DESTINATION: Ireland’s county Derry

County Derry outside Derry City, offers a rich tapestry of rugged coastlines, historic sites, and vibrant rural communities within Ireland’s scenic northwest. Part of the Causeway Coastal Route and close to the Wild Atlantic Way, the county boasts dramatic beaches, ancient forts, and charming towns like Limavady and Coleraine, all steeped in a history shaped by Saint Colmcille’s 6th-century monastery, the 17th-century Plantation of Ulster, and the Troubles. Its landscapes, from the Sperrin Mountains to Benone Strand, provide a backdrop for outdoor adventures and cultural exploration. In 2026, new festivals, enhanced trails, and eco-friendly initiatives elevate the county’s appeal, building on its reputation as a gateway to both natural beauty and historical depth. Derry is Ireland’s 15th largest county by size (2,067 square km) and largest by population (252,231).

Towns and Villages:

Limavady: A market town 25 km east of Derry City, known as the home of the 1851 tune Derry Air (later Danny Boy). Visit the Roe Valley Arts and Cultural Centre for exhibitions and performances (€5–€15). The town’s Main Street features Georgian architecture and pubs like the itionalerry Arms, hosting trad music sessions.
Coleraine: A university town 45 km northeast, straddling the River Bann. The Riverside Theatre offers plays and concerts (€10–€30), while the Coleraine Town Hall, a 19th-century landmark, hosts free historical exhibits. The town is a gateway to the Causeway Coast.
Magilligan: A coastal village 30 km north, near Magilligan Point, with a Martello Tower from the Napoleonic era (free exterior viewing). It’s a quiet base for exploring Benone Strand and the ferry to Greencastle, Donegal.
Dungiven: A small town 30 km southeast, home to the 13th-century Dungiven Priory, a ruined Augustinian site with a well-preserved tomb effigy (free). The town’s Flax Mill Museum showcases linen-making history (€4 adults).
Portstewart: A seaside resort 50 km northeast, with a Victorian promenade and the Flowerfield Arts Centre, offering pottery workshops (€20–€50).

Historical Sites:

Downhill Demesne and Mussenden Temple: Near Castlerock, 45 km northeast, this National Trust site features the 18th-century ruins of Bishop Hervey’s mansion and the cliff-edge Mussenden Temple, inspired by Rome’s Temple of Vesta (€7 adults). The site offers sweeping views of the Atlantic.
Mountsandel Fort: Near Coleraine, a Mesolithic site from 7000 BC, one of Ireland’s oldest human settlements. Free to visit, with interpretive panels detailing hunter-gatherer life.
Banagher Old Church: Near Dungiven, a 12th-century ruin tied to Saint Muiredach O’Heney, with a carved tombstone and serene glen setting (free).
Bellaghy Bawn: In Bellaghy, 50 km southeast, this 17th-century Plantation castle houses a museum dedicated to poet Seamus Heaney, featuring his manuscripts and Nobel Prize exhibit (€5 adults).
Magilligan Prison Museum: At Magilligan Point, this museum within a former internment camp offers guided tours of its military and penal history (€6 adults, weekends only).
Cultural Heritage: County Derry’s history spans Saint Colmcille’s influence, the Plantation of Ulster (1610s), and the 1688–89 Siege of Derry, with rural areas reflecting both Gaelic and planter legacies. The Troubles left a mark, particularly in border areas, but communities now emphasize reconciliation. Traditional music thrives in pubs like Limavady’s Corner Bar or Coleraine’s Anchor Bar, while the annual Danny Boy Festival in Limavady (August) celebrates local culture with music and storytelling.

Natural Attractions

Benone Strand: A 7-mile Blue Flag beach near Limavady, 30 km north, framed by Lough Foyle and Benevenagh Mountain. Ideal for walks, kite surfing, and views of Mussenden Temple on clear days. Parking is €5, with free access to the beach.
Benevenagh Mountain: A 385-meter basalt cliff near Limavady, offering a 3-hour hike with panoramic views of Lough Foyle and Donegal. Free, with a trailhead at Benevenagh Forest car park.
Sperrin Mountains: Stretching across southeast County Derry, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty features hikes like the 6 km Carntogher trail (free) and cycling routes through heather-clad hills.
Ness Country Park: Near Kilrea, 50 km southeast, a 55-hectare park with waterfalls, woodlands, and the 7 km Ness Wood trail (free). It’s a haven for birdwatching and family picnics.
Roe Valley Country Park: Near Limavady, a 3 km riverside trail past historic flax mills and weirs, with fishing and canoeing options (free entry, €10–€20 for activities).
Portstewart Strand: A 2-mile National Trust beach with dunes and surf-friendly waves (€7 parking).

