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Where to stay in Derry – Londonderry

There are so many fabulous places to stay in Derry – Londonderry.  From Air B&B’s to Boutique hotels – there truly is something for all budgets and preferences! 

Below you will find a list of traveller favourites 

 

Bishop's Gate Hotel

The exquisite Grade B1 listed Bishop’s Gate Hotel is perfectly positioned within the historic city walls in the heart of Derry City’s Cathedral Quarter.

Built in 1899, Bishop’s Gate Hotel, a luxury boutique hotel and a member of Ireland’s Blue Book blends stunning Edwardian architecture, stylish appointments and luxurious facilities which have been sensitively restored to pay homage to the rich heritage of the building, whilst exceeding the contemporary needs and desires of its guests.

In its reincarnation no detail has been left to chance; this iconic landmark is an intimate urban oasis featuring 30 luxurious guestrooms, including suites, 9 apartments, The Wig and Gown Champagne Bar and Restaurant, The Hervey Library and Northern Counties Ballroom. 

Maldron Hotel

You are guaranteed a fantastic night stay at the city’s Maldron hotel.  Nestled right within the 17th Century walls – your location couldn’t get any better than this – whether its history , culture or shopping you are interested in – then you will be right in the centre of it all if you choose the Maldron Hotel.  

City Hotel, Derry

Perched on the banks of the River Foyle, within a five-minute walk from the historic Derry Walls, the 4 star City Hotel Derry is ready to welcome you to one of Northern Ireland’s most idyllic locations.

After you’ve finished exploring, you can relax in one of the 158 bedrooms, including “The Collection Penthouse Suites & Rooms”, superior rooms, suites, family rooms and accessible rooms..

The stylish Thompson’s Restaurant, and Coppin’s Bar overlooking the River Foyle and Guildhall all offer a range of delicious dining and drinking options for locals and hotel guests. Or perhaps you want to unwind? If so, why not take a dip in the 15m swimming pool or enjoy the jacuzzi, steam room or gymnasium..

Shipquay Hotel

Overlooking the City Walls and the famous Guildhall, Shipquay Hotel is a 4 Star luxurious, intimate boutique hotel in the heart of Derry~Londonderry. Shipquay Hotel is a 5 storey Italianate-style listed heritage building. The origins of the building date back to 1895 when it was originally constructed for the Provincial Bank of Ireland. With 21 contemporary bedrooms, many with views over the city’s famous landmarks, deliciously contemporary food offerings and moreish wine and cocktails; Shipquay oozes personality, character and style throughout. Situated at the hub of Derry’s shopping, arts and social scene, it’s the perfect place for a visit to Derry~Londonderry.

Cathedral Quarter Apartments

In the heart of the Walled city , Cathedral Quarter Apartments offer stylish and comfortable fully furnished self catering apartments. 

Each floor of our carefully renovated building on the corner of Derry’s historic Pump Street has been converted into a charming one-bedroom, self-catering apartment sleeping up to four guests. 

Named after streets in the Cathedral Quarter, The Ferryquay Suite, The London Room and The Bishop’s Snug, each combine calming colours and luxurious design with all the practical provisions you’ll need for the perfect stay in our vibrant city.

Perfect for Derry Girls fans – I wonder will you see Maeve or Granda Joe with the infamous cream horn on the street where you stay. 

Number 8 Artillery Street B&B

Beautiful boutique accommodation right within the walled city.  A 200 year old townhouse has been renovated into this fabulous accommodation for visitors to the city.  Looking for some fantastic theatre performances in the city?  Then the Playhouse theatre is right next door and the Millennium Forum Theatre is just a 5 minute walk.

Everglades Hotel

Situated right by the beautiful Prehen woodlands and boathouse – the 4 star Everglades hotel does not disappoint. 

The Everglades hotel is part of the Hastings Group in NI who boast many hotels including the Culloden Estate, Europa Hotel and Grand Central Hotel in Belfast.

With their luxurious rooms, extensive cocktail menu and friendly staff – you will certainly receive the 5 star treatment.

Groarty House & Manor B&B

If you are looking to be situated out of the city centre but still want to have fantastic access to the city – then look no further than Groarty House.

