Destination Derry 2005 by WelcomeToDerry

a warm welcome awaits you in Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic walled city.

Tourist information centre tel: +44 (0) 28 7126 7284 Administration & Marketing tel: +44 (0) 28 7137 7577 email: info@derryvisitor.com click: www.derryvisitor.com we look forward to your visit!

EU Programme for Peace and Reconcilliation Produced with assistance from the EU European Regional Development Fund through the Northern Ireland Tourist Board

For further information please contact, Derry Visitor and Convention Bureau, 44 Foyle Street, Derry, Northern Ireland BT48 6AT

derry Irelandâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s historic walled city

acknowledgements photography Lorcan Doherty Northern Ireland Tourist Board Derry City Council Sustrans text Peter Magennis ÂŠ Derry Visitor and Convention Bureau 2005 Every effort has been made to ensure the accuracy in the compilation of this brochure. DVCB, however cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions but where such are brought to our attention, future publications will be amended accordingly.

destination derry

If you want to expand your horizons then look no further than Derry. Thereâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s such a vast array of things to see and do, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s the perfect holiday destination.

welcome to destination derry 1 if stones could speak 3 where the walls come to life 7 festival time 11 the night is alive 13

contents

culinary delights 15 wall to wall shopping 16 beyond the city walls 17 getting here 19

destination derry D

erry also known as Londonderry is the only remaining completely walled city in the British Isles and its perfectly preserved walls are one of the ﬁnest examples of their kind in Europe. There is over 1,450 years of history locked into its 17th century walls, but today’s city does not live in the past. In fact it is rapidly emerging as a cosmopolitan city

to be reckoned with. It’s no surprise to learn that the place with more than one name has seen its share of reinvention throughout the years. The city may be steeped in centuries of history but it’s also in the midst of a transformation like no other, and is very much looking to the future. The local sense of humour also gives the city its character

and is just one more reason why you’ll never cease to be amazed by the variety of what is on offer. Once you think you know Derry, you’ll discover something else about the eclectic city and change your mind completely. It really is a city full of surprises!

be enjoying a tour of the ancient city walls, visiting a 17th century cathedral, or shopping for handcrafted souvenirs at the Craft Village. There really is something for everyone! So what are you waiting for? Make your next holiday - destination derry!

So what are you waiting for? Make your next holiday - destination derry!

destination derry

No matter what kind of holiday you enjoy, Derry has got it all, from history and culture to activities and adventure, from excellent events and festivals to rest and relaxation. One minute you could be watching a play in a state of the art 21st century theatre, or indulging yourself at a spa in a luxury four-star hotel, the next minute you could

if stones 3

could speak Discover a wealth of history on foot

tep back in time and relive the city’s past on an Inner City Guided Walking Tour, where you’ll discover a wealth of history. Derry has a rich and varied cultural heritage and the City Walls are home to a number of museums, galleries and theatres, as well as thriving musical and literary scenes. The impressively overwhelming Tower Museum tells the story of Derry’s history, from its geological formation millions of years ago, right up to the present day, covering everything from the Plantation, through to

the Siege of Derry and the city’s troubled political past. The museum also houses the Armada Shipwreck exhibition which deals with the recovery of La Trinidad Valencera which was shipwrecked off the coast of Donegal in 1588. The Harbour Museum places its emphasis on not so dry land focusing on the city’s maritime connections. In the Ballyarnett area the Amelia Earhart Centre commemorates the unexpected landing of Amelia Earhart on her historic solo ﬂight across the Atlantic in 1932.

destination derry

Londonderry’s mighty City Walls may never have been breached, but throughout the years many of the city’s ancient buildings were destroyed by the many sieges on the city, including the famous Siege of Derry in the 17th century. Situated on the Waterside area is Riverwatch at the Lough’s Agency which provides the opportunity to explore the Foyle and Carlingford Loughs. The Workhouse Museum tells the story of the famine and the Battle of the Atlantic. The Glenaden Shirt Factory explores the history of shirt making in the city and Prehen House is home to one of Ireland’s greatest love stories, the legend of Half Hung McNaughton.

The Apprentice Boy’s Memorial Hall is where the Siege of Derry celebrations take place each year and it is well worth a visit. One building that amazingly survived the Siege of Derry is the magniﬁcent St Columb’s Cathedral.

