Derry ~ Londonderry

Discover what's different about Derry ~ Londonderry!

If you’ve never been, you’re going to love it! If you have been, you’ll already know what makes Derry ~ Londonderry distinctly different from any other UK city: the people.

A little off the beaten track but an easy and scenic drive from both Belfast and Dublin (take your time – it’s all part of the joy of a car-cation), we’re reluctant to champion the city too much as we’d love to keep it all to ourselves. But we know you’ll love it: it’s a small and compact city that packs a big city-break punch: there’s no chance of you running out of things to do!

History buffs and culture vultures will have a field day: rich in history, there’s a story around every corner. And quite literally on any given day too: you can take your pick of walking tours. One of the most popular celebrates all things Derry Girls: the city’s most loved inhabitants made world famous by the Channel 4 show. Others are drawn to explore the dramatic history that has made this great city the ‘LegenDerry’ place it is today – all mostly told in the wonderful local accent by colourful characters who know their city inside out.

Named the UK’s first City of Culture way back in 2013, the city has art in its veins. People come just to explore the famous murals – they’re everywhere and again all in walking distance. You can walk the city walls by day at a leisurely pace and relax in the evening at the Millennium Forum, which offers an exciting menu of entertainment that includes everything from comedy to panto.

Much more than anywhere else we’ve visited, the cultural scene is open to - and embraced by – everyone. And you’ll see that every October when the city claims its crown as the Halloween capital of the world – spooky but true! - when everyone comes out to share the incredible spectacle.

The streets and shopping centres are home to all the big brands you’d expect – but if you’re looking for something a bit different, Independent Derry has got you covered! This creative collective champions local producers and suppliers and offers shoppers rewards and discounts – check out the link and download the app before you travel.

Speaking of independents, you’ll also find the city is home to a wealth of creative and delicious cuisine – there’s something for every budget and palate, whether fun family dining or a romantic meal, street food on the go or artisan produce to take home. Northern Ireland is well known for the quality and freshness of its food and the city is at the epicentre of the scene, perfectly poised between field and fishery to serve up freshness, every day.

When you travel to Derry - Londonderry it's the perfect base to explore the North West – head east to explore the north coast scenic route: a world famous drive that takes in the Giant’s Causeway and quite a few other seaside delights: stop in Portrush for a poke (local speak for an ice cream cone!) or to play the world famous Royal Portrush, hosts of the 148^th Open Championship. Go west and you’re heading in the right direction for the Wild Atlantic Way.

So, with all these delights, a visit to Derry ~ Londonderry could be just the start of a pretty epic road trip! Sail into Belfast or Dublin to start your car-cation.