Londonderry Derry is a city that wears its history on its walls and murals. Walking tours here aren’t just about sightseeing—they’re about understanding the stories that shaped Northern Ireland. Whether you’re interested in the Troubles, the Civil Rights movement, or the city’s centuries-old defenses, Derry offers a compelling array of walking experiences. We particularly appreciate tours that combine heartfelt storytelling with knowledgeable guides, such as the Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Tour or the City Walls history walk, which provide authentic insights into this layered city.
If you’re planning your trip, you’ll find options that suit different interests—from the deeply personal narratives of Bloody Sunday to the colorful street art of Derry Girls murals. Our list below highlights some of the top walking tours, each offering a unique perspective on Derry’s past and present.
Quick Overview
This list includes a variety of walking tours that explore Derry’s most iconic sites. Some focus on the Troubles and Bloody Sunday, like the Derry: Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour, while others take you around the historic city walls (City Walls History Walking Experiences) or explore the darker, haunted side of the city (Cityside Darker History Walking Tours). For a more political tour, the History and Politics Private City Walk offers an in-depth view of Derry’s ongoing peace process. Lastly, art lovers can enjoy the Street Art & Murals Tour. Each tour varies in length, depth, and focus, ensuring you’ll find one that matches your curiosity and schedule.
1. Derry: Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour
At number one, this Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Tour offers a highly rated, 1.5-hour deep dive into the tragic events of 1972. The tour starts in the Bogside, where you’ll see the iconic murals that vividly depict the struggles of the Civil Rights movement and the Troubles. The guide shares the story of Bloody Sunday, giving you context that’s both emotional and educational.
What makes this tour stand out is the personal connection that guides like Gleann bring. Rated 5/5 by 149 reviews, visitors praise his detailed knowledge and personal stories. The tour includes a visit to the Bloody Sunday monument, providing a tangible reminder of the past. This experience is ideal for history enthusiasts who want a compact but meaningful overview of Derry’s recent history. Expect a walk through some emotionally charged sites, with plenty of opportunities to reflect.
Bottom line: If you want a heartfelt, well-informed introduction to Derry’s Troubles history, this tour is hard to beat. It’s especially meaningful if you’re interested in understanding the personal stories behind the murals.
2. Derry City: The Troubles Bogside Walking Tour
Second on our list is the Derry City: The Troubles Bogside Walking Tour, which runs for 1.5 hours and garners a 4.9/5 rating from 160 reviews. Starting at the Museum of Free Derry, this tour takes you through the key sites of the Troubles, including the infamous Bloody Sunday scene, the famous “Free Derry Wall,” and the murals that tell the story of civil unrest.
What sets this tour apart is the guide’s personal connection—Noel’s emotional storytelling and detailed accounts bring history alive. He discusses the Battle of the Bogside, the Civil Rights marches, and the peace process, giving a nuanced view of this tumultuous period. Many reviews highlight the impact of the guide’s storytelling; one mentions that Noel’s personal connection made the history “even more impactful.”
This tour is perfect for travelers who want a vivid, emotional understanding of the Troubles, enhanced by personal stories from someone who lived through it. It’s a compact, intense experience that balances historical facts with human emotion.
Bottom line: For a deeply personal, well-rounded tour of the Troubles era, this tour offers a compelling narrative that sticks with you.
3. Derry: McCrossan’s Public Walking Tour of the Historic City
Number three is the McCrossan’s Public Walking Tour, a 1-hour guided walk that covers a broad sweep of Derry’s history. Starting at 11 Carlisle Rd, the tour brings you atop the city’s 400-year-old walls, providing sweeping views and stories about the city’s sieges, emigration, and the Plantation.
During the tour, you’ll see St. Columb’s Cathedral—the city’s oldest building—and hear about Derry’s role in World War II and the Siege of Derry. The guide, Mickey, earns high praise for clarity and enthusiasm, making complex history accessible and engaging. One reviewer notes the non-biased storytelling, which is a significant plus for visitors seeking an objective overview.
This tour is suited for those wanting a quick yet comprehensive introduction to Derry’s layered past without the emotional heaviness of the Troubles. It offers a good foundation for further exploration of the city’s history.
Bottom line: A good choice for newcomers or those with limited time who want an overview of Derry’s historic highlights.
4. Derry/Londonderry: City Walls History Walking Experiences
Number four is the City Walls History Walking Experiences, a full circuit of the 1.5 km walls that takes between 1.5 to 4 hours. This private or small-group tour emphasizes a balanced, politically neutral approach, exploring Derry’s 1500-year history through its walls and sites along the way.
Led by David Douglas, the tour covers the Siege, the Troubles, and the peace process while showcasing the city’s most significant landmarks. The review notes that the tour is well-paced, with detailed explanations, and tailored to the group. The tour also includes stops at key sites like the Derry Girls murals and historic sieges, making it a rich experience for history lovers.