Built in 1633, the cathedral is the city’s most historic building and is ﬁlled with centuries of relics and artefacts. Another must-see is the magniﬁcent neo-Gothic Guildhall, complete with one of the largest and most striking collections of stained glass windows in Ireland.

if stones could speak

Equally as impressive are the wall murals that dominate the skyline of the Bogside, The Fountain as well as the Waterside area of the city. The murals are a poignant reminder of key events in Derry’s more recent history. You can even visit the Bogside Artist’s studio to learn the stories behind these murals.

Derry is the unofﬁcial cultural capital of Northern Ireland and in true Derry fashion; it’s an accolade that the city is determined to keep! The Verbal Arts Centre is dedicated to literature in all its forms, hosting many events and exhibiting local artists’ works and The Playhouse is an award-winning community arts centre, as well as a theatre in its own right.

For such a compact city, it has given the world its fair share of famous names and was once the stomping ground for a number of internationally renowned writers and performers. The muchcelebrated playwright Brian Friel, author of ‘Philadelphia, Here I Come!’ grew up in Derry, as did famous poet, Seamus Heaney.

It has also produced some very impressive homegrown musical talent, including Dana, Josef Locke, Phil Coulter and The Undertones. The talent doesn’t stop there either, actors Amanda Burton (Silent Witness), Bronagh Gallagher (The Commitments) and Roma Downey (Touched By An Angel) also hail from the city. Derry has been the home to many a saint and scholar over the years. According to legend, the great Irish Saint Colmcille/ Columba founded a monastery here in the sixth century. The city has the accolade of producing, not one, but two Nobel Prize winners. Seamus Heaney was the recipient of the Nobel Prize for Literature and local politician, John Hume, won the Nobel Peace Prize in 1998. Derry is undoubtedly full of many forward thinkers, so it’s no surprise to learn that we have some big ideas for the future. The opening of the Millennium Forum, North West’s largest purpose built theatre, has been the catalyst for development in the arts. The evolving Cathedral Quarter has been earmarked for development into an area devoted to the arts, with plans for even more major development in the not too distant future.

destination derry

Derry has been the home to many a saint and scholar over the years

The city takes the arts very seriously and is rightfully proud of its local artists. The Nerve Centre is a hub for some of these artists and is committed to nurturing and developing local talent.

where the walls c W

hen visiting Derry there are some things that you simply must see and must do while you are here. Enjoy a Guided Walking Tour, a great way to learn about the city’s history as told through the magical 17th century walls that have been privy to centuries of its historical events. It’s no wonder that the mighty walls are still unbroken,

as they are on average 18 feet high and a staggering 20 feet wide, with a circumference of about 1 mile (1.5 km). The walls are one of the ﬁnest examples in Europe and really are a sight to behold. You can even climb the ramparts via stone stairways and several sections are wheelchair accessible.

The city’s multifaceted history is very complex, but your expert tour guide will ensure that it all makes perfect sense. The tour takes in all of the major sights including the Guildhall, St Columb’s Cathedral whilst passing through the walled city’s beautiful cobbled streets.

The great thing about Derry is that all of the attractions are within walking distance, but if you still can’t face some of the more mountainous hills in the city centre, then you might like to tour in a taxi or an open top bus; the perfect way to sight see in the spring and summer months.

destination derry

s come to life

Why not take a cruise along the glorious River Foyle and view the city from the same perspective as its many visitors and former inhabitants? Many emigrants, the Vikings and the ancient Irish kings who left Derry during the Flight of the Earl’s all sailed on the enchanting river.

outside the walls there is life

The River Foyle really is the vein that supplies the lifeblood to Derry and is also one of the richest ďŹ shing rivers in Europe, teeming with salmon and trout. Keen anglers can also enjoy tranquil ďŹ shing at the nearby Creggan Country Park, where a variety of water sports and other activities are available for those looking for the thrill of the great outdoors.

destination derry If cycling is your game, then you should follow the Foyle Valley Cycle Route, connecting the historic walled city to the border towns of Lifford and Strabane. The route comprises of a series of trafﬁc-free paths and quiet country roads, which are a joy to ride.

Tee off at the local parkland courses namely City of Derry and Foyle International Golf courses. For the more challenging golfer sample some of the world’s most internationally renowned golf courses located on your doorstep including Ballylifﬁn in Donegal and Royal Portrush - ranked as one of the world’s top twenty courses.

festival time T

he locals certainly know how to make you feel welcome and they most deﬁnitely know how to enjoy themselves, so it’s really no surprise that the city is the proud host of some of the best festivals and events on the international calendar. Taking pride of place on that calendar is The Banks of the Foyle Hallowe’en Carnival. Ireland’s largest street carnival sees over 40,000 revellers taking to the streets of the city to party way past the witching hour.

