Londonderry Derry stands out as a city rich with stories—stories of conflict, peace, art, and resilience. Its compact size makes it perfect for exploring on foot, and the variety of tours available ensures there’s something for every interest. Whether you’re intrigued by the Troubles, love a good mural, or want to see the filming locations of Derry Girls, this city offers insightful and engaging ways to connect with its past and present. Our favorite? The Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour delivers a powerful, personal look at some of Derry’s most poignant moments—highly rated and deeply moving.
If you’re wondering what kinds of tours are on offer, you’ll find historical walks, political tours, pop culture explorations, and even self-guided adventures. Each one has something unique—some focus on the city’s dark chapters, others on its artistic expressions, and some let you explore at your own pace with interactive options. Below is a detailed look at the best options in Londonderry Derry.
1. Derry: Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour
At number one, this Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour earns a perfect 5/5 from 149 reviews. It’s an intimate 1.5-hour walk through the heart of the Bogside, where you’ll learn about the 1972 Bloody Sunday massacre and see the stunning murals that tell the story of civil rights struggles, conflict, and hope. The guide, Gleann, is praised for his personal connection to the events, sharing insights that make history come alive. This tour is ideal for those wanting a deep, emotional understanding of Derry’s recent past. The visit includes the Bloody Sunday monument and offers perspectives that books simply can’t match.
Reviews highlight Gleann’s knowledge and personal storytelling, making this a compelling choice for history enthusiasts and curious travelers alike.
Bottom Line: An emotionally powerful tour that provides a personal and detailed view of Derry’s most defining events.
2. Derry City: The Troubles Bogside Walking Tour
At number two, this Troubles Bogside Walking Tour boasts a 4.9/5 rating from 160 reviews. Centered around the Museum of Free Derry, this tour dives into the stories behind Bloody Sunday, the Battle of the Bogside, and the Irish peace process. The guide, Noel, is lauded for his engaging storytelling, often sharing personal connections—including experiences of loss during the Troubles—adding authenticity. You’ll visit the famous Free Derry Wall and explore murals that depict key moments of conflict and reconciliation. Perfect for those interested in understanding the Troubles through the eyes of someone who lived it.
This tour’s strength lies in its emotional depth and historical detail, making complex past events accessible and memorable.
Bottom Line: Richly detailed and deeply personal, it’s ideal for history buffs who want a nuanced view of Derry’s Troubles.
3. Derry: Derry Girls TV Show Filming Locations Tour
Number three is the Derry Girls TV Show Locations Tour, rated 5/5 by 65 fans. This 1.5-hour walk explores the spots featured in the popular Channel 4 comedy. Your guide shares behind-the-scenes stories, filming anecdotes, and local tales about Derry’s streets as seen on television. You’ll visit the famous President Address site and walk the streets where Erin, Michelle, Orla, and Clare grew up. This tour offers a lighthearted way to experience Derry’s streets, blending humor with local history. It’s perfect if you’re a fan of the show or want a fun, relaxed exploration of the city’s more modern side.
Guests mention Christian and Anita’s fun, engaging guide and the opportunity to see Derry through a pop culture lens.
Bottom Line: A lively, entertaining way to connect with local culture and the city’s TV fame.
4. Derry: McCrossan’s Public Walking Tour of the Historic City
Number four on our list is the McCrossan’s Public Walking Tour, which lasts about an hour. This tour offers a broad overview of Derry’s history, including the Siege of Derry, the Plantation, and the city’s role during World War II. Starting at 11 Carlisle Rd, it passes through the oldest building inside the walls, St. Columb’s Cathedral, and walks along the 400-year-old city walls—an excellent way to see the city from its historic ramparts. The guide is praised for his storytelling skills and clear historical explanations. This tour suits travelers wanting a quick, comprehensive city overview without a long commitment.
Reviewers emphasize the reasonable price and informative nature of the tour.
Bottom Line: A concise, well-rounded introduction to Derry’s long and complex history.
5. Derry/Londonderry: City Walls History Small Group Tours
Sitting at number five, this City Walls Small Group Tour limits groups to 15 people, making for a personal experience. Over 1.5 hours, you’ll walk the full circuit of the 405-year-old walls and hear the city’s 1500-year story. This tour covers the Troubles, the Derry Girls, historic sieges, and the ongoing peace process, all in a relaxed setting. The small group size means plenty of chances to ask questions and get personalized insights. It’s suitable for travelers who want an intimate, detailed exploration of Derry’s fortifications and history.
Reviewers appreciate the depth and the ability to ask questions comfortably.
Bottom Line: Best for those seeking a small-group experience with rich historical storytelling.
6. Derry City: The Bloody Sunday Story Walking Tour
Number six is the Bloody Sunday Story Walking Tour, rated 4.8/5. Guided by someone with a personal connection—someone who was there—this tour walks through the events on the day of the massacre and its aftermath. It’s a 1.5-hour tour that emphasizes empathy, understanding, and the emotional weight of the events. The guide’s first-hand experience makes this tour profoundly impactful, and the stories are shared with honesty and sensitivity. This experience is perfect for those who want to grasp the human side of political conflict.
Many reviews mention the powerful storytelling and the emotional impact.
Bottom Line: An intimate, heartfelt tour that helps you understand Bloody Sunday from a personal perspective.
