Derry City Walls Walking Tour: Full Circuit & Local History

Summary

Walk Derry’s walls with stories from sieges to modern peace

You’ll circle all of Derry’s City Walls with a local guide who brings history to life — from Viking origins to modern peace talks. Expect real stories at every stop, views over Peace Bridge, accessible routes if needed, and time to ask anything you’re curious about. It’s not just facts; it’s people’s memories stitched into stone.

4.94

(157 reviews)

What’s the experience like?

I didn’t expect the walls of Derry to feel so alive. We started near Shipquay Place — our guide, Michael, waved us over with this big grin and a “Right, are we ready for a bit of history then?” The stones were cold under my hand (it had rained earlier, typical Northern Ireland), and you could smell the damp moss mixed with distant chip shops. I thought I’d just be looking at old cannons and towers, but it was more like walking through layers of time. Michael pointed out bullet marks near Bishop’s Gate and told us about his uncle during the Troubles — he got quiet for a second there. You could tell it meant something.

The city walls tour wound past St Columb’s Cathedral and the Guildhall — bells echoing off brick as we crossed by Ferryquay Gate. There was this moment at Double Bastion when a breeze picked up, carrying laughter from kids in the Craft Village below. Someone in our group asked about Brexit (brave move), and Michael didn’t dodge it; he just explained how it changed daily life here. It felt honest, not rehearsed. We stopped at Walker’s Plinth and I tried to pronounce some Irish names; Li laughed at my attempt — probably butchered it. The view over Peace Bridge stuck with me though. You see both sides of the river, and somehow it all feels closer than you’d think.

I liked that the pace wasn’t rushed. We’d linger if someone wanted a photo or had a question about emigration or the famine years — no one hurried us along. There were wheelchair ramps where needed (Michael said private tours can adapt routes), which made everyone feel welcome. By the end, we’d looped back to Shipquay Place, legs tired but heads buzzing with stories about Vikings, railways, even Derry Girls filming spots (I might have taken too many photos). The rain held off just long enough for one last look down over the city — slate roofs shining under a patch of sunlight. I still think about that view sometimes.

1h 45m–2h

Step-by-step itinerary

Top questions

How long does the Derry City Walls walking tour take?

The public tour lasts 75–90 minutes; private tours are around 2 hours.

Is the City Walls tour in Derry wheelchair accessible?

Yes, private tours can adapt routes for wheelchair or stroller access if requested when booking.

What places do you see on this Derry walking tour?

You’ll see Guildhall, Tower Museum, Ferryquay Gate, St Columb's Cathedral, Bishops Gate, Double Bastion, Walker's Plinth, Craft Village and more.

Are group sizes small on this city walls tour?

Yes—groups are kept small (1–15 people) for comfort and quality.

Does this day trip include stories about recent events like Brexit or the Troubles?

Yes—the guide covers everything from early history up through Brexit and recent peace process events.

Is there hotel pickup included?

No hotel pickup is included; tours start at agreed meeting points in central Derry/Londonderry.

Can I book this as a private tour for my group?

Yes—private tours are available for groups up to 15 people and can be customized.

What’s included

Your walk includes a licensed local guide leading you along the full circuit of Derry’s historic city walls with stops at key sites like Guildhall and Peace Bridge; public transport is nearby if you need it; private tours offer accessible routes for wheelchairs or strollers—just request when booking.

Do you have any questions before booking? Reach us anytime — we’re available 24/7.

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