundings. Your guide will be happy to tell you of places of interest nearby.

Tonight, join us for a welcome dinner at your hotel.

Antrim Coast

Guided excursion to antrim coast and giants causeway.

travel advice derry

After breakfast, we depart for a full-day guided excursion to the beautiful and rugged Antrim Coast. Our first stop is at our favourite giant Finn McCool’s Giants Causeway! We explore the new visitor centre, with various interactive exhibits and a short video presentation before visiting the site.

Good sturdy shoes are recommended for the walk down the hill to the Giants Causeway.

Experience Dunluce Castle and Dark Hedges

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We uncover more of Northern Ireland’s beauty by making a stop at a viewpoint (weather permitting) to see the famous Carrick-A-Rede Rope Bridge that was first erected by salmon fishermen in the 1700s, crossing the Atlantic Ocean to a fisherman’s cottage!

Next, we stop at Dunluce Castle. Featured in the HBO television series "Game of Thrones", this picturesque and scenic ruin of a castle is set on sheer cliffs, with the ocean rushing below. Even when the weather is not clear and the sea fog rolls in, the imposing castle creates a charming and mysterious atmosphere.

Next, we visit another location from the Game of Thrones - the Dark Hedges! We take a stroll down the enchanting avenue of beech trees between Armoy and Stranocum in County Antrim, now one of Northern Ireland’s most iconic and must-have, hot Instagram shots! A lovely finish to the day before heading back to our hotel.

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The rest of the evening is at leisure to enjoy our surroundings. Take a stroll up to the Cathedral quarter, admire the colourful buildings along the way to St Eunan's Cathedral, or spend some time shopping.  Our guide will be happy to make some suggestions for local entertainment options.

Derry & Letterkenny

Guided walking tour of derry.

travel advice derry

This morning, we enjoy a leisurely breakfast at our hotel and some free time to explore Belfast, before departing for Letterkenny in County Donegal. En-route, we’ll visit Derry and enjoy a walking tour of the city walls while taking in some of the highlights, with some free time for lunch before continuing to our hotel.

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After checking in at your hotel in the Letterkenny area, take time to enjoy some moments at leisure. The rest of your evening is free to explore independently.

Guided Excursion to Rathmullen and Sheephaven Bay

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This morning we depart on our guided excursion through one of the most beautiful parts of Ireland’s northwest region. Our journey will take us along narrow country roads allowing us to take in the awe-inspiring beauty of northern County Donegal, stopping in the small seaside village of Rathmullan, then continuing on to Sheephaven Bay for a photo opportunity.

Visit Glenveagh Castle, Gardens and National Park

travel advice derry

We’ll uncover more beautiful scenery during a guided visit to Glenveagh Castle, Gardens and National Park. This spectacular location boasts a Scottish-style castle within the estate, surrounded by one of the finest gardens in Ireland! We learn more about this fascinating place at the visitor centre with its exhibitions and an audio-visual show. A shuttle minibus will take us to the castle area and gardens. We depart back to our hotel for some well-deserved relaxation time.

Farewell Dinner

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Join your fellow travellers tonight for a farewell dinner at your hotel, with the rest of the evening free to relax and reflect on your beautiful and scenic journey over the past four days.

Return to Dublin

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After breakfast and check out from our hotel, it is time to say "Slán Abhaile" to County Donegal as we depart for Dublin. We'll arrive back into Dublin in the afternoon (estimated around 2pm, depending on traffic) and say goodbye to your new friends, with fond memories of your visit to Belfast, Derry and Donegal.

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Holiday Inn Belfast City Centre Hotel

Belfast   Northern Ireland

Holiday Inn Belfast City Centre Hotel

Holiday Inn Belfast City Centre is the perfect base for exploring beautiful Northern Ireland, as well as Belfast itself with its exciting array of restaurants, shops and historic attractions.  Combin…

Dillons Hotel

Letterkenny   Ireland

Dillons Hotel

The family-run Dillons Hotel offers its guests a warm welcome in Letterkenny’s Cathedral Quarter.  With a host of amenities within walking distance, it is ideally placed for exploring the bustling to…

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14 Mar 2024

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  • Derry Christmas

All the traffic and travel advice ahead of Sunday's Derry Christmas Lights switch on

All the traffic and travel advice ahead of Sunday's Derry Christmas Lights switch on

Staff Reporter

24 Nov 2022 1:29 PM

[email protected]

travel advice derry

Members of the public attending the Magical Winterland Procession around Derry City Centre for the switching on of the Christmas lights on Sunday November 27th are asked to familiarise themselves with the traffic and travel advice for the event.

