Londonderry Derry is a city that wears its history on its streets. It’s a place where every corner, mural, and fortification tells a story—whether of conflict, peace, or pop culture. For travelers seeking authentic insights, this city offers a variety of tours that go beyond the usual. We particularly love the Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour for its powerful storytelling, and the Derry Girls TV Show Locations Tour for its fun, behind-the-scenes look at the city’s role in pop culture. These tours stand out because they combine history and entertainment, giving you a well-rounded experience of Derry’s many faces.
Whether you’re interested in deep political history, exploring local art, walking the historic city walls, or even solving puzzles with a self-guided game, Derry has something to satisfy your curiosity. The list below highlights 13 of the best options, each with unique features, practical details, and honest reviews to help you choose what suits your style.
1. Derry: Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour
Explore the Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour for a deeply moving look at one of Northern Ireland’s most pivotal moments. This 1.5-hour walk takes you through the Bogside neighborhood, where the murals vividly depict the struggles and hopes of the community. The guide shares personal stories and detailed accounts of the 1972 massacre, giving context to the powerful visual art that adorns the streets. Highlights include the Bloody Sunday monument and a closer look at the murals, which have become symbols of resistance and memory. The guide’s personal connection and knowledge make this tour stand out, with many reviewers praising Gleann for his engaging storytelling. This tour is ideal for those wanting an emotional, authentic experience that brings history to life.
Bottom Line: A compelling tour for history lovers, especially those interested in the civil rights movement and poignant artwork.
2. Derry City: The Troubles Bogside Walking Tour
At number 2, this Troubles Bogside Walking Tour offers an intimate look at the conflict that shaped modern Derry. Starting at the Museum of Free Derry, it immerses you in stories of the Civil Rights movement, Bloody Sunday, the Battle of the Bogside, and the Irish Peace Process. The 1.5-hour route takes you to significant sites like the Free Derry Wall, where murals tell stories of struggle and hope. Tour guide Noel, with his emotional and detailed narration, makes the history resonate deeply. Reviewers appreciate how personal and impactful the stories are, especially given the guide’s own connection to the events. It’s perfect for those wanting a comprehensive yet heartfelt account of the Troubles.
Bottom Line: An emotionally powerful tour that provides a personal perspective on Derry’s turbulent history.
3. Derry: Derry Girls TV Show Filming Locations Tour
Fans of the hit Channel 4 series Derry Girls will love this Filming Locations Tour. In 1.5 hours, you’ll visit the streets and sites where the show was filmed, including the iconic murals and the places where Erin, Michelle, Orla, and Clare grew up. Your guide shares fun anecdotes and behind-the-scenes stories, making this a lively and lighthearted exploration of Derry’s pop culture. Guests consistently praise the guide’s knowledge and humor, with some saying it’s a highlight of their trip. It’s ideal for fans of the show or those wanting a different, less serious perspective on the city’s life today.
Bottom Line: A fun, engaging way to see Derry through the lens of its most beloved TV series, perfect for fans and families alike.
4. Derry: McCrossan’s Public Walking Tour of the Historic City
For about an hour, McCrossan’s Public Walking Tour offers a broad overview of Derry’s 400-year history. Starting at 11 Carlisle Rd, the 70-minute walk covers key sites like St Columb’s Cathedral, the city walls, and the role Derry played during WWII and the Siege. Guides share stories that blend history, politics, and personal insights, making complex events accessible. Reviewers often mention the guide Mickey’s knowledge and friendly manner. This tour is well-suited for first-time visitors who want a solid introduction without feeling rushed. It’s a great value for the depth of information packed into a short walk.
Bottom Line: Ideal for newcomers wanting a concise, friendly introduction to Derry’s storied past.
5. Derry/Londonderry: City Walls History Walking Experiences
The City Walls History Walking Experience lets you walk a full circuit of the 405-year-old walls, with options for private or small group tours. Spanning 1.5 to 4 hours, it’s perfect for those who want a more comprehensive, customizable experience. You’ll learn about Derry’s 1500-year history, including sieges, the Troubles, and the peace process, all while soaking in views from the top of the walls. Reviewers highlight the balanced perspective and engaging guide David. The tour’s political neutrality makes it suitable for visitors interested in history without bias.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers wanting an in-depth, flexible tour of the city’s defenses and history.
6. Derry City: The Bloody Sunday Story Walking Tour
This Bloody Sunday Story Tour focuses tightly on the events of November 1972. Over 1.5 hours, a guide walks you through the streets of Bogside, recounting the day’s events, their aftermath, and the ongoing quest for justice. The guide’s firsthand experience adds emotional weight, making the story resonate deeply. Reviewers talk about the impact of the personal stories, with many noting the empathetic presentation. It’s suited for those keen on understanding the detailed sequence of events and the ongoing legacy.