Groarty House has been owned by the Hyndman family for 3 generations , John & Margaret put their heart and soul into their guest accomodation. 

Will a newly installed outdoor hot tub, sauna and BBQ hut , this is a perfect place for couples and groups. 

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Promoting Derry in the US

Charlene McCrossan travelled to the US with Tourism Ireland in February 2023, to ensure visitors were putting Derry on their list of must see travel destinations.

Dallas, Texas

First stop on Monday 6th February, was Dallas, Texas.  Tourism Ireland hosted an evening dinner event in the beautiful Joule Hotel.  We met with almost 100 tour operators and travel Agents, showcasing Ireland as a visitor destination.  Included in the Ireland team alongside Martin McCrossan tours was Hastings Hotels, CIE Tours, Brendan Vacations, Guinness Storehouse , Jameson Whiskey and many more.  We were sure to give Dallas a fabulous taste of Ireland.

Houston, Texas

In the early hours of Tuesday 7th February we embarked on a coach journey to beautiful Houston where we again hosted many agents and operators at the divine Briar Club. A beautiful setting to promote a beautiful travel destination! 

Denver, Colorado

A 5am start on the morning of Wednesday 8th February took us to Houston airport to fly to chilly Colorado.  The air may have been cold, but we certainly received a warm welcome at the Ritz Carlton in Denver.  At our evening event, I was delighted to meet honorary Irish consul James Lyons, who succeeded George Mitchell in 1997 as Special Advisor to the President.  Mr Lyons played a crucial role in our Peace Process and has written the book “Where Peace Meets the Streets”, it covers our pathway to peace in Northern Ireland and all proceeds from the book goes to the families of the Omagh bomb victims.

Beverly Hills, Los Angeles

Another early start on Thursday 9th February took us on a flight to beautiful Beverly Hills.  The Maybourne hotel provided a perfect location to showcase our offerings to travel trade in the evening.  On Friday 10th February, Tourism Ireland hosted a media lunch for many media outlets in the area – Entertainment Tonight, IGN movies, NY Post and many more!  We had beautiful Irish music from the amazing Mairtin De Cogain – a perfect way to end a jam packed week!

A fantastic week showcasing Ireland and especially Derry as a visitor destination with lots of interest in our historic city and lots of laughs about Derry Girls.  We are hoping that this trip has helped to get our offerings known on the US West coast and provide a welcome boost to our industry. A huge thanks is due to Tourism Ireland for putting on a fantastic event over the 5 day period and for inviting Martin McCrossan tours to be a part of it!  

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Shopping in the City

Shopping in Derry is like no other, we have so much pride in our local vendors and high street heroes.  Check out our top tips if you are planning a shopping spree in the city.

Foyleside Shopping Centre

Right where our tours begin we have Foyleside Shopping Centre.  Boasting over 50 stores to ensure that you can find whatever you may be looking for.  Grab the essentials in Boots Chemist or Marks & Spencers, indulge in a sneaky bite from McDonald’s or the food court on Level 3 and treat your loved ones to a gift from Rituals or Yankee Candle.  There is something for everyone at Foyleside!

The Craft Village

A hidden gem in the city home to many local traders. 

A traditional Irish village , home of the Shirt factory mural and authentic thatch roof cottage. Experience some fine dining in Artis restaurant, or grab an award winning scone from The Cottage whilst exploring some of our city’s finest artists – from cake shops to design makers and from book stores to fashion this is an opportunity not to be missed on your visit to the city. 

The Richmond Centre

With 35 of your favourite high street retailers under one roof the Richmond Centre has something for everyone.  Pop into Mermaid Cove and treat yourself to some locally produced bath salts or into Equivalenza to pick your favourite scent – you will not be disappointed! 

On wandering throughout the city, please also be sure to pop into our local traders in and around the walled city.  Top recommendations from us include ‘Ferry Clever’ on Bishop Street for all your gifting needs and ‘Vine’ on Shipquay Street for local charcuterie, candles and homewares.

Be sure to join a Martin McCrossan City Tour to get your bearings on the walled city – a first stop shop to navigate the rest of your stay!

Our guide Garvin with Derry Girls writer Lisa McGee at Ferry Clever

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Museums In the City

Our city has such a diverse and rich history so it is only right that we have a range of museums to showcase that.  Each of our museums are totally different to the others, giving an immersive experience into cultures in our city.