Sunday’s parade will start at 6pm at Bishop Street and will pass through The Diamond, Ferryquay Street, Orchard Street, Foyle Street, Guildhall Square and Custom House Street.

While there are no plans to close any roads during the switch on, Council will have contingencies in place to restrict traffic movement, if necessary, for public safety and to accommodate the parade.

The streets that are most likely to be impacted during the event are Bishops Street, The Diamond, Ferrquay Street. Orchard Street, Foyle Street, Guildhall Square, Customhouse Street.

Those attending are urged to line the route to get a view of Santa and the parade rather than congregating in Guildhall Square where there will be limited viewing as the parade passes.

The procession is expected to be completed at around 6.40pm.

We will seek to minimise any impacts on local businesses, but it is advisable to be prepared for the possibility of some disruption.

Any last minute communications will be issued via Council’s social media channels in advance of the event.

Drivers are reminded that normal on street parking restrictions will be in place and that they should avoid parking anywhere where they may be blocking entrances to residences or businesses or where they may be obstructing emergency access routes.

Existing car parking areas that will be available on the city side include: Foyleside Shopping Centre Car Park East, Foyleside West, Quayside Shopping Centre, Foyle Road, Magee Campus (Lawrence Hill), Strand Road, Victoria Market, Society Street, Bishop Street, Carlisle Road, William Street.

Waterside Car Parks are Alfred Street, Bond’s Hill, Distillery Brae, Simpsons Brae, Spencer Road and Waterside Health Centre.

Where possible, the public are strongly advised to use the public transport system or to consider walking to the events.

Details of all buses can be found by visiting www.translink.co.uk/Routes- and-Timetables.

For information on the Christmas activities visit: www.derrystrabane.com/ christmas.

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travel advice derry

travel advice derry

Halloween traffic and travel advice issued by local council as Derry prepares for Europe's biggest Halloween festival

With just days to go until Europe’s biggest Halloween festival begins in Derry, the local council has issued traffic and travel advice to ensure visitors avoid any unnecessary delays or diversions.

Derry City and Strabane council say that with over 100,000 visitors expected to share in the celebrations over the course of the four day festival, running from October 28th – 31 st , a range of measures will be introduced to keep everything running smoothly for everyone.

These include road closures, parking restrictions and some diversions, so it’s best to plan ahead to ensure motorists have easy access to all the events.

Read more: Derry Halloween: Fire hazard warning issued by council over children's costumes

Read more: Derry Halloween 2023 plans revealed as locals urged to be wary of 'zombie invasion'

These arrangements will also ensure the safe delivery of the event, and everyone is being asked to follow the directions of stewards and police.

Motorists are advised to expect some delays and diversions in the city centre during the four nights of the event. From Saturday 28th, Sunday 29th, and Monday October 30th, city centre road closures will operate from 2pm until 10pm in the following areas. All times are approximate, but road closures and diversions will be kept to the minimum length necessary to ensure safety.

Road closures

Bank Place, Union Hall Street, Magazine Street, Magazine Street Upper, Butcher Street, Shipquay Street, Ferryquay Street, Bishop Street within, Palace Street, Pump Street, The Diamond, London Street, Pump Street, Artillery Street, Fountain Street. No City Centre on-street parking with exception of Shipquay Street until 11am.

Car park closures 28 th October – 1 st November:

  • Bishop Street Car Park will close to general parking to accommodate motorhome parking
  • Foyle Street Carpark
  • Ebrington Car Park is currently closed to facilitate the Cullens Amusements and will remain closed until November 7th

Saturday October 28 th , Sunday 29 th and Monday 30th

  • Society Street Car Park
  • Victoria Market Car Park (accessible only Car parking)

Tuesday, October 31st

  • Queens Quay and Strand Road Car Park will be closed on the 31st October.
  • Strand Road Car Park will offer accessible parking only

Car parking availability

Drivers are reminded that normal on street parking restrictions will be in place and people should avoid parking anywhere they may be blocking entrances to residences or businesses or where they may be obstructing emergency access.

Parking is available at a number of locations throughout the city:

Cityside carparks – there will be extended opening hours at Foyleside Shopping Centre Car Park East, Foyleside West and Quayside Shopping Centre, please check online for timings.

