Derry: Derry Girls TV Show Filming Locations Tour
Hightlight
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English-Speaking
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Group-Friendly
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Local guide
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Non smoking
History
Derry, or Londonderry, is a historic city in Northern Ireland, renowned as the only fully walled city in Ireland and Britain, with its 17th-century walls standing as a testament to its storied past. The city played a significant role during The Troubles (1960s–1998), a period of conflict that forms the backdrop for the hit comedy series Derry Girls, which humorously captures the lives of teenagers growing up in the 1990s amid the tail end of this turbulent era.
Derry Girls, created by Lisa McGee and first aired in 2018, has become a global phenomenon for its sharp wit and heartfelt portrayal of life in Derry during a time of social and political change. The show’s filming locations, scattered across the city’s iconic landmarks and neighborhoods, reflect Derry’s unique blend of humor, resilience, and history, making this tour a delightful mix of pop culture and historical insight.
Highlights
- Visit iconic Derry Girls filming locations like Bishop’s Gate and the Derry Girls mural
- See where President Bill Clinton addressed Derry’s people in 1995
- Explore Derry’s historic walled city while reliving scenes from the comedy series
- Stop at Pump Street to learn about cream horns and cream fingers
- Enjoy a fun, guided tour blending Derry Girls trivia with Derry’s rich history
Full Description
Join a lively 1.5-hour walking tour through Derry’s historic streets, immersing yourself in the world of Derry Girls, the beloved comedy series set in the 1990s. Starting at the Tower Museum on Union Hall Place, your English-speaking guide—well-versed in both the show and Derry’s history—will lead you through the city’s iconic walled area, blending fun facts from the series with insights into the city’s past, including its role in The Troubles and the peace process.
Visit key filming locations such as Bishop’s Gate, featured in memorable Derry Girls scenes, and the vibrant Derry Girls mural, a tribute to Erin, Michelle, Orla, Clare, and James. Stop at Long Tower Church and the grand Guildhall, both backdrop to the show’s antics, and pause at Pump Street to learn the difference between a cream horn and a cream finger, with an optional chance to try one at a local bakery. Along the way, your guide will share stories of Derry’s history, including the significance of President Bill Clinton’s 1995 speech, which marked a pivotal moment in the city’s journey toward peace.
This tour offers a perfect mix of laughter and learning, appealing to Derry Girls fans and history enthusiasts alike. With moderate walking, including steps and inclines, you’ll explore Derry’s charming streets while reliving the show’s funniest moments and gaining a deeper appreciation for the city’s resilience and cultural heritage.
Why Choose This Experience?
This tour is a must for Derry Girls fans and travelers seeking a unique blend of pop culture and history. Led by local guides with a passion for the show and Derry’s story, it offers an entertaining yet insightful look at the city through the lens of a global TV phenomenon, making it perfect for both visitors and those familiar with Northern Ireland’s past.
The compact 1.5-hour duration and central Derry locations make it an easy addition to any itinerary, while the mix of Derry Girls trivia, local treats like cream horns, and historical context ensures a fun, memorable experience. Whether you’re a fan of the show’s humor or curious about Derry’s journey through The Troubles, this tour delivers a joyful and meaningful adventure.
What’s Included
- Guided walking tour of Derry Girls filming locations
- Expert local guide sharing show trivia and Derry history
Itinerary
- Meet at the Tower Museum, Union Hall Place
- Visit Bishop’s Gate, a key Derry Girls filming location
- Stop at the Derry Girls mural for photos
- Explore Long Tower Church and Guildhall, featured in the show
- Pause at Pump Street to learn about cream horns and cream fingers (optional tasting)
- Learn about President Clinton’s 1995 speech and Derry’s role in The Troubles
- Conclude at the Tower Museum
Pricing
From $35 per person
Meeting Point
Meet at the Tower Museum, Union Hall Place, Derry, BT48 6LU. Look for your guide outside the museum entrance.
How to Get There
- By Foot: The Tower Museum is a 5-minute walk from Derry’s city center or Guildhall via Union Hall Place.