The Banks of the Foyle are truly bursting with a motley crew of ghosts and ghouls for the party of the year. The carnival is a sight to behold and a night to remember! In March the Big Tickle Comedy Festival will put a smile on your face and in May the cream of international jazz head for Derry for the famous annual City of Derry Jazz and Big Band Festival. This ﬁve day festival plays to an audience of over 15,000 jazz fans.

destination derry During the summer season the city is host to many events including the Foyle Regatta, Gasyard Féile, Foyle Cup, Cycling, Maiden City and Celtronic Festivals. The Walled City Cultural Trail programme will uncover the city’s wealth of history and culture guiding you through a choice of ‘themed’ days. In November The Foyle Film Festival, the biggest ﬁlm festival in Northern Ireland, attracts ﬁlm buffs and many famous names. These are just a few annual events; the city’s great theatres, conference facilities, nightclubs and bars ensure that there is plenty more happening all year round.

the night is alive T

o say that the pursuit of pleasure is the main goal of some of the locals may be a bit of an exaggeration. But then again, perhaps it’s not that far from the truth! This city that really knows how to let its hair down. There is a popular expression in Northern Ireland, “The craic’s 90”. Well in Derry the craic (A combination of good times, good company and possibly a good pint) is deﬁnitely closer to 100! Unsurprisingly,

there is also a thriving local music scene and at night the city on the hill is alive with the sound of music! Whether it’s an Irish music ‘seisún’ in a traditional pub, chilling out to the sounds of some cooler than cool jazz, enjoying a classical concerto or even a West End show at the Millennium Forum, or lapping up the atmosphere at one of its nightclubs, prepare to be entertained and have the night of your life.

Theatre goers will be spoilt for choice with many venues playing host to the cream of local and international acting talent as well as staging their own productions. For it’s size, the city has plenty of lively themed bars, stylish clubs and traditional pubs squeezed into one space. This makes Derry an ideal location for those keen to partake in a spot of pub-crawling. Your only problem is, “Where to next?”

the small city with the big personality... Its a modern city, but without the big city attitude. That’s right, the local people are among the friendliest you’ll meet and their warmest of warm welcomes is world famous. Derry will leave you with fond memories and many friends. Most of its socialising takes place in the local pub where it’ll never take long to strike up a conversation with a friendly face. There’s a melting pot of individuals and, upon chatting to the locals, you’ll soon ﬁnd out that everyone has a different story and their own unique sense of humour! Whoever you want to believe is up to you, but one thing’s for sure, you will be guaranteed a good time. So, sit back and relax. Enjoy yourself - you’re in great company!

destination derry

“The craic’s 90”

culinary delights

he local chefs are keen to use local produce, transforming it into a wonderful culinary delight for your gourmet pleasure.

Our restaurants, bistros and brasseries will have you coming back for second helpings. The choice is remarkable for a city of its size.

You simply must try some of our locally caught seafood, which is amongst the best in the world. The perfect pint to wash it all down? A pint of the black stuff - Guinness of course - you’re in Ireland after all!

The city prides itself as being the hospitality champions of Ireland and service with a smile is always guaranteed to be on the menu. So whether you are looking for contemporary cuisine, a ﬁne dining experience or your just re-fuelling the kids, you’ll ﬁnd it all in Derry!

destination derry

wall to wall

shopping

Brace yourself for some serious retail therapy and prepare to be spoilt by Derry’s choice for the most professional shopaholic! The city really is a shopper’s paradise with something to suit every taste and every pocket. Among the many meccas for indulgence is the Foyleside Shopping Centre - named the Best and Biggest Shopping Centre in Northern Ireland, the Richmond Shopping Centre and don’t miss the unique Craft Village.

Fashionistas will simply adore some of the designer boutiques dotted throughout the city centre, offering everything the more discerning shopper could ask for, including catwalk couture and lesser-known gems from local designers. If you’re shopping for souvenirs, you’ll ﬁnd something extra special, from traditional Irish gifts, stone crafts, local handmade jewellery and crystal.