The Tower Museum

The Tower Museum is the main council run museum in the city and is fantastic value at only £4pp.  In this museum they have 2 permanent exhibitions ‘The Story of Derry’ which gives an insightful background into all of the city’s history with artefacts and collections and their second exhibition is ‘La Trinidad Valencera’ – which covers the history of the Spanish Armada ship which sunk off the coast of our neighbouring county Donegal in 1588.  Discovered in 1971 off Kinnagoe Bay in Donegal, the Tower Museum now hosts the fantastic exhibiton exploring its discovery and its history.

Until 24th March 2023 and running in conjunction with the 25th Anniversary of the Good Friday agreement,  the Tower Museum are running a temporary exhibition showcasing Peace Heroines of our region.  This fantastic exhibition celebrates local woman working across political and religious divides to create a more peaceful future for generations to come.  This exhibit is one not to be missed!

The Tower Museum, Union Hall Place, Londonderry BT48 6LU 

Museum of Free Derry

Based in the Bogside, an area of the city which seen extremely difficult times during the Troubles 1968-1998, The Museum of Free Derry is a must visit.  Run by families of victims of the troubles – learn about the civil rights movement up until Bloody Sunday 1972.  The story is told from the point of view of those who were most affected and involved by these events.  Be sure to explore the Bogside area also while visiting – Free Derry Corner, the murals and the Bloody Sunday Memorial Garden will offer powerful insights into our history.

Museum of Free Derry
Bloody Sunday Trust
55 Glenfada Park
Derry, BT48 9DR

The Siege Museum

Located in the heart of the Walled City, delve deeper into the tragic events of the Siege of the walled city in 1689.  Originally 13 Apprentice Boys shut the gates shouting “No Surrender” and today there are thousands of Apprentice Boys who commemorate this time period in our history.   This museum is run by current Apprentice Boys who are passionate about their role in the city’s cultural traditions.  Read the Siege menu, see a replica of the statue of Governor Walker and learn about one of the city’s longest running organisations.

The Guildhall

The Heart of the City.  Our working city hall with our Council Chamber and Mayor’s Parlour no visit to Derry would be complete without a stop here.  Extensively rennovated in 2013, the Guildhall is an architectural delight and boasts the largest pipe organ in the country with 3132 pipes.  Beautiful stained glass windows lend extra light into the main hall, each window telling a story of a significant part of our city’s history.  The ground floor also has an exhibition on ‘The Plantation of Ulster’.

As of December 2022, our city hall became the only place in the world where you can view the Nobel Peace Prize, Gandhi Prize for peace and the Martin Luther King prize for Peace side by side by side – with a fabulous exhibition on one our our city’s greatest John Hume – the only person in the world to have won all 3 major Peace Prizes.

Guildhall Street, Derry BT48 6DQ

Coming soon – our new Maritime Museum is expected to open in 2024, covering the history of our city’s role in World War 2, the U Boat surrender in the River Foyle in 1945 and the history of ‘Europe Base 1’ Ebrington Square.

Be sure to join a Martin McCrossan Tour of the city to gain a full background of all aspects of the city’s history.  Tours everyday at 10am,12noon, 2pm and 4pm and the cost is only £6pp.  No need to book – just show up at 11 Carlisle Road at your preferred day and time.

 

~Charlene McCrossan 

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Eating out in Derry

Whether its a light lunch you are after or some fine dining, Derry is certainly a foodie destination!  We have everything from casual street food to Michelin recommended – be sure to tickle your tastebuds on your visit here!

Brown's & Browns In Town

 Michelin Recommended.  Fine dining menus and numerous award wins  , Browns is renowned for its sumptuous food and impeccable service.  With the original restaurant ‘Browns Bonds Hill’ just a short walk over the peace bridge to the East Bank of the River Foyle and their additional restaurant ‘Browns In Town’ in the heart of the city centre on the cityside this is certainly one not to be missed!