Since the tour is customizable and lasts up to four hours, it’s suited for travelers wanting an in-depth, flexible exploration. The only downside might be the higher price point, but the private nature adds value for those wanting a personalized experience.
Bottom line: Ideal for history buffs who want a thorough, balanced look at Derry’s past from a local perspective.
5. Derry City: The Bloody Sunday Story Walking Tour
Number five features the Bloody Sunday Story Tour, a 1.5-hour walk in the heart of Derry’s Bogside. This tour focuses specifically on the events of Bloody Sunday and the aftermath, offering a personal perspective from a guide who has firsthand experience.
Rated 4.8/5 from 32 reviews, it stands out for its engaging storytelling and emotional depth. The guide’s personal connection makes the history more vivid and impactful. Reviewers mention how powerful and empathetic the storytelling is, often highlighting that the tour is “very informative” and “highly recommended.” Some note that the tour could be a bit clearer over noisy streets, but that doesn’t detract much from the experience.
This tour suits those interested in a focused, emotionally resonant account of Bloody Sunday, especially if they appreciate personal stories that humanize historical events.
Bottom line: Best for travelers interested in a focused, personal recounting of Bloody Sunday and its lasting impact.
6. Derry: History and Politics Private City Walking Tour
Number six is a more in-depth, private option, the Derry: History and Politics Tour. Lasting around two hours, it explores the city’s political history, including the Bogside murals and Free Derry Corner.
The guide, who grew up in Derry, offers a personal narrative that helps visitors understand the ongoing political issues. The tour includes stops at the city’s most iconic sites, providing insight into Derry’s complex story. The limited reviews suggest it’s a good fit for those wanting a more customized experience and deeper context.
Ideal for travelers with a keen interest in the political story of Northern Ireland or those wanting a tailored experience. The private format means more conversation and flexibility, but it might be pricier than group tours.
Bottom line: Perfect for those seeking an intimate, detailed look at Derry’s political landscape with a local guide.
7. Derry/Londonderry: Cityside Darker History Walking Tours
Number seven brings us the Derry Cityside Darker History Tour, a spooky 1.5-hour stroll exploring Derry’s haunted past. This tour covers ghost stories, legends, and the eerie side of the city’s history, perfect for those intrigued by legends and the supernatural.
Rated 5/5, it’s praised for its engaging storytelling and atmospheric locations. The guide shares tales of ghosts, legendary characters, and the city’s darker stories, adding a fun twist to your walk. This tour is best suited for those who enjoy a bit of thrill and aren’t afraid of ghostly tales.
While it’s shorter than some other options, it offers a different perspective—mixing history with a touch of the supernatural. Perfect for a fun, less serious look at Derry’s past.
Bottom line: Great for fans of spooky stories and ghost lore, offering a lighter, entertaining way to learn about Derry’s darker tales.
8. Derry/Londonderry: Cityside Street Art & Murals Walking Tours
Finally, for art lovers, the Street Art & Murals Tour offers a 1.5- to 4-hour exploration of political and cultural murals across the city’s west bank. This tour showcases murals of the Derry Girls and Derry Boys, as well as historical political pieces and street sculptures.
Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is as much about art as history. Visitors appreciate the opportunity to see the city’s vibrant street art, which reflects ongoing social and political themes. The tour’s flexibility in length allows for a deeper exploration if desired. It appeals to those interested in visual storytelling and the city’s modern identity.
A highlight for many is seeing murals of the Derry Girls, which add a modern, humorous twist to the city’s political art. The tour is ideal if you want to combine sightseeing with a dose of contemporary culture.
Bottom line: Perfect for art enthusiasts and those keen to understand Derry’s current cultural landscape through its murals and street art.
How to Choose Your Perfect Derry Walking Tour
Choosing the right walking tour depends on your interests, time, and what you want from your visit. If you’re passionate about the Troubles, the Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Tour offers a heartfelt, impactful experience. For a broader overview of Derry’s history, the McCrossan’s Public Tour is quick and informative. If you’re fascinated by politics and want a tailored experience, the Private City Politics Tour is your best bet. Art lovers should consider the Street Art & Murals Tour, which blends culture with history.
Think about your budget, time constraints, and personal interest—whether it’s history, politics, art, or ghost stories. Booking tours early is wise, especially in peak seasons, to secure your spot.
Final Thoughts
Derry offers an impressive range of walking tours that uncover its layered past and vibrant present. Whether you want a powerful emotional experience like the Bloody Sunday tour, a comprehensive walk along the city walls, or a fun exploration of ghost stories, there’s a tour for you. For history enthusiasts, the Derry: Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Tour and the Walls history experience are standout options. For a more personal, political insight, the private History and Politics Tour is excellent.
No matter your choice, booking in advance will ensure you don’t miss out on these enriching experiences. Derry’s stories are best heard in person, so pick a tour that matches your curiosity and enjoy a meaningful walk through history.