Foyle Road, Magee Campus (Lawrence Hill), Carlisle Road and William Street.

Waterside car parks - Oakgrove School, Foyle Arena, Spencer Road and Former Waterside Health Centre Car Parks.

From October 28-30 the Council Car Park on Strand Road will be open to the public.

Fort George Car Park will be open on October 31 only for event car parking.

Victoria Market will be an accessible car park only from 28 th - 30 th October and will operate on a first come, first served basis. The Car Park will operate as usual on October 31 st .

Strand Road Car Park will offer accessible parking only on the 31 st October, also on an first come, first served basis.

Halloween night itself will see the welcome return of the annual Carnival Parade which leaves the Council Car Park at 7pm . The parade is followed by a dazzling drone display at 8.15pm , followed by the Halloween Fireworks Finale at 8.30pm .

Viewing for the drone display, the first to be held in N. Ireland, is best from the Harbour Square Roundabout to Queen’s Quay roundabout . There will be no visibility from the Waterside. The fireworks can be viewed from the Harbour Square Roundabout right down to the Fort George Science Park.

Please note that in the interests of health and safety, the Peace Bridge will be closed from 7pm on Tuesday October 31st in advance of the display , reopening at 8.45pm.

A quiet space will be available in the Guildhall each day from 12noon – 9pm (10pm 31 st ), and parents and carers can also pick up ID Me safety wrist bands at the Guildhall information point.

For anyone with accessibility requirements, a full guide to available support is available here - https://derryhalloween.com/about/accessibility/ .

Translink will run additional services to the city centre throughout the event. For information on Translink bus and rail services to and from the city go to https://www.translink.co.uk/ .

Festival and Events Manager with Derry City and Strabane District Council, Jacqueline Whoriskey, said it was important for people to check out the latest event information online. "We are expecting huge crowds for this year's festivities so I want to appeal to people to prepare in advance so they can get the most from their visit. Regular updates will be posted on the Derry Halloween and Council social media platforms.

"If possible we would advise using public transport to avoid the hassle of parking – we do have lots of public car parking but with the anticipated crowds a space isn't guaranteed. I would recommend downloading our Derry Halloween app – this will give you the lowdown on all that's going on and all the information you need to plan your journey.

"I would appeal to everyone to please follow the guidance of our stewards and the PSNI – they are there to keep the event running smoothly and everyone safe. We are so looking forward to the event this year but we need everyone to play their part and help us deliver a safe and enjoyable celebration."

Derry Halloween is organised by Derry City and Strabane District Council with support from Tourism Northern Ireland, BT and The Executive Office.

You can find all the details about traffic and travel and the full programme on derryhalloween.com .

To get the latest breaking news from Co Derry straight to your inbox, sign up to our free newsletter .

The Mayor of Derry and Strabane, Councillor Patricia Logue, at the launch of Derry Halloween. Included are Dr Victoria McCollum and Dr Conor Heffernan from Ulster University.

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Solo traveling basics: Expert advice for your first trip

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Boarding the plane to head to another country alone is often an emotional experience – there’s the excitement, the anxiety, the anticipation.

It can also be totally nerve-wracking.

When Angie Orth made the bold choice to leave her job and embark on a solo year-long journey around the world in 2011, her friends and family cautioned her about safety concerns. “Everyone was horrified,” the Florida native told USA TODAY. “The fear was all I heard.”

The then New York City-based Orth kicked off her 12-country solo trip in Fiji before making her way to New Zealand, Australia, and Southeast Asia. Then she trekked through Europe, including Greece, Spain and England, and stopped in Turkey and Egypt before ending in Kenya and South Africa.

Stay safe while traveling: Here are 17 CIA tips, advice to think like a spy on vacation

Learn more: Best travel insurance

It wasn’t always smooth traveling. At times, Orth said she survived “by the skin of my teeth.” Orth was in Egypt during the Arab Spring , got unbelievably sick in Thailand, and had a bike accident in Bali. She was also robbed of 400 euros. “I was in Greece for a half an hour and had already been pickpocketed,” she said. 

Still, to Orth, the solo journey was invaluable. “It’s a confidence that I don't think there’s any other way to get that confidence than by solo travel,” she said, referring to the problem-solving that inherently comes with navigating travel on your own. Then there’s also the compassion you gain from meeting and experiencing other cultures. 