Outdoor and Active Pursuits

Hiking: The Sperrins offer trails like Sawel Mountain (678 m, 4 hours) and the Ulster Way, while coastal paths at Downhill Demesne connect to Mussenden Temple. Roe Valley Country Park’s trails suit families.
Cycling: The North Sperrins Greenway links Dungiven to Limavady (20 km, free), part of Derry’s 100 km greenway network. Bike rentals in Coleraine cost €15/day.
Water Sports: Benone Strand and Portstewart Strand are kite-surfing and paddleboarding hubs (€30–€50 lessons). Canoeing on the River Roe is available through Roe Valley Country Park (€20/hour).
Golf: Portstewart Golf Club’s Strand Course, host of the 2017 Irish Open, is a world-class links (€200/round). Castlerock Golf Club offers scenic fairways (€100/round).
Fishing: The River Bann near Coleraine and Lough Foyle are salmon and trout hotspots (€20–€50 permits).

Food and Drink

Dining: Limavady’s So:Bar & Eatery serves local seafood and beef (€15–€25 mains), while Coleraine’s Lost and Found offers farm-to-table dishes (€12–€20). Portstewart’s Amici Ristorante is known for Italian fare (€15–€25).
Markets: Limavady’s Roe Valley Farmers’ Market (first Saturday monthly, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.) and Coleraine’s Causeway Speciality Market (second Saturday, 9 a.m.–4 p.m.) offer local cheeses, seafood, and baked goods.
Distilleries: Bushmills Distillery, 55 km northeast, produces world-famous whiskey with tours (€15 adults).

Accessibility and Sustainability

Getting There: City of Derry Airport (LDY, 10 km from Derry City) serves London, Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Liverpool (new routes from November 2024). Belfast International (BFS, 100 km) and Dublin (DUB, 220 km) are alternatives, with Aircoach buses to Derry (€20–€30). Translink trains from Belfast to Coleraine take 1.5 hours (€12), and buses (e.g., 134 to Limavady) cost €5–€10.
Getting Around: A rental car is ideal for rural areas, as buses (e.g., Translink 146 to Coleraine) are infrequent. Local Link services run 1–2 times weekly in remote areas. Cycling is viable on greenways, and ferries from Magilligan to Greencastle, Donegal, resume in 2026 (€10 return).
Sustainability: County Derry promotes eco-tourism through greenways, Blue Flag beaches, and local-sourcing eateries. The Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council supports carbon-neutral festivals and trail maintenance.

What’s New for 2026 in County Derry (Outside Derry City)

Danny Boy Festival Expansion (August 6–10, 2026): Limavady’s annual festival grows with new outdoor concerts at Roe Valley Country Park, featuring Irish trad and folk acts, alongside storytelling tours of Derry Air’s origins. Free street events and ticketed performances (€10–€30) draw 10,000+ visitors.
Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust Trails: In 2026, new interpretive signage and digital guides enhance trails like Benevenagh and Ness Country Park, funded by the Heritage Trust, promoting conservation and local history (free access).
Magilligan Ferry Resumption: The Greencastle-Magilligan ferry, connecting County Derry to Donegal’s Inishowen Peninsula, resumes full service in 2026 after upgrades, offering a scenic 15-minute crossing (€10 return, April–September).
The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush (July 13–20, 2026): Held 50 km northeast in County Antrim, this golf championship significantly boosts County Derry’s tourism. Limavady and Coleraine serve as accommodation hubs, with shuttle buses (€10–€20) and visitor packages linking to local attractions like Downhill Demesne. Tickets range from €50–€200.
Roe Valley Eco-Festival (June 14–15, 2026): A new Limavady event focusing on sustainable living, with workshops on foraging, renewable energy, and local crafts at Roe Valley Country Park. Free entry, with paid activities (€5–€20).
Seamus Heaney HomePlace Events: Bellaghy’s Heaney museum introduces 2026 poetry workshops and guided walks inspired by the poet’s Sperrins landscapes, running monthly (€15–€30).
Blue Flag Beach Initiatives: Benone and Portstewart Strands maintain Blue Flag status, with 2026 beach cleanup programs and eco-tours led by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council (free–€10).

