Derry/Londonderry - City Walls History Walking Tours
Active
1h - 2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
One of the few tours that walks a full circuit of the famous City Walls with smaller sized groups for the quality and comfort of guests.
Available as either a PUBLIC Tour with individual places or as a PRIVATE Tour.
1. Private Tours (2 hrs)(1-15 places) Alternative starting points and routes can be requested and adapted to facilitate disabled or wheelchair guests.
2. Public Tour -Individual Places (75-90mins)(1-15 places)
3. Full/Half Day tours are available within the Specialised History tour option
This tour gives a wider history of the city, including St Columba, Vikings, Normans and Irish chieftains, the Plantation of Ulster, the building of its iconic Walls, the siege of 1688/89, the aftermath of Scots/Irish emigration to the USA, industrialisation, railways and bridge building, the 1840s potato famine and resulting emigration , the Home Rule crisis and partition, the city in two World Wars , the recent Troubles, the peace process including Brexit, and the Derry Girls.
Available options
90 min City Walls PUBLIC Tour
Individual Places (Max of 15): Prices vary by time and group sizes. Book all 15 places if available to convert to a private tour.<br/>Duration: 1 hour 30 minutes: Approximately 75-90 minutes depending on guests walking speeds.<br/>Public Tour Route: Usually Anti-Clockwise on the City Walls.
2 Hour City Walls PRIVATE Tour
Private Group Tour : Book for your Private group of 1 to 15 people<br/>Duration: 1 hour 45 minutes: Alternative inner city centre start points, such as hotels can usually be arranged. Please request after booking.<br/>Tour Route: Usually Clockwise and can usually be adapted for guests who use a wheelchair or other disabilities, if notified in advance.<br/>Start Times: Other Start Times may be available on request
What's included
Licensed Tour Guide
Detailed itinerary
1
In this section of the tour we will be able to see the Walls of Derry, the Guildhall, the Tower Museum, oldest cannons on the Walls and views of Peace Bridge. We will consider the history of the city from its origins to plantation and the building of the Walls.
2
From this section of the tour we will be looking at Ferryquay Gate, the Playhouse, St Columb's Cathedral and the Fountain Estate, as well as discussing aspects of the sieges history of the city
3
In this section of the tour we will be looking at Bishops Gate, Double Bastion, St Augustine's Church,Walkers Plinth, Apprentice Boys Memorial Hall, and First Derry Presbyterian Church.
4
In this section of the tour we will be looking at the section of the Walls from Butcher Gate back to Shipquay Place, and considering more aspects of the city's history from the time of the siege to the present day. We will also visit the Craft Village.
5
A brief introduction only to the Guildhall.
What's not included
Admission Fees
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.8
18 reviews
5★
16
4★
1
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Tripadvisor
5.0
139 reviews
5★
134
4★
4
3★
1
2★
0
1★
0
Important information
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
A wheelchair and stroller accessible route can be arranged for private group tours - please request at time of booking.
Meeting point
Meet OUTSIDE of the main customer entrance to the "Visit Derry" Visitor Information Centre, Waterloo Place - this is the entrance opposite the Maiden Heaven Coffee and Ice Cream Shop. Guide will normally be wearing blue Derrie Danders branded clothing.
About Derry (Londonderry)
Derry, also known as Londonderry, is a historic city in Northern Ireland with a rich heritage and vibrant cultural scene. It is famous for its well-preserved 17th-century city walls, a significant role in Irish history, and a lively arts and music community. The city offers a unique blend of historical sites, modern attractions, and warm hospitality.
Top Attractions
Derry's City Walls
The well-preserved 17th-century city walls are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a significant landmark. They offer a unique walk around the city with panoramic views.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Museum of Free Derry
This museum provides a detailed account of the civil rights movement and the events of Bloody Sunday in 1972. It's a poignant and educational experience.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
Tower Museum
The Tower Museum offers a comprehensive look at the history of Derry and the surrounding region, from prehistoric times to the present day.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free (donations welcome)
St. Columb's Cathedral
This beautiful cathedral is the oldest building in Derry and a significant religious and architectural landmark. It's known for its stunning interior and historic significance.
Religious
30 minutes to 1 hour
Free (donations welcome)
Peace Bridge
The Peace Bridge is a pedestrian and cycle bridge that spans the River Foyle, symbolizing peace and reconciliation in the city. It offers beautiful views of the river and the city.
Architectural
15-30 minutes
Free
Must-Try Local Dishes
Irish Stew
A hearty dish made with lamb, potatoes, carrots, and onions, slow-cooked to perfection.
Dinner
Contains meat and gluten
Fish and Chips
Freshly caught fish, typically haddock or cod, battered and fried, served with thick-cut chips.
Lunch/Dinner
Contains fish and gluten
Ulster Fry
A hearty breakfast featuring soda bread, potato bread, bacon, sausage, egg, and black pudding.
Breakfast
Contains meat and gluten
Popular Activities
Hiking
Cycling
Kayaking on the River Foyle
Strolling along the city walls
Visiting local cafes
Relaxing in parks
Attending local festivals
Visiting museums
Best Time to Visit
June to August
This is the busiest time of year with pleasant weather and various festivals and events taking place. It's ideal for outdoor activities and exploring the city's historical sites.
15°C to 20°C (59°F to 68°F)
59°F to 68°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Irish (Gaelic)
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
Pound Sterling (GBP)
Time Zone
GMT (UTC+0) in winter, BST (UTC+1) in summer
Electricity
230VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Derry is generally a safe city for travelers, but as with any destination, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take common-sense precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis or ride-sharing apps
- • Be cautious when using ATMs, especially at night
Getting there
By air
- City of Derry Airport • 5 km (3 miles) from city center
- Belfast International Airport • 80 km (50 miles) from city center
By train
Waterside Railway Station
By bus
Waterside Bus Station
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are the primary mode of public transport in Derry. The network is efficient and covers most parts of the city.
Taxis
Available • Apps: FreeNow, Hailo
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
City Center
Bogside
Waterside
Day trips
Giant's Causeway
100 km (62 miles) • Full day
A UNESCO World Heritage Site featuring unique hexagonal basalt columns formed by volcanic activity. It's one of the most famous natural attractions in Northern Ireland.
Belfast
80 km (50 miles) • Half day to full day
The capital of Northern Ireland offers a mix of historic sites, modern attractions, and vibrant culture. It's a great destination for a day trip from Derry.
Donegal
60 km (37 miles) • Full day
Donegal is known for its stunning landscapes, including mountains, beaches, and forests. It's a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Festivals
City of Derry International Choir Festival • Late May to early June
Halloween Derry • Late October
St. Patrick's Day Festival • March 17
Pro tips
- Visit the city walls early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best views and fewer crowds
- Check the schedules for local festivals and events, as they can greatly enhance your visit
- Try local seafood, especially oysters and salmon from the River Foyle
- Explore the Bogside Murals for a deeper understanding of the city's history and political context
- Use the Peace Bridge for a scenic walk and to experience the symbol of peace and reconciliation in the city
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
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