Now more than ever, more people are deciding to forgo travel companions and embark on their trips alone. Solo vacation packages searches on Google shot up by more than 200% over the past 90 days as of Feb. 2.

Increased connectivity on our phones makes it easier to feel secure and social media shows more people – especially women – traveling the world alone. 

“Women are not waiting for permission or their 401(k) to mature. If my husband doesn’t want to go, fine. Women are having more confidence,” said Orth, who is also the author of the upcoming book “Flirting with Disaster,” which chronicles her year-long solo trip. 

Here’s everything you need to know about solo travel. 

How to safely travel alone

Safety is always top of mind when traveling, and it’s especially important for solo travelers who have to look out for themselves. 

'It's like your local bestie': This startup helps make solo travel as a woman feel safer

“Isn’t it fun to meet a person in a hostel and say yes, let’s go hiking right now? That’s fun, but it’s risky,” Orth said. “It’s about balancing it out and researching ridiculously.” 

▶ Start your research by heading to the State Department website to see if there are any travel advisories for the destination you’re interested in. These advisories are based on changing conditions and also inform you about the specific region you’re visiting.

For the most direct updates, enroll in the agency’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP), a free service that sends you the most up-to-date information on the destination. It can also help connect you to the nearest U.S. embassy and consulate if traveling and something were to happen.

▶ One thing Orth always searches for is “the destination plus scams” to see what she has to look out for when in that place. Many European cities are notorious for petty theft, like pickpocketing in popular tourist hotspots like the Trevi Fountain or public transportation.  

When doing research, it may feel like an information overload. "There is so much information now, you could read 1,000 reviews and get so many sources of conflicting information," Orth added. "It’s hard to wade through all that and find trusted sources."

▶ To help sift through everything, Orth recommends reaching out to others who have traveled to your ideal destination. She also recommended cleaning out your feed and only following travel content creators who “give you the good and the bad.”

“You don’t want the glossy, glossy, oh, it’s so magical because travel isn’t always so magical,” she said. 

▶ At your destination, you’ll also need at least a basic understanding of the language used there. “Translation plays a big role in safety, just being aware of your surroundings,” said Craig Ewer, Google Communications Manager for Search. 

Besides direct translation between 133 languages, the Google Translate app offers pronunciation help – “such a lifesaver,” according to Rose Yao, Vice President of Product Management at Google. You can also snap a picture of a menu and have it translated in real time. 

The Google app also has a feature called Lens that allows users to search using a picture of something like a sign. “You’d be surprised at what you can Lens: menus, what is that building or what is that statue,” Yao said. You can also capture a screenshot of your social media feed and then search for it on Google to incorporate it into your travel plans.

Staying healthy on your travels

▶ To safeguard yourself and others against preventable illnesses while exploring new places, look up any recommended vaccinations for the countries you plan on visiting. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention website is a good starting point, with in-depth travel health notices and recommended vaccines and medicines posted all in one place. 

The CDC website also offers travel advice on managing non-preventable illnesses, like preventing bug bites to reduce the risk of contracting diseases such as dengue or Zika.

▶ Typically, you’d want to give yourself at least a month before departing on your trip to get everything you need from your doctor. And if you don’t know who to go to, the CDC can help you find a clinic as well. 

Orth recommends having a doctor help you put together a medical kit with you with some necessities and medications, like for food poisoning. “It’s helpful to have some things on hand so you’re not scrambling on a remote island and no one knows what you’re talking about,” she said. 

▶ As you’re making the big purchases for your trip, don’t forget about travel insurance for the unexpected. Orth said she never travels without this layer of protection. Travel insurance not only helped with her medical costs from her bike collision but also replaced her camera, which was smashed in the accident. She also recommends a service called  MedJet , which offers worldwide security crisis and medical transportation assistance for its members.

What are the most popular solo travel destinations?

