Derry
Walled City
The walled city of Derry is one of the oldest settlements in Ireland and a great place to visit. The town is also one of the best walled cities in Britain rivalling Chester or York, the history of the town makes it a fascinating place to visit and as a base to explore the surrounding area.
St Columba in c 546 built his abbey in an oak grove Daire at Derry, the town was later captured by the English in the early 17th century.
Start your day at the tower museum or the Neo gothic guildhall both interesting places to visit then you can make your way to Shipquay Gate where there are steps to the top were you can begin anti clockwise route along the walls.
These gigantic ramparts built in 1613 – 1618 are most impressive being 25 ft. high in places and 24 feet thick the whole length is about 1mile. Walking along these mighty walls it is easy to see why the inhabitants could resist a siege albeit running out of supplies until they were relieved by Captain Michael Browning who breached the blockade. The story of the siege is compelling reading
The elevated walk is a good place to admire the city and many of the historical buildings that sit alongside the walls, which you can break the walk by coming down to visit and with great views of the River Foyle. On the way you will see original cannons and fortifications, Queen Elizabeth I gifted seven cannons to the town.
St Columba’s Cathedral built in 1663 is a must see and the beautiful St Augustine’s Church as is the Neo Gothic guildhall with its famous stained glass. Across the Foyle is Hannons symbolic statue ACROSS THE DIVIDE.
Derry was a departure point for Irish emigrants leaving for the new world.
Activities in Derry
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