The Best 13 Things to Do in Derry in 2025
Derry in 2025 promises a delightful blend of history and culture. Our curated list of the top things to do in Derry ensures every traveller, from families to couples, can discover the captivating charm of this vibrant city and create lasting memories with their loved ones.
Is Derry worth visiting for tourists?
Derry is a must visit destination in Northern Ireland for tourists. It is one of the world's best preserved walled cities. Rich in history and culture, Derry has a plethora of activities and attractions that cater to all age groups, providing a fun and interesting trip.
Things to see in Derry: Historical & Cultural Experiences:
1. Explore the Tower Museum
There are some really interesting and unique things to see in Derry. Located in Union Hall Place, the Tower Museum houses two permanent exhibitions like the ‘’The Story of Derry’’, which tells the rich and dramatic history of the city staring from prehistory to present day, while the other exhibition is the ‘’An Armada Shipwreck - La Trinidad Valencera’’, which tells the story of one of the largest ships in the Spanish Armada. The Museum is also home to the Derry Girls Experience, displaying memorabilia from the show. Did you know, the top floor viewing platform here offers panoramic views over the historic city walls and River Foyle?
2. The Museum of Free Derry
The Museum of Free Derry reflects the people's story of government oppression, struggles for civil rights, descent into conflict, Free Derry and Bloody Sunday. The museum is a space that explores the historical and contemporary contexts of Free Derry. The Museum features some of the most powerful personal testimonies, artefacts, and photographic archives from the community.
3. Walking Tour: Blue Plaques of the Maiden City
The Blue Plaques walking tour lasts 2 hours, combining history and sightseeing into an enjoyable and informative tour of the streets of Derry-Londonderry. The commemorative plaques memorialise important names and related information, allowing you to head back hundreds of years, hear their stories and connections to the city. Between the plaques you will learn about the most iconic sights and historical aspects of Derry.
Experiences & Fun Things to Do in Derry
1. Local craft beers and dining at The Walled City Brewery
The Walled City Brewery is Derry’s ultimate tasting experience, offering beer masterclasses, Gin School and local flavours. The brewery is situated right in the heart of Derry, providing a fun atmosphere and giving you a taste of Derry with their delicious menu and one-of-a-kind craft beers. If you are a foodie you will love this place as the menu is locally inspired, featuring seasonal produce and creative takes on Irish classics.
2. “Ceili & Craic Experience” at the Ponderosa
Enjoy the ‘’Ceili & Craic’’ experience at the Ponderosa, an evening devoted to the essentials of Irish culture and tradition. Housed in the time-honoured pub, the walls are decorated with an array of historical images and artefacts, including Seamus Heaney’s most famous poem ‘’Digging’’. The lively atmosphere, delicious Irish supper and traditional music will make this an unforgettable experience. The Ponderosa is surrounded by sweeping mountain views which only enhances the enchantment of your evening.
3. Shopping in Foyleside and Richmond Centres
Home to a plethora of high street brands, Foyleside and Richmond Centres is a great place for a shopping spree. Located in the centre of the spectacular Walled City, the shopping centre houses brands like M&S, River Island, H&M, Monsoon, Next, Boots and so much more.
Nature & Outdoor activities in Derry
1. Day Trip to Explore the Sperrin Mountains
Take a day trip to explore the beautiful Sperrin Mountains, discover the enchanting landscapes and rich history. The homeplace of Nobel laureate Seamus Heaney, the Sperrin Mountains are packed with historical gems, natural wonders and literary inspirations that will leave you captivated and in awe. The area is also ideal for stargazing, with some of the darkest skies in Ireland.
2. Countryside Treks with Crindle Stables
This 45-minute trek takes you horseback along the country trails roads and fields providing breathtaking views of the Binevenagh Mountains. Crindle Stables offer private countryside treks, which includes a mini lesson about horse steering, a trail ride and grooming, priced at £65 per person. While also offering group countryside treks at £40 per person. You can reach out to Crindle Stables, and they will also help you out by matching and planning your activities according to your skill level!
3. Outdoor Adventure at Oakfire Adventures
Oakfire Adventures provides visitors with activities that are uniquely suited to the terrain of Derry. Established in 2006, Oakfire Adventures offers a variety of fun, exciting and daring activities such as Zip trek, Tree trek, full aerial challenge and paintball, making it one of the most fun things to do in Derry. Oakfire is located just a short drive of about 20 minutes’ from Maldron Hotel Derry making it perfect base for you and your family. Stay with us and make this adventure with your family, friends and loved ones a memorable one!
4. Walks near The River Foyle
Enjoy a relaxing stroll along the River Foyle, the trail starts in Derry heading through the town to the River Foyle, where you cross the Peace Bridge and continue through St Columb Park. The flat coastal walk along the sea wall is a linear route with several access points allowing visitors to walk the entire 8km or a shorter section if desired. The Peace Bridge over the beautiful waters of the River Foyle gracefully connect both sides of the city which is a powerful symbol of unity in the regions post-conflict journey.
Some Unique Experiences in Derry
1. Taste Causeway Experience
Taste Causeway is an all-Ireland Foodie destination award winner and an accredited slow food destination, bringing together food artisans, producers, and hospitality experts from the Causeway Coast and Glen in celebration of the region’s exceptional local food and drink. This initiative champions sustainable tourism and offers an enticing experience for food enthusiasts, couples, families, and friends seeking authentic local flavours. Get ready to be mesmerised by the landscape’s rich culinary heritage and warm hospitality.
2. Giant Shipwrecks of the North Coast boat tour
Hop abroad for a fascinating voyage towards Rathlin Island and along the Causeway Coast in search of historic shipwrecks. During the tour you will see where the Spanish Armada vessel La Girona went down, as well as the wartime wreck sites of HMS Drake, HMS Brisk, and cargo vessel S.S Lugano. Your guide will provide you with interesting stories about modern wrecks of the previous world wars as well as tales of the Spanish Armada.
3. Health and Wellness at The Mussenden Unwind
Relax and de-stress at the Mussenden Unwind. Arriving at the beautiful Downhill beach, wander across the wooden walkway viewing the mountains and the shoreline. This nature therapy experience encourages you to soak up and appreciate the atmosphere, taking time to listen to the sounds of the birds and willow of the trees, as your de-stress most of nature.
FAQs about Derry
Why is Derry so famous?
Derry is Ireland’s only completely intact Walled City. The unique and rich heritage of Derry compliments the city's modern charm. There are so many exciting things to do in Derry, unique activities, rich history and home to famous historical events and people.
What is the oldest pub in Derry?
The River Inn is Derry’s oldest pub, established in 1684, with rich history stretching back to before the siege. This pub was established in 1684, and it is believed to have met the three criteria for an Inn's license at the time: permission to sell punch, provide accommodation, and stable horses. Notably, its cellars were used to detain Wolfe Tone in 1798 before his execution in Dublin.
What are some fun facts about Derry Walls?
The Walls vary in width between 12 and 35 feet and are the most complete in Ireland and one of the finest examples in Europe of Walled Cities. Derry’s walls, also known as the Walls of Derry, were originally built by the Irish Society between 1613 and 1619, under the supervision of the London builder and architect Peter Benson. The Irish Society, who were responsible for building the structure in the early 17th century remain its owners.
Did Amelia Earhart land in Derry?
It was on May 20th, 1932, when Amelia Earhart became the first woman to fly solo across the Atlantic Ocean alone landing in Ballyarnett, Derry. Amelia’s flight was originally intended to reach Paris, however, faced strong winds and mechanical issues, leading to her unexpected but celebrated arrival in Derry.
Staying in Derry?