According to Google, the top-searched destinations for American solo travelers are: 

  • Puerto Rico

Tips for solo travelers

  • The Google app’s generative AI search allows you to “ask really detailed questions like you would ask a friend,” Yao said. “Ask what’s off the beaten path, what’s not crowded. What’s a great time to visit the Louvre that’s not super crowded?” 
  • For your first trip alone, it’s okay to start small and dip your toes in the solo travel pool. “Start in an easier destination, something more familiar where you speak the language or you dont have to fly far away,” Orth said. “A lot of folks see ‘Eat, Pray, Love’ and travel content creators trekking in Borneo for it to count but it doesn’t.” 
  • It won’t always be rainbows and butterflies, despite what you see on social media. Expect decision fatigue from having to make many micro-decisions, like if this taxi driver seems safe. “I think this probably hits women a lot harder than it hits men because we are never not thinking about our safety, and that’s if we’re going to Target in our hometown or hopping on a plane to a remote island,” Orth said. 
  • Make an itinerary for yourself with at least one thing planned everyday, so you don’t feel aimless but still have space for flexibility, said Madison Pietrowski, U.S. brand director at GetYourGuide, a marketplace for travel experiences, where each company listed is thoroughly vetted. It can be as casual as wanting to eat at a certain restaurant for dinner or more intensive like a whole-day tour. (On that note, make sure to read the fine print and are aware of cancellation policies for your excursions.)  

Kathleen Wong is a travel reporter for USA TODAY based in Hawaii. You can reach her at [email protected] .

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How to holiday in the busiest year for travel: Join our event with Simon Calder for tips, advice and deals

The independent ’s travel team will be helping you make the best of your annual leave during an exclusive online event, article bookmarked.

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O bsessed with travel? You are not alone.

In 2024, many of us are hungrily seeking more experiences to make up for adventures lost to Covid and the surreal tangle of travel restrictions that accompanied the virus.

Travel industry leaders report no loss of appetite due to the cost of living crisis. “Our members are seeing huge opportunities and huge growth coming through,” says Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership. “We're certainly seeing numbers virtually back to where they were pre-pandemic.”

And Paul Charles, chief executive of the PC Agency and former communications director for Virgin Atlantic and Eurostar, predicts: “It will be the busiest summer on record, without a doubt.”

In this Virtual Event, The Independent ’s award-winning travel correspondent Simon Calder and global travel editor Annabel Grossman will join deputy travel editor Ben Parker live from our studio, to help you navigate the best summer holiday deals amid this soaring demand and prices in 2024.

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The trio will be on hand with the best tips, tricks and deals for jetting off this summer.

They will also tackle questions on how to best avoid being caught up in any travel chaos, following large-scale disruption at airports last summer, courtesy of air traffic control meltdowns and mass flight cancellations from leading airlines and industrial action.

As ever, no travel questions are off the cards - you can ask the team anything from how to get the best deals on flights and where to find summer sun to what makes a great last-minute deal.

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A 100-year-old influencer shared the secrets to her long life, such as a dark sense of humor and travel

  • 100-year-old Mildred Kirschenbaum has 100,000 followers on Instagram.
  • She advises younger people on how to lead as long a life as possible.
  • The centenarian has published a book of tips on how to live your life to the full.

Insider Today

Neither Mildred Kirschenbaum nor her travel agent could understand why she kept appearing as an " accompanied minor " when they tried to book a flight.

It took a while, but they finally caught on. The airline's computer system couldn't register her birth year as 1923. Instead, it thought she was born in 2023.

Kirschenbaum, who turns 101 in August, told Business Insider that the unusual situation was somewhat typical of life as a centenarian.

"It was the kind of thing that might drive people crazy," she said. "But I always see the funny side."

She said it was "all about attitude" — a mantra she shares as one of the oldest influencers on Instagram, with 100,000 followers.

Now, the grandmother of nine has published a book, " Mildred's Mindset ," outlining her life lessons. Here are three highlights.

Don't stay angry

Kirschenbaum described her late husband, Gerald, as "her best friend," despite them arguing "every day of the week."

But, she said, they drew a line under the acrimony in time for bed.

"We'd fight about something, and the next question might be, 'Do you want salad with your meal later?'" she added. "The door was closed on the argument."

The New York native said your marriage could be in trouble if you stewed on negative thoughts. "If you're angry the first night, you could be thinking of divorce by the second night."

She also said it was important "not to go your grave with regrets." She told BI she'd been a "tough mother" to her daughter, Gayle, and had recently asked for " forgiveness. "

"She accepted," Kirschenbaum said.

Develop a sense of humor

The centenarian said she had a dark — and often self-deprecating — sense of humor that has smoothed her path through life.

She said she called Gayle, who lives in Manhattan, "about 10 times a day" from her home in Florida.

"I told her, 'When I die, bury me with my phone so you can call me.'" she said.

One of her followers recently asked how she stayed fit at 100 . "I exercise my mouth," she responded.