Bottom Line: A poignant, personal account of Bloody Sunday, recommended for history buffs and those wanting a heartfelt connection.
7. Bogside Political Tour
The Bogside Political Tour offers a focused visit to murals, Free Derry Corner, and the Bloody Sunday Memorial. Lasting around 1.5 hours, it provides a political perspective on the murals that decorate the neighborhood. The tour is highly rated for its powerful storytelling and detailed explanations, even for visitors familiar with the conflict. It’s a straightforward way to understand the symbolism behind the street art and monuments.
Bottom Line: A compact, meaningful political tour ideal for visitors interested in the symbolism of protest art.
8. Derry: Peacemakers Museum Entry Ticket
For a self-guided experience, the Peacemakers Museum offers a deep dive into Derry’s peace process through engaging exhibits and audio stories. Costing around $11, it allows you to explore at your own pace through multimedia displays, replica cells, and personal stories from those involved. It’s perfect for those who want a flexible, educational experience about the transformation from conflict to peace.
Bottom Line: A valuable, affordable museum visit for self-guided reflection on Derry’s peace journey.
9. Derry: History and Politics Private City Walking Tour
This Private City Walking Tour offers a more personalized look at Derry’s history and politics over 2 hours. Visiting sites like the Bogside murals and Free Derry Corner, the guide provides detailed insights based on your interests. Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and depth of knowledge, especially from guides who grew up in Derry. It’s suited for travelers wanting a tailored, immersive experience with an expert.
Bottom Line: Great for those seeking a customized tour with detailed local insights.
10. Derry/Londonderry: Darker History Private Group Tours
For something a bit spooky, the Darker History Tour explores ghost stories, legends, and haunted sites across the city. Lasting about 90-105 minutes, it’s perfect for night owls or those interested in the city’s darker tales. Reviewers say it’s a fun, engaging way to learn about Derry’s haunted past while walking on the city’s historic streets.
Bottom Line: Suitable for those curious about ghost stories and the city’s spooky side, especially after dark.
11. Derry/Londonderry: Attractions Pass
If you want to see many of Derry’s highlights, the Attractions Pass grants access to 10 sites over 1 or 2 days. It’s a cost-effective way to visit key museums, the city walls, and other landmarks without paying at each location. Reviewers note the pass is a good value, especially for families or those planning a busy schedule.
Bottom Line: Best for travelers who want to maximize sightseeing with a flexible, all-in-one ticket.
12. Derry: City Walking Tour & Exploration Game
For a modern twist, the City Walking Tour & Exploration Game combines an app-based scavenger hunt with city sightseeing. You solve puzzles and complete challenges at landmarks, making it perfect for families and tech-savvy explorers. It’s available all year and allows you to set your own pace, with up to 5 people per booking. Reviewers love the fun, interactive nature and the opportunity to learn about Derry’s history while playing.
Bottom Line: Great for families or groups seeking a flexible, interactive experience.
13. Derry: Guided Derry Girls TV Show Public Tour
Finally, the Derry Girls Guided Tour takes you through the city’s TV locations, including the mural, Pump Street, and the city walls, with a focus on the show’s backdrop. Lasting 1.5 hours, it’s perfect for fans who want to see the sights from the series and learn about its filming. The guide provides insight into the show’s background and how it reflects Derry’s character. Reviewers find it engaging and fun, especially for those familiar with the series.
Bottom Line: A lively tour that combines pop culture with local sights, ideal for fans of Derry Girls or casual observers.
How to Choose the Right Tour in Derry
When deciding which tour to take, consider your interests, time, and budget. If you want an emotional connection to the city’s Troubles, Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour or Troubles Bogside Walking Tour are excellent options. For a lighter, entertaining experience, the Derry Girls TV Locations Tour offers fun insights into pop culture.
If you’re interested in a panoramic overview, the City Walls Experience provides a comprehensive circuit, while the Self-Guided City Quest is perfect for tech-savvy explorers. Budget-conscious travelers may find the Attractions Pass offers excellent value, especially if you plan multiple site visits.
Booking early is advisable, especially in peak season, to secure your preferred time slots. Many tours have limited group sizes or special features like private guides, so plan ahead for a smooth experience.
Final Thoughts
Derry offers a rich mix of experiences that cater to history buffs, culture vultures, TV fans, and those craving a spooky story. For a powerful, personal account, the Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour is a must. For a fun, pop culture-focused outing, the Derry Girls TV Show Locations Tour stands out. And for those who want to explore the city on their own terms, self-guided options like the City Walk & Exploration Game offer flexibility and fun.
No matter your interest, early planning will ensure you get the most out of Derry’s diverse offerings. Pick a tour that fits your curiosity, schedule, and budget, and enjoy discovering this city’s many layers—each with its own story.