Derry: McCrossan’s Public Walking Tour of the Historic City

History

Derry, also known as Londonderry, is one of Ireland’s oldest continuously inhabited cities, with roots dating back to the 6th century when St. Columba founded a monastery. Its 17th-century city walls, built between 1613 and 1618 during the Plantation of Ulster, remain intact, making Derry the only completely walled city in Ireland. These 400-year-old fortifications withstood the 1689 Siege of Derry, a pivotal event in Irish history where the city held out against Jacobite forces for 105 days, shaping its identity as a symbol of resilience.

Derry played a significant role in World War II as a key Allied naval base, notably during the Battle of the Atlantic. The city’s modern history is marked by the Troubles, particularly the tragic events of Bloody Sunday in 1972, when 14 unarmed civilians were killed by British soldiers in the Bogside area, an event immortalized in murals and memorials. The city’s vibrant marching traditions, led by groups like the Apprentice Boys, and its religious landmarks, such as St. Columb’s Cathedral (built 1628–1633), reflect its complex cultural and political tapestry. This tour offers a deep dive into Derry’s layered past, from its monastic origins to its modern peace-building efforts.

Highlights

• Walk atop Derry’s 400-year-old city walls, Ireland’s only fully intact walled city
• Visit St. Columb’s Cathedral, the oldest building within the walls
• Explore the city’s role in World War II and the 1689 Siege of Derry
• Learn about Bloody Sunday and modern political history in the Bogside
• See vibrant murals and hear about the Apprentice Boys’ marching traditions

Full Description

Embark on a 1-hour guided walking tour of Derry, starting outside Level 4 of Foyleside Shopping Centre at 11 Carlisle Road, where your English-speaking guide awaits by the McCrossan’s banner. Recognized as Tourism NI’s only 5-star tour, this wheelchair-accessible journey takes you through the heart of Derry’s historic walled city, offering a rich narrative of its past and present.

Stroll along the iconic 400-year-old city walls, built during the Plantation of Ulster, and visit St. Columb’s Cathedral, the city’s oldest building (1628–1633), alongside other religious landmarks like St. Eugene’s Cathedral, St. Columba’s Long Tower, St. Augustine’s, and First Derry Presbyterian Church. Your guide will share stories of Derry’s history, from its monastic founding and the Siege of Derry to its role as a WWII naval base. Explore the city’s emigration patterns and the cultural significance of the Apprentice Boys’ marching traditions.

Venture to the Bogside, viewing its famous murals and learning about Bloody Sunday (1972) and Derry’s modern political history during the Troubles. The tour concludes at The Diamond, Derry’s central square, leaving you with a profound understanding of the city’s resilience, cultural vibrancy, and path toward peace. This concise yet comprehensive tour is perfect for history enthusiasts and first-time visitors alike.

Why Choose This Experience?

This tour is ideal for history buffs, cultural explorers, and travelers seeking an authentic introduction to Derry’s complex past. At just $11, it’s one of the most affordable ways to experience Derry’s UNESCO-worthy heritage, with a 5-star Tourism NI rating ensuring quality. The wheelchair-accessible route and 1-hour duration make it inclusive and easy to fit into any itinerary, while the guide’s engaging storytelling brings to life Derry’s 1,500-year history, from monastic roots to modern peace efforts.

Unlike longer regional tours, this focuses solely on Derry’s walled city and nearby Bogside, offering an intimate, on-foot perspective. The inclusion of pivotal events like the Siege of Derry, WWII contributions, and Bloody Sunday, alongside cultural elements like murals and marching traditions, makes it a uniquely comprehensive experience for understanding Derry’s identity and resilience.

What’s Included

• 1-hour guided public walking tour
• English-speaking guide
• History of the Plantation, Siege of Derry, WWII, and modern political events
• Views of Bogside murals and insights into Bloody Sunday
• Walk on Derry’s 400-year-old city walls
• Stories of the Apprentice Boys and marching traditions

Itinerary

• Meet outside Level 4, Foyleside Shopping Centre, 11 Carlisle Road
• Walk along Derry’s 400-year-old city walls
• Visit St. Columb’s Cathedral and other religious landmarks
• Explore the Bogside, viewing murals and learning about Bloody Sunday
• Hear about the Siege of Derry, WWII, and Apprentice Boys traditions
• Conclude at The Diamond, Derry BT48

Pricing

From $11 per person

Meeting Point

Meet outside Level 4 of Foyleside Shopping Centre, 11 Carlisle Road, Derry, BT48 6JJ, at the McCrossan’s banner. Arrive 10 minutes early.

How to Get There

• By Foot: The meeting point is a 5-minute walk from Derry’s city center or The Diamond.
• By Bus: Translink buses (e.g., routes 2A, 2B, or 212) stop at Foyleside Shopping Centre or nearby Foyle Street, a 2-minute walk.
• By Train: Derry~Londonderry Station, served by NI Railways, is a 10-minute walk to the meeting point.
• By Car: Park at Foyleside Shopping Centre Car Park (BT48 6XY), adjacent to the meeting point; limited street parking available.

Good to Know

What to Bring

• Weather-appropriate clothing (tour operates rain or shine)
• Comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestones and walls
• Camera for capturing murals and city views

Know Before You Go

• Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
• The “reserve now, pay later” option allows booking without upfront payment.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, but contact the operator for specific needs, as some areas (e.g., city walls) may have steps or uneven surfaces.
• The tour is in English only, with no audio guides or translations.
• Alcohol, drugs, and audio recording are not allowed.
• Arrive 10 minutes early to ensure a prompt start.
• The tour covers sensitive topics like Bloody Sunday; content may be emotional for some.

Reviews

• Fantastic tour! John’s heartfelt and knowledgeable delivery was inspiring. Highly recommend!
• Very informative and engaging! The guide spoke quickly, but it kept us on our toes. Great experience!
• Excellent tour! The guide’s storytelling made Derry’s history come alive. A must-do!