Discover history and culture in vibrant Londonderry, Northern Ireland
Top reasons to visit Londonderry
- Historic Derry Walls: Explore the iconic Derry Walls, a 17th-century fortification offering stunning views and a glimpse into the city's past.
- Rich Cultural Scene: Immerse yourself in the vibrant local culture through live music, art, and friendly interactions with locals.
- Free Derry Museum: Delve into the city's history at the Free Derry Museum, which highlights the significant events of the Troubles.
- Outdoor Activities: Enjoy various outdoor pursuits, including scenic golf courses and picturesque countryside walks.
- Diverse Accommodation: Experience a range of lodging options, from hotels to charming bed and breakfasts, ensuring a comfortable stay.
Find great hotels in Londonderry
Discover the charm of Londonderry with a variety of accommodation options that cater to every traveller. Whether you're seeking a comfortable hotel for business or a quaint bed and breakfast for a family getaway, the city's diverse lodging choices ensure a memorable stay. With convenient access to local attractions, hotels in Derry offer the perfect base for your city-themed vacation experience.
- City Hotel Derry: Located in the heart of Londonderry, the City Hotel Derry is a stylish 4-star accommodation that marries contemporary comfort with vibrant urban life. Rated 8.4 out of 10, it offers an enticing array of dining options, including an accessible restaurant and a lively bar and lounge. Guests can engage in various recreational activities nearby, such as hiking, golfing, and even skydiving. With entertainment features like flat-screen and satellite TVs, visitors can unwind in comfort after exploring the nearby waterfront and shopping district.
- Maldron Hotel Derry: Emphasising sustainability and family-friendly services, the Maldron Hotel Derry is a 4-star haven with a guest rating of 8.6 out of 10. This eco-certified property caters to environmentally conscious travellers and families alike, providing amenities such as babysitting services and cribs for children. Its convenient location makes it an excellent base for both leisure and business trips, ensuring guests enjoy a comfortable and responsible stay in Londonderry.
- Holiday Inn Express Derry - Londonderry by IHG: Situated in the city centre, the Holiday Inn Express Derry - Londonderry is a 3-star accommodation with a commendable guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. This hotel is tailored for business travellers and those seeking a city-themed getaway. With its strategic location, guests can easily access local attractions, making it an ideal choice for both work and leisure. The hotel provides modern amenities and a comfortable atmosphere, ensuring a pleasant stay in Northern Ireland.
Where to stay in Londonderry
Discover the charm of Londonderry, a city rich in history and warmth, perfect for family vacations. Stroll through Derry City’s vibrant streets, where friendly locals enhance the inviting atmosphere. Enjoy a family staycation in central Derry, with convenient access to cultural excursions and outdoor activities. Nearby, explore the scenic beauty of the surrounding countryside, offering relaxation and adventure for every traveller. Experience the unique blend of heritage and hospitality that makes Londonderry a must-visit destination.
- Bogside: Nestled within Londonderry, Bogside is a vibrant village steeped in rich culture and history. Visitors often come for its cultural experiences, with numerous opportunities for walking and sightseeing. The area is famous for its striking murals that depict significant historical events, making it a compelling destination for those interested in understanding the local heritage. In addition to its historic sites, Bogside boasts beautiful parks, offering a peaceful retreat for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The best time to visit is from July to September when the village welcomes a peak in travellers.
- Foreglen: Located on the outskirts of Londonderry, Foreglen is a charming village that invites visitors to connect with nature in an eco-friendly environment. Perfect for families and outdoor lovers, this tranquil spot features picturesque parks and scenic landscapes that encourage exploration and relaxation. The local town hall adds a touch of community spirit, while the nearby rocks offer interesting geological formations to discover. Like Bogside, Foreglen sees a surge of visitors between July and September, making it an ideal summer escape.