Practical Tips for Visitors

Best Time to Visit: May–June for mild weather (10–18°C) and the Roe Valley Eco-Festival; July for The Open; August for the Danny Boy Festival; October for autumn colors and fewer crowds. Winter (December–February) is wet but quiet, ideal for indoor museums.
Accommodation: Book early for The Open and Danny Boy Festival. Options include The Lodge Hotel in Coleraine (€80–€150/night), Drummond Hotel in Limavady (€60–€120), or B&Bs like Roe Park Resort (€50–€100). Camping at Benone Strand costs €20–€30/night.
Local Cuisine: Try seafood chowder, Ulster fry, or local cheeses at Limavady’s So:Bar or Coleraine’s Lost and Found. Sample Bushmills whiskey at pubs like the Anchor Bar.
Safety: Rural Derry is safe, but drive cautiously on narrow roads. Check tide times for Benone Strand (e.g., March 9–12, 2026, for high tides) and weather for Sperrins hikes.
Language: English dominates, with a Derry accent. Irish appears in cultural settings, like “Doire” (Derry).

County Derry outside Derry City in 2026 offers a captivating blend of natural beauty and historical depth. Visitors can stroll Benone Strand, explore Downhill Demesne’s Mussenden Temple, or delve into Seamus Heaney’s legacy in Bellaghy, all while enjoying trad music in Limavady’s pubs. The Sperrins and Roe Valley beckon adventurers, and coastal towns like Coleraine and Portstewart charm with their heritage. New for 2026, the expanded Danny Boy Festival, Roe Valley Eco-Festival, and enhanced trails, alongside The Open’s tourism boost and the Magilligan ferry’s return, enrich the experience. Accessible via City of Derry Airport or regional buses, County Derry’s rural gems promise an authentic Irish adventure

Derry City

Derry is Ireland’s sixth-largest city and the only completely intact walled city on the island of Ireland. Located on the banks of the River Foyle, it’s a vibrant, compact destination steeped in history, culture, and a warm, witty charm, earning it the nickname “LegenDerry.” Famous for its 17th-century city walls, its role in the Troubles, and as the setting for the hit TV show Derry Girls, the city offers a unique blend of heritage and modern vibrancy. Positioned where the Wild Atlantic Way meets the Causeway Coastal Route, Derry is a gateway to stunning coastal and mountain landscapes. In 2026, new festivals, enhanced attractions, and sustainable tourism initiatives make it an even more compelling destination. Derry is Ireland’s 15th largest county by size (2,067 square km) and largest by population (252,231).

Cultural and Historical Experiences

City Walls: Derry’s defining feature, these 1.5 km, 400-year-old walls, built in 1613–1619 by The Honourable The Irish Society, are among Europe’s finest, earning a Tripadvisor Travellers’ Choice Award in 2023. Walk the promenade (free, dawn to dusk) to see seven gates (Bishop’s, Ferryquay, Butcher, Shipquay, and three added later) and cannons like “Roaring Meg,” used during the 1688–89 Siege of Derry. The walls offer views of the Renaissance-style street plan and the Bogside neighborhood, with guided tours (€5–€10) detailing the Plantation of Ulster and the siege.
Bogside and Murals: The Bogside, a historically Catholic area, is home to the People’s Gallery, 12 large-scale murals by the Bogside Artists depicting the Troubles (1968–1998), including Bloody Sunday (1972), when British soldiers killed 13 civilians. Free to view along Rossville Street, these murals, alongside the Free Derry Corner, are best explored via walking tours (€10–€15) that contextualize the civil rights movement and peace process.
Guildhall: This neo-Gothic landmark, built in 1887, is a cultural hub with stained-glass windows and a clock tower resembling Big Ben. Free entry includes exhibitions on Derry’s history, with guided tours (€3) covering its role in the Plantation and maritime past.