Meanwhile, strangers laugh when she makes a toast at a bar — she enjoys "Meatball Night," especially when there's a " Happy Hour " — and says, "Here's to those who wish me well, and those who don't can go to hell."

Travel the world — even if you have to wear an adult diaper

Kirshenbaum, a former secretary and model who once ran a travel agency, has visited dozens of countries worldwide.

She recently went to India — for the second time. "I flew up to the Himalayas," she said. She went to the UK in 2023 and cruised to Mexico earlier this year.

"Most people my age are afraid of traveling," she said. But, to her, it's "no big deal."

"They'll say things like, 'I won't be able to lift my suitcase or get around the airport,'" Kirshenbaum said. But, she said, strangers are "happy to help."

"I've lost some strength in my hands," she said. "If I have trouble opening a bag of pretzels or other snacks on the plane , I just ask the person next to me to open it for me."

The 100-year-old said that if you have a "leaky bladder" because of your age, invest in adult diapers before you leave. "Wear Depends," she said. "Don't let it stop you from going out and doing things."

Do you have a powerful story to share with Business Insider? Please send details to [email protected] .

Watch: Here's The Formula For A Long And Happy Life From A 100-Year-Old Math Teacher

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TSA is prepared for a busy spring break travel season, expects travel volumes at nearly 6% above 2023

WASHINGTON – As spring break travelers prepare for their vacation getaways, the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) is up for the challenge and is offering practical tips to help them plan for a smooth journey as they go through the security checkpoint and take to the skies. The busy peak spring break travel season begins around March 7 and continues through March 25.

“TSA screened a record number of passengers in 2023, and we expect that trend to continue this year,” said TSA Administrator David Pekoske. “So far in 2024, travel volumes are trending at nearly 6% above the same period in 2023. We always work closely with our airline and airport partners to plan for and meet the increasing travel demand while doing our best to maintain our wait times of 30 minutes or less in standard lanes and 10 minutes or less in TSA PreCheck ® lanes.”

TSA knows travelers put a lot of time and effort into planning the perfect spring break getaway, so we are providing the following tips and tricks to help make sure your special trip gets off to a great start:

Pack smart and remember the 3-1-1 rule. Make sure to start with an empty bag to avoid packing any prohibited items. If you’re heading to the beach, you may wonder how to pack your sunscreen. Any liquids, sunscreen containers and alcohol over 3.4 ounces must be packed in a checked bag. Liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes are allowed in carry-on bags as long as each item is 3.4 ounces or less and placed in one quart-sized bag. Each passenger is limited to one quart-size bag of liquids, aerosols, gels, creams and pastes.

Unloaded firearms must be packed in a locked, hard-sided case in checked baggage only and must be declared to the airline. Travelers who bring firearms or other weapons to the security checkpoint face consequences . To avoid delays, passengers should search TSA’s “ What Can I Bring? ” webpage.

Be checkpoint ready and bring a valid ID. Arrive at the checkpoint with a mobile or printed boarding pass and readily available valid ID . Listen closely to and follow instructions from TSA officers for guidance through the screening process. At many checkpoints, you may be asked to insert your physical ID into one of our Credential Authentication Technology (CAT) units, where a boarding pass is not needed. Nearly 30 airports have a second generation of CAT, called CAT-2, which adds a camera with optional facial recognition technology and smartphone reader. This technology better detects fraudulent IDs. Passengers who do not want their photos taken may ask the TSA officer for a manual ID check without losing their place in line. For more information on how TSA is using facial recognition technology, see our TSA Facial Recognition Technology Fact Sheet . Starting May 7, 2025, every air traveler 18 years of age and older must have a REAL ID -compliant driver’s license or another acceptable form of ID to fly within the United States. 2024 is a good time to get your REAL ID. Contact your state DMV for more information.

Enroll in TSA PreCheck ® . Enjoy the benefits of faster checkpoint screening with a TSA PreCheck membership. Traveling with kids? Teenagers aged 17 and under may accompany TSA PreCheck-enrolled parents or guardians through TSA PreCheck screening lanes when traveling on the same reservation and when the TSA PreCheck indicator appears on the teen’s boarding pass. Children 12 and under may still accompany an enrolled parent or guardian through the TSA PreCheck lanes any time, without restriction. Most new enrollees receive a Known Traveler Number (KTN) within five days, and membership lasts for five years. TSA PreCheck starts at $78 for a five-year membership. That’s about $15.60 per year. Online renewals are $70. Don’t delay. Enroll in TSA PreCheck today.