- Dungiven: Dungiven is a quaint village situated near Londonderry, known for its stunning natural surroundings and outdoor activities. This eco-friendly destination attracts families and nature enthusiasts, with recreational areas perfect for enjoying the great outdoors. Visitors can explore local parks, striking rock formations, and even an island, making it a diverse experience for those keen on adventure. The village experiences peak visitor numbers from April and again from August to September, making these months ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in the local charm.
Things to do in Londonderry
Shopping
Londonderry offers a charming shopping experience with local shops and markets. Visit the Foyleside Shopping Centre for a variety of retail outlets and eateries. If you're up for a drive, head to the nearby Crescent Shopping Centre for even more options, just over 16km away in Derry.
Recreation
Discover the tranquil setting of the City Hotel's spa, where you can indulge in soothing treatments and unwind in the relaxation area. For outdoor enthusiasts, a stroll along the River Foyle offers scenic views and a peaceful atmosphere, perfect for a rejuvenating experience.
Adventure
Explore the Wild Atlantic Way, where you can experience stunning coastal views and thrilling cliff walks. For an adrenaline rush, try the nearby Benone Beach for surfing or sandboarding. Additionally, consider kayaking on the River Foyle for a unique perspective of the city.
Nightlife
In Londonderry, the Guildhall Taphouse offers a relaxed vibe with local brews and live music. The Underground is ideal for those seeking a lively dance scene, while The Derry Theatre of the Performing Arts showcases captivating performances, making for an engaging night out.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Londonderry
Londonderry is a budget-friendly destination with numerous free attractions such as the Derry City Walls, Peace Bridge, and Diamond. For transport, consider using buses for cost-effective travel. To save on accommodation, visit during the off-peak months of January, February, and November, and aim to book about a month in advance for the best rates. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to stay, while Saturdays tend to be pricier. Utilise platforms like Expedia to compare prices and combine bookings for further savings on hotels, flights, and activities.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Londonderry are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Book your hotel in Londonderry about 1 month out to secure some of the cheapest prices. If you're the spontaneous type, Expedia's last minute deals and discounts are indicated via the green label below the price.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Londonderry is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Londonderry is Saturday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and desired hotel type. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel accommodation in Londonderry with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Londonderry
Londonderry is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and culture seekers alike, offering a range of attractions such as historic sites, museums, and public art. Visitors can explore the iconic Derry Walls, delve into the city's rich history at the Free Derry Museum, and experience the vibrant local culture. Whether you're on a family holiday or seeking a cultural escape, Londonderry has something for everyone to enjoy.
- Derry City Walls: Explore the impressive 17th-century walls that encircle the city, offering stunning views and a glimpse into its tumultuous history. A stroll along the walls reveals engaging exhibits and iconic landmarks, making it a significant cultural experience.
- Brandywell Stadium: Home to Derry City FC, this historic sports stadium is a hub of local passion and pride. Attending a match here allows you to immerse yourself in the vibrant sports culture and experience the electric atmosphere created by dedicated fans.
- Gasyard Heritage Centre: Delve into the rich history of the local community at this engaging heritage centre. Through exhibitions and events, it showcases the cultural narrative of Derry, reflecting the area's resilience and spirit.
Best time to go to Londonderry
The best time to visit Londonderry can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Londonderry falls in July, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain. The coolest average temperature in Londonderry falls in January, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly cloudy with light rain.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Londonderry
Reaching Londonderry is accessible via several airports. The nearest is Londonderry (LDY-City of Derry), located 11km away, with nearby accommodation options like the 5-star Bishop's Gate Hotel and 4-star City Hotel Derry. Belfast (BHD-George Best Belfast City) is 103km from Londonderry, featuring luxury hotels such as The Fitzwilliam Hotel and The Merchant Hotel, both within 5km. Another option is Belfast (BFS-Belfast International), situated 80km away, with hotels like Doubletree by Hilton and Dunadry Hotel and Gardens nearby. Each airport offers various transport services for convenient access to hotels and the city.