Museums:

Tower Museum: An award-winning museum in a replica medieval tower, it houses two permanent exhibits: The Story of Derry (prehistory to present) and An Armada Shipwreck (La Trinidad Valencera, a 1588 Spanish Armada wreck). The Derry Girls Experience showcases props like Erin’s diary and Spice Girls costumes (€4.50 adults).
Museum of Free Derry: In the Bogside, this museum focuses on the civil rights era (1968–1972), including Bloody Sunday, earning a most authentic visitor experience award in 2018 (€8 adults).
Siege Museum: A display of the 1688–89 Siege of Derry and Apprentice Boys history, with artifacts and interactive media (€5 adults).
Cathedrals St. Columb’s Cathedral: Built in 1633, this Plantation Gothic cathedral, the oldest building in Derry, contains Siege relics (€2 donation). St. Eugene’s Cathedral: A 19th-century Catholic cathedral with stunning spires, free to visit.

Aorund town

Peace Bridge: This 2011 pedestrian bridge, a symbol of reconciliation, connects the west (Cityside, largely Catholic) and east (Waterside, largely Protestant) banks of the Foyle. Its curved design is a popular spot for photos and evening strolls (free).
Derry Girls Tourism: The hit TV show has boosted tourism. Take a Derry Girls walking tour (€15) to see filming locations like the mural at Badger’s Bar, or enjoy themed afternoon teas at The Everglades Hotel (€25). The Derry Girls Experience at the Tower Museum is a must for fans.
Cultural Scene: Derry’s nickname, the “festival city,” reflects its lively calendar. Traditional music spills from pubs like Peadar O’Donnell’s, known for its old-school interior and nightly trad sessions, and Guildhall Taphouse. The Craft Village, a recreated 19th-century courtyard, offers artisan shops and The Cottage café, famed for award-winning scones.

Natural Attractions

River Foyle: The city’s lifeline, the Foyle offers scenic walks along its quays, kayaking tours (€30 for 2 hours), and views from the Peace Bridge.
Nearby Coast and Mountains:
Benone Strand: A 7-mile Blue Flag beach in Limavady, 20 km north, perfect for walks with views of Lough Foyle and Mussenden Temple (€5 parking).
Sperrin Mountains: 40 km southeast, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers hikes like the 6 km Carntogher trail with panoramic views (free).
Inishowen Peninsula: 30 km west in County Donegal, it features rugged cliffs and beaches like Kinnagoe Bay, ideal for day trips.
Grianan of Aileach: A 6th-century stone fort 15 km west in Donegal, offering sweeping views of Derry and Lough Foyle (free).
Outdoor and Active Pursuits
Walking Tours: Daily tours cover the City Walls, Bogside, or Derry Girls sites (1–2 hours, €10–€20). Taxi tours offer a deeper dive into the Troubles (€25/hour).
Cycling: Derry’s 100 km of traffic-free greenways, including the Foyle Valley Cycle Route, are ideal for exploring the riverfront (€15/day bike rental).
Water Sports: Kayaking and paddleboarding on the Foyle are available through Far and Wild (€30–€50).
Golf: City of Derry Golf Club, 5 km north, offers scenic fairways (€30/round).

Food and Drink

Dining: Derry’s food scene emphasizes local ingredients. Walled City Brewery in Ebrington Square crafts beers like Boom IPA and serves dishes with farm-sourced produce (€15–€25 mains). Browns in Town offers fine dining (€30 mains), while Castle Street Social is casual (€12–€18). Mekong Street Food specializes in Asian flavors (€10–€15).
Pubs: Peadar O’Donnell’s and Silver Street (River Inn, Derry’s oldest pub) are trad music hotspots. Dungloe Bar on Waterloo Street pairs music with hearty pub grub (€8–€15).
Markets: The Guildhall hosts occasional food markets, while nearby Limavady’s farmers’ market (monthly) offers local cheeses and seafood.
Accessibility and Sustainability
Getting There: Derry is a 90-minute drive from Belfast (100 km) or 3 hours from Dublin (220 km). City of Derry Airport (LDY, 10 km) connects to London, Glasgow, Manchester, Birmingham, Edinburgh, and Liverpool (new routes from November 2024). Belfast International (BFS, 100 km) and Dublin (DUB, 220 km) are alternatives, with Aircoach buses to Derry (€20–€30). Translink trains from Belfast take 2 hours (€15).
Getting Around: Derry is walkable, with most attractions within 1 km of the walls. Buses (Foyle Metro, €2–€5) and taxis (€5–€10) cover outlying areas. The Visit Derry Pass (€20–€30 for 1–2 days) offers discounted entry to 10 attractions and a city map.
Sustainability: Derry promotes eco-tourism with greenways, car-free festival zones, and local-sourcing restaurants. The city’s “Best Kept City” award in 2023 reflects its clean, green initiatives.

