Derry City Guide

Derry is located in the northwest of Northern Ireland on the banks of the River Foyle. It is the second largest city in Northern Ireland and the fourth largest city on the island of Ireland. It is 70 miles (112km) from Belfast and benefits from good transport links including main roads and an airport.



Derry is the main population centre in the north west of Ireland and plays a significant role in the region's business sector. It is a popular shopping destination for people from the surrounding counties as well as having a strong student population, centred around the Mageee campus of the University of Ulster. The region is also popular with tourists, with people visiting locations from the north coast of Northern Ireland through the rugged terrain of Donegal to the Atlantic Ocean. Derry is not only the centre of this tourism activity in the north west region, it is also one of the key destinations itself.

It is a city steeped in history, both old and modern. The area traces its roots back to the 6th century, although it did not start enjoying a significant population until the 11th or 12th centuries. By the 17th century there was a proper city, entirely contained within walls which are still intact. In fact, Derry is the only completely intact walled city in Ireland or the UK today. Derry is much more than its walls, however, as it now spans a huge area on both sides of the River Foyle, connected by three bridges.

More recently, Derry's history has been dominated not only by its changing economy and landscape, but also by the part it has played in the years of conflict in Ireland. Even its name is contentious, with some people in Northern Ireland referring to it as Londonderry, while others call it Derry.

Today, however, it is a city that is moving forward. It is vibrant, modern and youthful. There is a very strong cultural and creative scene, with museums, live music and art. Many events take place in the city throughout the year including festivals and concerts, all of which attract visitors from all over Ireland and the world. It is also a popular business location, as well as being popular for city breaks, weddings and shopping trips. Many conferences take place in the city and people even come to find out more about the city's difficult past. Tours explaining the conflict and its impact on Derry are very popular.