Browns Bonds Hill,  1 Bonds Hill, Derry ~ Londonderry, BT47 6DW 

Brown’s In Town, 21 Strand Road, Derry ~ Londonderry, BT48 7DJ

Thoroughly enjoyed our visit to Browns at Bonds Hill. The food was excellent and the chef was able to adapt the menu to accommodate my husband’s food intolerances eg gluten and dairy free. The service was efficient and friendly. A visit to Browns is most definitely a first class culinary experience

– Trip Advisor Review 2023

Walled City Brewery

A gastropub and taproom based in the heart of the city in Ebrington Square with a delicious menu and a range of one of a kind craft beers.  The Walled City Brewery have previously won the title of “Best GastroPub in Ireland”.  In 2022, they expanded their restaurant to open a new Taproom experience – following your meal in the restaurant you can venture into the Taproom and sample some craft beer brewed on site – or even try their signature Gin – Earhart Gin – named after one of the world’s most famous female aviators Amelia Earhart who landed in our city in 1932.

Personal Recommendation from Charlene McCrossan  – a pint of Kicks Lager – named after the Undertones hit ‘Teenage Kicks’

Delicious innovative flavours. Sea bass with fried capers and spicy sauce. Amazing starter of fish cake with big chunks of salmon and cod. A real gourmet delight in a nice relaxed setting. Excellent and friendly service.

– Trip Advisor Review 

Walled City Brewery, Parade Ground, 70 Ebrington Square, Derry, BT476FA.

Java Coffee Shop

The perfect midday stop either before or after a walking tour with ourselves! A warm welcome awaits whether it’s a Full Irish breakfast and a Coffee you are craving or a healthy superfood salad for lunch or a homemade scone and a cuppa.  Scones freshly made on site every morning, from wheaten and treacle to raspberry and white chocolate!  You are on your holidays – why not! Friendly staff, excellent service and in the cafe there is also a visitor information stand so pick up a map of the city , have a coffee and decide how to spend the rest of your day! 

Personal Recommendation from Charlene – Healthy Assiette – Scrambled Eggs & Avocado on Sourdough 

What a lovely friendly place, run by lovely friendly, welcoming people. The wide variety of scones are to die for. Drop in for a great value breakfast as well.

– Trip Advisor Review 

Java Coffee Shop, 33 Ferryquay Street, Derry, BT48 6JB

Get Fed Foods

Too busy seeing the sights and want something on the go? Then Get Fed offers everything from sandwiches to Vol- au- Vents and Paninis.  They also have a range of cakes, coffees and traybakes to go – perfect for those wishing to not miss an opportunity to see all the sites! 

Personal Recommendation from Charlene – Chicken Curry Vol-au-vent 

Get Fed Foods, 1A Carlisle Road, Derry, BT486JJ

Badgers Bar

Situated right outside the Walled City, right in the city centre and their gable wall is the home to the all important Derry Girl’s mural – Badgers Bar is a must visit !  Fantastic pub grub, in a cosy traditional setting with perfectly poured pints of Guinness what else could you ask for?

Personal Recommendation from Charlene – Madras Curry 

Badgers Bar, 18 Orchard Street , Derry, BT486EG

Claude's Cafe

“Say nothing till ye see Claude” an infamous local saying in our city, this beautiful cafe offers both hot and cold options, a perfect lunch stop! The owner Declan is renowned in the city for his generosity at Christmas time, providing those in need in the city with Christmas Dinners.  A gem of an eatery.

Personal Recommendation from Charlene – try the Hot Chocolate !

Claude’s Cafe, 4 Shipquay Street, Derry, BT486DN

Pyke 'n' Pommes

Named by National Geographic in the Top ten restaurants in Ireland – whether you wish to visit their trendy double decker bus on the banks of the River Foyle or their sit in restaurant , you will not get a taco like it anywhere else! Locally sourced, authentic, street – styled food.

Personal Recommendation from Charlene – Cauliflower Taco

Pyke ‘n’ Pommes (double decker bus), Strand Road (between Baronet Street and Foyle View Apartments, Derry, BT487NS

Pyke ‘n’ Pommes (licensed restaurant) 53- 57 Strand Road, Derry, BT487BN.

Cedar - A Taste Of Lebanon

Vegetarians will be at home in any Lebanese restaurant as they include many vegetarian healthy options.  Close your eyes and pretend you have been transported to the Middle East.  Described as a small oasis and a hidden gem, Cedar is a culinary experience not to be missed!