Arrive early and please be patient. Spring break travelers should give themselves plenty of time to account for traffic, parking, rental car returns, airline check-in, security screening and making any airport purchases before boarding a flight. The airport environment can be stressful. Remain patient, and remember everyone around you is also on their own journey. Passengers who engage in unruly behavior at the checkpoint, the gate area or inflight may face substantial penalties and possible prosecution on criminal charges.

Call ahead to request passenger support. Travelers or families of passengers with disabilities and/or medical conditions may call the TSA Cares helpline toll-free at 855-787-2227 with any questions about screening procedures and to find out what to expect at the security checkpoint. If you call at least 72 hours prior to travel, TSA Cares also arranges assistance at the checkpoint for travelers with specific needs. For more information, visit the TSA Cares website .

Ask TSA before you travel. Contact TSA over social media by sending a message to @AskTSA on X or Facebook Messenger. Passengers may also send a text directly to 275-872 (“AskTSA”) on any mobile device. An automated virtual assistant is available 24/7 to answer commonly asked questions, and AskTSA staff are available 365 days a year from 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. ET for more complicated questions. Travelers may also reach the TSA Contact Center at 866-289-9673 from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. ET on weekdays and 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. ET on weekends/holidays. An automated service is available 24/7.

TSA encourages all passengers to remain vigilant. If You See Something. Say Something ® . Those traveling abroad for spring break should check the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Know Before You Go page to learn about required documentation.

For more information on airport security screening, visit tsa.gov .

travel advice derry

Knox College Prairie Fire

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Men's Basketball 3/12/2024 3:00:00 PM

Student-Athlete Spotlight: Aidan Derry

Aidan Derry is a junior on the Prairie Fire men's basketball team from Edwards, Illinois. Aidan works several jobs on campus, including the fitness center and sports information. He is a member of Phi Gamma Delta and is the men's basketball representative for the Student-Athlete Advisory Committee (SAAC).  

What is something that you have done in the last year that you are really proud of? Can you go into detail about the experience and why you are so passionate about it?

One thing I have done this past year that I am proud of is I have participated in two philanthropy events to raise money for the Special Olympics. One was a sand volleyball tournament and the other was a polar plunge. I also helped referee a Special Olympics basketball tournament at Galesburg High School. I am so passionate about these things because I love the sport of basketball and sports in general so seeing organizations such as the Special Olympics give opportunities to people with special needs to play sports brings a smile to my face.

What is your favorite Knox memory?

My favorite Knox memory would probably be traveling to Ripon for the women's conference tournament that they ended up winning last year. There were only about 10 Knox students there, but we matched the energy of the whole Ripon student section.

What is your favorite all-time memory playing your sport?

My favorite all time basketball memory is when our whole team went to Hawaii this year.

What do you love most about your sport?

I came into Knox not knowing anyone on the team or how I'd end up in the system, but ended up meeting some lifelong friends that will be there after I graduate.

Why did you choose Knox?

I chose Knox for its education and its Business Program and so I can pursue my love for basketball.

What do you love about Knox?

I love that you get to know each professor on a personal level because of its small class sizes and that the professors want to see you succeed in and after college.

If you could travel/live anywhere in the world where would it be?

If I could travel anywhere in the world I would choose Bora Bora. It has been one of my dream places to visit since I was younger.

What has changed most from being a high school student to being a college student?

What has changed most from high school to college would be the amount of work I put into homework and basketball.

What do you like most about Galesburg/ the Galesburg Community?

What I like the most about Galesburg is the small town feeling and its great restaurants.

If you could play any sport (that you do not already play) what would it be? (does not have to be a sport at Knox)

I would play football, I played in high school and miss the games and "Friday Night Lights" feeling. 

What advice would you give your younger self knowing where you are today?

The advice I would give my younger self would be to try harder in academics because at the end of the day education is what is going to get you through life and the more you know the better off you are.

What do you enjoy most about Division 3?

I enjoy the small school feeling and being able to recognize most people on campus and build relationships with those people. 

What is your favorite movie?

Star Wars Revenge of the Sith.

Who is your favorite band/artist?

Kings of Leon

What is one tip you would give an incoming FY?

The tip I would give incoming first-years would be to no matter what happens in either school/sports just stick through and become the best version of yourself you can be.

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