Derry~Londonderry is steeped in history and culture, and you’ll find iconic landmarks dotted across the city such as, the Guildhall, the Peace Bridge on the river Foyle and the historic murals which have become infamous.
My name is Niall, I am a student here at Ulster University studying Interactive Media. Me and my friends are big explorers, and I'm really excited to share some great things to do around each of the 3 UU campuses in this short blog series!
Did you know that Derry~Londonderry is one of the finest examples of Walled Cities in Europe and the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland?
Discover and explore the vast history that the city has to offer with a stroll along these stunning walls which date back to the 17th century.
On your walk you’ll find the cannons, many of which were used during the Siege of Derry, and get stunning viewpoints over the city. Here’s another fun fact... Did you know that the city has another name, ‘The Maiden City’, which it earned as the city walls have never been breached, having withstood several sieges!
The Guildhall is a spectacular piece of architecture, located on the banks of the river Foyle, and dating all the way back to 1890. The Guildhall houses magnificent stained-glass windows that surround the neo-gothic building detailing the lives of fishmongers to musicians!
The Guildhall also presents the story of the Plantation of Ulster, taking you through the timeline and showcasing artefacts from the era. There is much more to explore in the Guildhall - from the staircase, organ and hallways that are brimming with history! The building is also the centrepiece for major events in the city, so you may find yourself surrounded by thousands of people if you visit on one of the big festival times such as Halloween, St. Patricks Day, or the Jazz Festival!
The Craft Village is located in the heart of Derry~Londonderry’s ancient walled city - a mix of Artisan shops and buildings from the gorgeous balconied apartments to the boutique cafes, you really won’t want to miss it!
The Craft Village is home to over 70 unique local crafters, makers, and creators - there's something for everyone here, from unique shopping experiences to tasty treats and drinks.
Derry~Londonderry has more recently become famous for being the home of the Channel 4 series ‘Derry Girls’ - a hit comedy that portrays 4 average ‘Derry girls’ and ‘a wee English fella’ in the 90’s during the troubles in Derry~Londonderry. The show’s popularity has skyrocketed across the globe, and offers a unique view into what life was like back in the 90s in this wee city.
The mural is a tribute to the city that inspired the trailblazing comedy series, it’s a must when in Derry whether you’re a local, or just visiting for a day!
Fun fact, the mural was created by a local not-for-profit company UV Arts, made out of love for the series.
Derry~Londonderry is well known for spectacular festivals spanning all year round. From the horrors of Halloween to the tantalising Jazz festival. Derry is the city of celebrations, attracting people from far and wide to come together and celebrate.
Halloween at Derry~Londonderry is highly regarded as Europe’s biggest Halloween capital, specializing in celebrating Halloween to the fullest, decorating the entire city in horror themes from the Guildhall to The Peace Bridge, it really feels like Halloween has been unleashed in the city of Derry!
If you choose Derry~Londonderry you’ll have a fantastic city full of heritage and festivities right in front of you. The Ulster University campuses are also open to all our students regardless of their home campus, take the time to explore each Ulster University campus and what each has to offer!
