Derry / Londonderry

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The image features the **Derry Girls mural** in Belfast, Northern Ireland. The mural showcases the five main characters from the hit TV show *Derry Girls*, painted in vibrant colors on the side of a building. The characters—Erin, Orla, Clare, Michelle, and James—are depicted in their school uniforms, with expressive facial features that capture their personalities. The background includes a mix of urban architecture, with nearby buildings and street elements adding to the city atmosphere. The mural is a popular attraction, celebrating the show's cultural impact and humor.

This is going to be controversial, I live in Ireland so I will call this place Derry since it’s in the signboards in the republic. Derry is 3 hours drive from Dublin. We wanted to stay overnight but could not find a cheap place to stay over the May bank holiday. I enjoyed driving around the country anyway. Last year for May bank holiday, we went to Cobh, Kinsale and Cork

What do I know about Derry? We had to play a song called “Londonderry air” when we started piano. I learned more about Derry when I as in Ireland, that the Bloody Sunday started the Troubles, that it is a very divided city (between the unionist and republicans) and there is a wall around the city. After this visit, we know there is more to the city that calls for another visit someday in the future.

The Wall

The Derry City Walls, built between 1613 and 1619, are among the finest examples of 17th-century fortifications in Europe. Encircling the historic heart of Derry, these well-preserved defensive walls stand as a testament to the city’s turbulent past, including the famous Siege of Derry in 1689, where its unbroken defenses earned the nickname “The Maiden City.” Originally constructed to protect English and Scottish settlers during the Plantation of Ulster, the walls now serve as a cultural landmark, offering stunning views, restored cannons, and a tangible connection to centuries of history. A walk along the walls is more than a journey through time—it’s an immersive experience into resilience, conflict, and heritage.

This was the focus point of our visit to Derry. We parked our car at the Foyleside parking lot (there is a 24 hour parking section) and got on the wall from Newmarket Street where the wall is level to the road. Just as we exited Foyleside Mall, we stopped at the Derry Girls Mural. Folks who lived in Northern Ireland in during the troubles said the sitcom really depicts life and the environment in schools at that time.

Along the wall, we stopped by to look at the various bastions and gates. We can also see some of the Bogside Murals from the wall. There is also church called St Augustine Church, also known as the “wee church on the wall”. Derry is a pretty small town and from the wall, you can go to various restaurants in the city.

This image shows a section of the Derry Walls in Derry, Northern Ireland. The scene includes a paved walkway along the historic stone walls, with several people walking and cars parked along the adjacent street. The surrounding buildings are a mix of old and new architecture, with brick and stone facades. The sky is partly cloudy, adding to the picturesque view of this historic area.
A section of the Derry walls.
The image shows a section of the Derry Walls in Derry, Northern Ireland. The walls are made of stone and run alongside modern buildings. There are people walking up and down the steps that lead to a higher part of the city. The scene includes a mix of historical architecture and contemporary structures, highlighting the blend of old and new in the city. The sky is partly cloudy, and the area appears to be a popular spot for visitors.
Another section of Derry walls where the buildings are built right up to the wall.
The image shows a view from the **Derry Wall near Newmarket Street**, overlooking the **Millennium Forum**. The **Millennium Forum** is a large, modern building with a cylindrical shape, and its name is prominently displayed on the facade. Several people are walking along the street, and cars are parked on the side. The street is paved with cobblestones and flanked by historic stone walls. The scene captures a mix of **historical and contemporary architecture**, with the **Millennium Forum** standing out due to its modern design.
This is the section of Derry Walls that is level with the road at Newmarket Street.
The image shows **St. Augustine's Church**, also known as the **Wee Church on the Walls**, in Derry, Northern Ireland. The church has a **stone facade** with a **pointed bell tower** and a **large circular stained glass window** above the entrance. The **wooden double doors** lead into the historic building, which is surrounded by **well-maintained gardens** with various plants and flowers. A **gravestone** is visible on the left side, suggesting an adjoining cemetery. The sky is **partly cloudy**, with patches of blue visible, adding to the serene atmosphere of this historic site.
St Augustine’s Church on the Derry Walls. Also known as the “Wee Church on the Wall”

Guildhall

The Guildhall in Derry is a stunning Beaux-Arts style building that has stood as a civic and cultural landmark since its completion in 1890. Originally funded by The Honourable The Irish Society, the Guildhall was built on reclaimed land from the River Foyle and has served as a town hall, a site for major political events, and a hub for community gatherings. Over the years, it has endured fires, bombings, and restorations, yet remains a symbol of resilience, boasting magnificent stained-glass windows and a historic pipe organ.

In November 1995, the Guildhall became the backdrop for a historic moment when U.S. President Bill Clinton visited Derry, delivering a speech of hope and unity to thousands gathered in Guildhall Square. This moment was later referenced in the hit TV show Derry Girls, where the characters excitedly anticipated Clinton’s arrival, mirroring the real-life excitement of the city. The Guildhall continues to be a cultural touchstone, bridging Derry’s past with its vibrant present.

There is a little museum on the first floor of the guildhall about the Ulster Plantation. This is an important part of Irish / English history as laid the groundwork for the sectarian divisions that later fueled the Troubles. The plantation involved the confiscation of land from Gaelic Irish lords and its redistribution to English and Scottish Protestant settlers, creating a lasting demographic shift. This led to deep-rooted tensions between the native Catholic Irish and the Protestant settlers, as land ownership, political power, and religious identity became sources of conflict

The image shows the **Guildhall in Derry**, a historic building with a striking **red sandstone facade** and a **tall clock tower**. The Guildhall features intricate **Gothic-style architecture**, with **large stained glass windows** and detailed carvings. In front of the building, several **green and white tents** are set up, indicating a **market or event** taking place. People are walking around and interacting with the stalls, creating a **lively atmosphere**. The sky is **blue with scattered clouds**, adding to the vibrant and inviting scene.
Guildhall in Derry. There is a small museum on the Ulster Plantations, which is a very important part of Irish history

Peace Bridge

The Peace Bridge in Derry, opened in 2011, is a striking self-anchored suspension bridge that spans the River Foyle, symbolizing unity between the historically divided communities of the city. The bridge’s elegant curves represent a handshake across the river, connecting the Cityside and Waterside areas. More than just a walkway, the Peace Bridge stands as a powerful emblem of reconciliation, progress, and the city’s commitment to a shared future.

It was a good day when we went, sunny but still chilly with a slight wind. There were loads of people walking on the bridge to enjoy the stroll. Seems to be one of those things that you “check off” on a visit to Derry.

The image shows the **Peace Bridge in Derry, Northern Ireland**, a modern **cycle and footbridge** spanning the **River Foyle**. The bridge features **two large, angled supports** with cables creating a striking visual design. Several **people are walking across the bridge**, enjoying the scenic view. In the background, a mix of **older and newer buildings** lines the riverbank. The sky is **blue with scattered clouds**, adding to the bright and inviting atmosphere. The bridge is a **symbol of peace and unity**, connecting different parts of the city.
Peace Bridge in Derry

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