Personal recommendation from Charlene – Halloumi Salad 

Cedar, 32 Carlisle Road, Derry, BT486JW

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Top 10 Things to do in Derry

Are you visiting the city ? Looking for things to do in Derry ? Then look no further – we have you covered !  Check out some of our top attractions to visit in Derry / Londonderry.

 

Walk the 400 year old City Walls

the first thing to do in Derry when you arrive – great viewpoints of the city and an added bonus is that the City walls surround the city centre so it’s a fantastic way to get your bearings!

Visit the Guildhall

Did you know that one of the top things to do in Derry is something that cannot be done anywhere else in the World?  If you visit our City Hall the Guildhall, then you can view the Nobel Peace Prize, the Gandhi Prize for Peace and the Martin Luther King Prize for Peace all side by side.  The legendary John Hume who came from our city is the only person in the world to have won all 3 of these prizes, worth your time for that reason and many more!

Visit the Murals

The Bogside murals were painted by the Bogside Artists, these murals depict the difficult time period in the city’s history known as the Troubles 1968 – 1998. Visit the Bloody Sunday memorial garden and the Free Derry Corner.

Also be sure to visit the Derry Girls mural painted by UV Arts in 2019.

Peace Bridge

Connecting both the East bank and West bank of the River Foyle, offering pedestrians and cyclists a way to peacefully travel from one to the other, the peace bridge opened in 2011. The ‘S’ Shaped design reflects the meandering pathway to peace, the bridge is a metaphor for strength through adversity and a symbol of peace. If you walk from West to East you will find yourself in Ebrington Square, a former Army Barracks with listed buildings which are now home to breweries, restaurants and bakeries.  Soon to be the home of a new hotel and our long awaited Maritime Museum.

 

The Tower Museum

The Tower Museum is located within the walled city and features two permanent exhibitions, “The Story of Derry” and “An Armada Shipwreck-La Trinidad Valencera”, also boasting a contemporary exhibition space and open air viewing facility. Definitely worth your time and avail of discounted entry if you take a walking tour with ourselves.

St Columb's Cathedral

One of the city’s most historical buildings, completed in 1633 making it the worlds first purpose built Anglican Cathedral, displaying artefacts from the siege. Named after St Columb/ St Columba, the patron saint of the city who established a Christian settlement here in the sixth century, the cathedral is built in the Planter Gothic Style. How exceptional to walk inside a building laced in so much history.

Shopping in the City

The city’s best kept secret, the craft village features an array of unique artefacts created by Derry’s own collection of artists and makers. From bespoke jewellery inspired by the undulating Irish landscape to contemporary fashion designers and beautiful dried floral bouquets, purchase something you know nobody else would have, or simply immerse yourself in the colour, craft and creativity! Cake shops, cafes and the fine dining restaurant Artis will make sure to give you fuel for plenty of shopping.  We also are the home of two fabulous shopping malls Foyleside and Richmond Centre and have many high street stores in between!

Selfie with the Derry Girls

Visiting the Derry Girls mural will have you diving into the colloquialisms originally picked up from the hit Channel 4 drama “Derry Girls”. Make all ‘yer muckers’ jealous with a pic of you beside Erin, Orla, Michelle, Clare and James.  Painted by UV Arts in 2019 on the gable wall of Badgers Bar, be sure to pop in for a pint or a fantastic pub grub lunch.

Museum of Free Derry

Run by the families of the victims of of the troubles period 1968-1998 , learn about the Civil Rights movement in the city up to Bloody Sunday, located amongst the ‘Peoples Gallery’ murals in the Bogside.

Siege Museum

Run by the Apprentice Boys, learn more about the Siege of 1689 and the marching traditions in the city and across Northern Ireland.  Located just off the walls on Society Street next door to the Apprentice Boys Memorial Hall.

There are so many fantastic things to see and do in our wonderful city, this is why we feel so passionate about our role as tour guides.  Come join a walking tour with us to learn and explore more!  Tours operate 7 days a week at 10am, 12noon, 2pm & 4pm and cost only £6pp.  There is no need to book this tour – all you have to do is show up at 11 Carlisle Road at your preferred time.  We look forward to sharing our city, our history and our culture with you!

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