- By Bus: Ulsterbus or Translink buses (e.g., routes 2A, 2B) stop at Foyle Street, a 3-minute walk from the museum.
- By Train: Derry-Londonderry Railway Station is a 10-minute walk or short taxi ride to the meeting point.
- By Car: Park at Foyle Valley Railway Car Park (Foyle Rd, BT48 6UL) or Bishop Street Car Park, both within a 5-minute walk.
Good to Know
What to Bring
- Comfortable shoes for walking, including steps and inclines
- Weather-appropriate clothing (Derry’s weather can be rainy or changeable)
- Cash for optional cream horn or cream finger purchase
- Camera for photos at the Derry Girls mural and other sites
Know Before You Go
- Dress for Irish weather, as the tour operates rain or shine.
- The tour involves moderate walking with several steps and inclines, suitable for most fitness levels.
- Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
- The “reserve now, pay later” option allows flexible booking without upfront payment.
- The tour is conducted in English only, with no audio guides available.
- Content includes light references to The Troubles, which may be sensitive for some.
Reviews
- Fun tour! Our guide was hilarious and knew so much about Derry Girls. Loved the mural!
- Amazing experience! The mix of show facts and Derry history was perfect. Highly recommend!
- Brilliant tour! Angela’s stories and humor made it a trip highlight. Great for fans!
Maps
Video
FAQ's
What is the duration and structure of the Derry Girls Filming Locations Tour?
This 1.5-hour walking tour starts and ends at the Tower Museum, guiding you through Derry’s walled city to explore Derry Girls filming locations like Bishop’s Gate, Long Tower Church, Guildhall, and the Derry Girls mural. Your guide shares show trivia, such as the cream horn vs. cream finger debate at Pump Street, alongside Derry’s history, including The Troubles and Clinton’s 1995 speech. The compact format includes moderate walking with steps and inclines, making it engaging and manageable. Check start times when booking to fit your Derry itinerary, with time to explore nearby sites afterward.
Is the tour suitable for Derry Girls fans who don’t know much about Derry’s history?
Absolutely, the tour is designed for Derry Girls fans of all backgrounds, requiring no prior knowledge of Derry’s history. The guide weaves show-specific trivia with accessible explanations of the city’s past, including The Troubles and the peace process, making it both entertaining and educational. Fans will love seeing iconic locations like the Derry Girls mural, while newcomers to Derry’s story gain context through lighthearted storytelling. The tour’s fun tone suits all ages, though younger children may need parental guidance for historical references, ensuring a welcoming experience for global visitors.
Can I cancel or modify my booking if plans change?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for travelers adjusting their Northern Ireland plans, perfect for those combining Derry with Belfast or Giant’s Causeway visits. The “reserve now, pay later” option lets you book without immediate payment, ideal for fluid itineraries. Modifications, like changing tour times, depend on availability—contact the operator via your booking confirmation email for assistance. Always review cancellation terms at booking to ensure compliance, as Derry’s popularity can mean quick-filling tours, especially for Derry Girls fans.
Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves moderate walking with several steps and inclines, which may challenge those with mobility issues, particularly on Derry’s historic streets and at sites like Bishop’s Gate. While not explicitly wheelchair accessible, the route is mostly on paved surfaces, and the guide can adjust pacing if notified in advance—contact the operator to discuss specific needs. Comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate clothing are essential due to Derry’s changeable weather and uneven terrain. Those with mobility concerns should assess the itinerary to ensure a comfortable experience, with the operator available for tailored advice.
What makes this tour different from other Derry walking tours?
This tour uniquely combines Derry Girls fandom with Derry’s historical narrative, focusing on filming locations like the Derry Girls mural and Pump Street, which aren’t typically covered in standard city tours. Led by local guides passionate about the show and Derry’s past, it offers exclusive show trivia—like the cream horn debate—alongside insights into The Troubles and the 1995 Clinton speech, blending humor with poignant history. Its 1.5-hour duration and fan-focused approach make it distinct from broader historical tours, appealing to pop culture enthusiasts and history buffs alike, with a chance to taste local treats adding a fun, immersive touch.