7. Bogside Political Tour
The Bogside Political Tour is a brief, focused exploration of key murals and sites like the Free Derry Corner and the Bloody Sunday Memorial. Limited to 1.5 hours, it’s ideal for travelers short on time but eager for a concentrated political history. The tour offers insights into the murals’ meanings and the significance of the neighborhood’s murals. The guides use vivid descriptions to bring the political art alive, making it suitable for those interested in street art and political symbolism.
Reviews highlight the guide’s knowledge and the powerful experience of seeing the murals firsthand.
Bottom Line: Short but impactful, this tour is perfect for a quick dip into Derry’s political art and symbolism.
8. Derry: History and Politics Private City Walking Tour
Number eight offers a private experience tailored to your interests. This 2-hour tour visits the Bogside murals, Free Derry Corner, and walks along the city’s 400-year-old walls. Hosted by a local who grew up in Derry, it provides personal anecdotes and a deeper understanding of the city’s political landscape. It’s especially great if you prefer a flexible schedule and a personalized approach. The reviews mention the guide’s flexibility and detailed knowledge.
This tour suits those seeking a more intimate, customizable experience.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers wanting a private, in-depth exploration with local insights.
9. Derry/Londonderry: Cityside Darker History Walking Tours
Number nine ventures into the darker side of Derry’s past, with a Darker History Walking Tour. Lasting around 1.5 hours, it includes spooky stories, legends, and ghost tales from the city’s haunted corners. Perfect for night owls or those interested in supernatural tales, the tour shares stories of ghosts and legendary characters that haunt the city’s streets. It’s a fun, alternative way to see Derry and explore its less-visible stories.
Reviews praise the engaging storytelling and the eerie atmosphere.
Bottom Line: Great for night owls and those curious about ghost stories and legends.
10. Derry: City Walking Tour & Exploration Game
Number ten is the self-guided City Walking Tour & Exploration Game, which uses an app to turn sightseeing into an interactive challenge. Perfect for tech-savvy travelers or families, it offers puzzles and challenges that lead you through major landmarks and hidden corners. You can start at any time and go at your own pace, making it flexible for different schedules. Kids under 8 go free, making it a family-friendly option. The app-based format encourages discovery and engagement without the need for a large group.
Ideal for independent travelers who want fun and learning combined.
Bottom Line: An interactive, flexible way to explore Derry on your own terms.
11. Derry: Guided Derry Girls TV Show Public Tour
The Derry Girls Guided Tour ranks at number eleven. It’s a 1.5-hour guided walk through the Derry streets featured in the hit series. You’ll see the Derry Girls mural, Pump Street, and the city walls, learning about how the show connects to real Derry. This tour is perfect for fans of the show and those interested in modern pop culture’s connection to the city. It also offers insights into the city’s Catholic and Protestant communities.
Reviewers love the engaging guide and the chance to see Derry through the lens of its popular TV series.
Bottom Line: A fun, pop culture-focused tour for fans and curious travelers alike.
12. Derry/Londonderry: Cityside Street Art & Murals Walking Tours
Number twelve features a Street Art & Murals Tour. This tour covers political murals and non-political artworks along the west bank, including the Fountain and Bogside areas. It’s a longer experience, lasting from 1.5 to 4 hours, perfect if you want a comprehensive view of Derry’s street art scene. The murals narrate stories of conflict, peace, and everyday life, making the city’s visual art an open-air gallery. It’s great for art lovers, street art fans, and those wanting a more relaxed, visual experience.
Reviews mention the guide’s knowledge and the opportunity to see a wide range of murals.
Bottom Line: An extensive walk through Derry’s street art, ideal for art and history enthusiasts.
13. Complete city tour of Derry
Finally, the Complete City Tour is a comprehensive 2-hour exploration covering everything from murals to the 17th-century walls and the Guildhall. Led by an experienced guide, David, the tour balances historic sites with modern sights, offering a well-rounded experience. It’s perfect if you want a thorough overview without multiple stops or longer commitments. Travelers appreciate the clarity and professionalism of the guide.
This tour is a good choice for first-time visitors looking to get a complete snapshot of Derry.
Bottom Line: An all-in-one introduction suitable for those wanting to cover a lot of ground efficiently.
How to Choose the Best Tour in Londonderry Derry
When picking your ideal tour, consider your interests and how deep you want to go. If you’re keen to understand Bloody Sunday from personal stories, the Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour is a must. For those wanting a broader overview, the McCrossan’s Public Walking Tour offers a quick, comprehensive intro. Culture lovers and TV fans should check out the Derry Girls TV Show Tour.
If you prefer a private experience or small groups, the Private City Walking Tour or the Small Group Walls Tour are excellent choices. Budget travelers might appreciate the Self-Guided Exploration Game, perfect for flexible schedules.
In general, booking early helps secure your preferred time, especially in peak seasons. Be clear about how much history, culture, or lighthearted fun you want—then pick your perfect tour.
Londonderry Derry offers a wide range of experiences, from moving historical walks to playful TV-site explorations. For history-rich insights, the Bloody Sunday Tour and the Troubles Tour stand out as top choices. For a more relaxed, fun approach, the Derry Girls Tour offers a lighthearted glimpse of the city’s pop culture. And those wanting a comprehensive, all-around look might prefer the Complete City Tour. No matter your interest, early planning will ensure you make the most of your visit to this fascinating city.