All the best-known high street names can be found in the shopping centres, all conveniently located just a few short stiletto steps away from each other. But then, you never have to stray too far, but perhaps the heels can stay at home as some of the streets are more than just a little steep!

beyond the city wall Derry also known as Londonderry is the gateway to the Northwest of Ireland and is the ideal base from which to explore the surrounding area. You have everything that you would expect from any other modern city, but turn a corner and you are surrounded by the spectacular Irish countryside.

To the west in Donegal - you will ﬁnd miles of sandy beaches and dramatic coastline. Don’t miss the spectacular views of this city and the Northwest from the stone ring fort of Grianán of Aileach.

alls

To the Northeast lies The Giant’s Causeway, deﬁnitely worth a visit. This world-famous natural wonder consists of over 40,000 six-sided basalt columns that are a sight to behold.

Any visit to Ireland isn’t complete without a visit to Derry. Where else in the Emerald Isle offers such diversity and excitement? The city is a melting pot of culture, people, events and experiences all stirred up into a unique holiday experience that you’ll never forget. So when you visit Ireland make sure you look on the map and mark your destination - derry ‘Ireland’s historic walled city’.

destination derry

To the south in the Sperrins - rugged mountains and lush emerald green valleys are all waiting to take your breath away. This area is also home to the Ulster American Folk Park in Omagh, where Irish and American history is brought to life.

getting here

Northern Ireland is easy to get to Excellent fast ferry links from England and Scotland to Belfast and Larne, 3 airports with frequent, low-cost ďŹ&#x201A;ights from the UK and beyond, plus good road, bus and train links to take you where you want to go.

by air... City of Derry Airport Airport Road, Derry www.cityofderryairport.com T: +44 (0) 28 7181 0784 The City of Derry Airport is centralised in the heart of the North West region, seven miles from the city centre.

Belfast International Airport

Belfast Europa Bus Station

T: +44 (0) 28 9448 4848 www.belfastairport.com

T: +44 (0) 28 9066 6630 Regular bus service from Belfast Europa Bus Centre - Derry city centre.

Located 75 minutes from Derry city centre, the international Airport is served by major airlines with direct ﬂights from many UK and European destinations. New direct service from Newark, USA. Belfast City Airport

This modern international facility offers direct ﬂights from the following destinations:

T: +44 (0) 28 9093 9093 www.belfastcityairport.com

Dublin (operated by British Airways) London Stansted (operated by Ryanair) Glasgow (operated by British Airways) Prestwick (operated by Air Caledonian) Birmingham (operated by Aer Arann) Manchester (operated by Aer Arann) International connections to Europe are via London with Ryanair, Dublin with British Airways and Manchester and Birmingham with Aer Arann. Seasonal direct ﬂights from Alicante and Malaga (operated by Servitour)

Located just 90 minutes from Derry city centre, the City Airport is served by major airlines with direct ﬂights from the main UK destinations.

Full details on the airport can be obtained from www.cityofderryairport.com Car Hire at City of Derry Airport

Dublin Airport T: +353 (1) 8141111 www.dublin-airport.com

Dublin - Derry Express Bus Service T: +353 (1) 8366111 Regular bus service from Busaras to Derry city centre.

by sea... You can get a ferry to Northern Ireland from: Cairnryan / Birkenhead (Liverpool) / Fleetwood / Douglas (Isle of Man) / Stranraer / Troon. Belfast Harbour +44 (0) 28 9055 4422 www.belfast-harbour.co.uk Larne Harbour +44 (0) 28 2887 2100 www.portoﬂarne.co.uk

Located less than four hour drive from Derry, Dublin airport has scheduled services from most UK and European destinations, Canada and United States.

by rail...

Tourism Ireland ofﬁces There are 18 overseas Tourism Ireland ofﬁces located around the globe. For further information visit www.tourismireland.com/corporate

Enterprise Rent A Car T: +44 (0) 28 7186 1699 www.enterprise.com

Derry enjoys intercity services with Belfast. An efﬁcient intercity service operates between Dublin and Belfast central with a journey time of 2 hours and connected services from all major towns and cities in Ireland.

Europcar T: +44 (0) 28 7181 2773 www.europcar.ie

by road...

www.gotobelfast.com

Excellent road network linking major cities in Ireland.

www.fermanaghlakelands.com

Desmond Motors T: +44 (0) 28 7136 7137

For further information on other Regional Tourism Organisations contact:

Airporter T: +44 (0) 28 7126 9996 www.airporter.co.uk Frequent coach service to Derry city centre from Belfast City and Belfast International airports.