The history of Londonderry dates back to the Iron Age when a fort was built where the city now stands. Today, it's Northern Ireland's second-largest city after Belfast. With a picturesque location on the River Foyle, the city features ancient defensive walls, which are amazingly intact. Inside and outside these walls flourishes an eclectic artistic and cultural scene. Indeed, the very heart of the city benefited from a makeover when nominated as the 2013 UK City of Culture. Notable sights include the new Peace Bridge, Ebrington Square and the redeveloped waterfront and the Guildhall area, all of which were tastefully updated and are buzzing with life.
Londonderry offers plenty of history to take in, for example the Siege of Derry, the Battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday. Visitors can tour the Bogside murals and stop for refreshments in a pub where there's often live music. When it comes to festivals and celebrations, Londonderry hosts some of Ireland's best annual events with the Halloween Festival, the Guitar Festival and the Jazz and Big Band Festival. All are unmissable and accompanied by food, drink and the convivial Derry spirit.
Londonderry blends history with culture, guaranteeing a fantastic and interesting visit for all those who go there to enjoy Ireland's unique welcome.
Explore the City Walls
Built in the early 17th century, the walls extend for roughly a mile, enclosing the inner city. This provides a distinct view of the original town's layout interspersed by the city gates. Historic buildings inside the walls include St Columb Cathedral, the courthouse and the Apprentice Boys Memorial Hall.
Discover the Bogside
Walking around the Bogside uncovers the interesting political murals that local artists painted during the 1990's. These depict key events during the country's harsh conflicts. The Free Derry Monument and Bloody Sunday Memorial are also here.
Browse the Museums
The city is home to several museums. The Guildhall, Tower Museum, the Railway Museum, the Harbour Museum and The People's Gallery to name but a few. All depict key moments in the city's history, providing a fascinating educational experience.
The Irish are one of the best nations for knowing how to celebrate and Londonderry holds a number of excellent cultural festivals and entertaining events that bring thousands of visitors flocking to take part.
Halloween. Every year on 31st October, the city hosts an annual Halloween Carnival where thousands of revellers dress up and fill the streets and bars until the small hours. This is Ireland's biggest festival and attracts international visitors.
City of Derry Guitar Festival. Guitarists of all standards attend this annual weekend of workshops, master classes and concerts dedicated to the guitar. The festival has been running for well over a decade and is held at the end of August.
City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival. Another longstanding successful festival of international renown is the City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival, featuring international artists and some 40,000 people over the May bank holiday weekend.
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