What’s New for 2026 in Derry City

City of Derry International Choir Festival (October 22–26, 2026): This renowned festival returns with concerts, choral trails, and pub performances across venues like the Guildhall, attracting global choirs and 5,000+ visitors. Free and ticketed events (€10–€30).
Derry Halloween Festival (October 28–31, 2026): Europe’s largest Halloween celebration, rooted in the Celtic festival of Samhain, transforms Derry into the “Home of Halloween.” Expect street parades, fireworks, the Awakening the Walled City Trail with illuminations and aerial performances, and spooky events like Jungle NI’s Trail of Terror (45 minutes away, €20). Named the world’s best Halloween destination by USA Today, it draws 30,000+ revelers. Free entry to most events, with paid activities (€5–€20).
The 153rd Open at Royal Portrush (July 13–20, 2026): While 50 km away, this golf championship on the Causeway Coastal Route boosts Derry’s tourism, with shuttle buses and packages for visitors staying in the city (€50–€200 tickets).
Cat Laughs Comedy Festival (May 22–25, 2026): Derry hosts this Belfast-based comedy festival for the first time, featuring stand-up acts at venues like the Playhouse Theatre (€15–€30).
Allegri’s Every Voice Festival (Spring 2026): A new choral event uniting local and visiting singers in a celebration of song, held at St. Columb’s Cathedral and other venues (free–€10).
Maldron Comedy – After Dark Edition: Derry’s newest comedy club launches regular 2026 nights at Maldron Hotel, showcasing local and Irish comedians (€12–€20).
Visit Derry Pass Enhancements: The 2026 pass includes new discounts for eco-friendly tours and Derry Girls-themed experiences, with a digital version via the Visit Derry app.
Visitor Information Centre Upgrades: The Waterloo Place centre, opened in 2024, adds interactive AR exhibits in 2026, enhancing virtual tours of the walls and murals (free entry).
O’Neills Foyle Cup Expansion (July 2026): This youth soccer tournament, primarily in Derry, grows with new pitches and international teams, offering free spectating and community events.

Practical Tips for Visitors

Best Time to Visit: May–June for mild weather (10–18°C) and events like the Jazz Festival; October for Halloween and the Choir Festival; July for the Foyle Cup and proximity to The Open. Winter (December–February) is quieter but wet, ideal for indoor attractions.
Accommodation: Book early for Halloween and The Open. Options include Shipquay Hotel (central, €100–€150/night), Everglades Hotel (riverside, €80–€120), or Waterfoot Hotel (€60–€100). B&Bs like Cathedral View (€50–€80) and hostels like Derry Hostel (€20–€40) suit budgets.
Local Cuisine: Try Ulster fry, fish and chips, or boxty at Walled City Brewery or Castle Street Social. Sample local stout at Peadar O’Donnell’s or craft beer at Guildhall Taphouse.
Safety: Derry is safe, but avoid political discussions due to the naming sensitivity. Stick to marked paths on walls and check weather for coastal trips (e.g., March 9–12, 2026, for storms).
Language: English is universal, with a distinctive Derry accent. Irish appears in cultural contexts, like “Doire” (Derry).

Derry in 2026 is a captivating destination where history and modernity converge. Visitors can walk the 17th-century City Walls, explore Bogside’s poignant murals, or dive into Derry Girls fandom at the Tower Museum. The Peace Bridge and vibrant pubs like Peadar O’Donnell’s reflect the city’s reconciliation and craic. Beyond the walls, Benone Strand and the Sperrin Mountains beckon. New for 2026, the Derry Halloween Festival, International Choir Festival, and comedy events like Cat Laughs join enhanced visitor experiences via the Visit Derry Pass and AR-equipped information centre. Accessible from City of Derry Airport or Belfast, Derry’s blend of heritage, festivals, and warmth makes it a must-visit on the Causeway Coastal Route