Derry/Londonderry Private Day Tour from Belfast
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Overview
The Derry Londonderry Private Full Day Tour From Belfast offers a unique and immersive exploration of Northern Ireland's historic city. This private tour, led by a professional guide, provides personalized transportation and an in-depth look at Derry/Londonderry's rich, and often turbulent, past. It's a perfect choice for those who have already seen Northern Ireland's other popular sights and seek a deeper understanding of its history.
Expect to delve into significant events like the Battle of the Bogside, Operation Motorman, and Bloody Sunday. A local historian and political activist guides visitors through the areas where these events unfolded, including the site where civil rights marchers were tragically killed. The tour includes a private exploration of the ancient city walls, offering insights into the siege and plantation, along with the politically charged murals and historic cannons.
This full-day experience includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and convenient journey. Enjoy the flexibility to stop whenever needed and benefit from a personalized itinerary. The tour includes a guided walk of the city's ancient walls and visits to key sites such as Free Derry Corner, the Bloody Sunday Memorial, and the Derry Girls Mural. Please note that lunch, tips for the guide, and entrance fees to attractions like the Tower Museum are not included.




Highlights
Private & Personalized: Enjoy a tour customized to your interests with a private guide.
Delve into History: Learn about key events like Bloody Sunday and the Siege of Derry.
Comfortable Transport: Travel in style with private, air-conditioned transportation.
Iconic Landmarks: Visit Free Derry Corner, the City Walls, and the Derry Girls Mural.
Sentiment Analysis
Customers generally have a great experience on the Derry/Londonderry Private Tour from Belfast, appreciating the personalized attention, historical insights, and flexibility. However, some customers found the focus on conflict history a bit intense and did not like the additional costs for entrance fees and lunch.

Customers enjoyed the personalized attention from their tour guides.
Many appreciated the depth of knowledge and historical insights provided.
The flexibility of the private tour to customize the itinerary was a highlight.
Visitors loved the ease and comfort of having private transportation.
Some found the additional costs for entrance fees and lunch to be unexpected.
A few mentioned that the tour's focus on conflict history could be intense.
The Journey
Free Derry Corner
Capture a powerful moment at the World Famous Free Derry Corner, a symbolic landmark embodying the spirit of Irish nationalism. This iconic gable wall, declaring 'You Are Now Entering Free Derry,' serves as a potent reminder of the city's turbulent past and its ongoing pursuit of civil rights. It's an essential stop for any visitor seeking to understand Derry's unique identity and history.
The Bogside
Step into the heart of Derry's history with a visit to 'The Bogside,' a historically Catholic/Irish republican neighborhood. Bordering the Protestant Fountain area, this enclave tells a powerful story of community, conflict, and resilience. Explore the striking gable-wall murals by the Bogside Artists, which vividly depict key events from 'The Troubles.' Learn about the pivotal 'Battle of the Bogside,' a defining moment that ignited widespread conflict in Northern Ireland, and understand the area's significance as a symbol of resistance and cultural identity.
Operation Motorman Site
Reflect on the impact of 'Operation Motorman,' a significant British Army initiative during 'The Troubles.' This operation, launched on July 31, 1972, aimed to reclaim 'no-go areas' controlled by Irish republicans. Learn about the background of this major military undertaking, its preparations, and its execution in Derry as 'Operation Carcan.' Understand the lasting effects of this operation on the city and its communities, marking a pivotal moment in Northern Ireland's complex history.
Bloody Sunday Memorial
Pay your respects at the Bloody Sunday Memorial, a solemn site commemorating the tragic events of January 30, 1972. Here, British soldiers shot unarmed civilians during a protest march, an event that became a defining moment in 'The Troubles.' Reflect on the history of this massacre, the subsequent investigations, and its profound impact on the community. Understanding this event is crucial to grasping the complexities of Derry's past and the ongoing journey toward reconciliation.
Derry's City Walls and Cannons
Explore Derry's remarkably preserved City Walls, a mile-long testament to the city's rich history and strategic importance. As the only completely intact walled city in Ireland and one of Europe's finest examples, these walls offer a unique promenade with panoramic views. Discover the Renaissance-style street plan and learn about the historic sieges, including the famous Siege of Derry in 1689, which earned the city its nickname, 'The Maiden City.' Admire Europe's largest collection of precisely known cannons, meticulously restored to their former glory, and imagine the thunderous echoes of past battles.
Guildhall
Visit the Guildhall, a striking neo-Gothic building steeped in history and civic pride. Originally built in the 17th century and later rebuilt after a fire, the Guildhall stands as a symbol of Derry's resilience. Learn about its historical significance, its role during 'The Troubles,' and its restoration as a vibrant cultural hub. Admire the stained-glass windows, intricate architecture, and the clock tower that survived the fire, all testaments to the city's enduring spirit.
Peace Bridge
Walk across the iconic Peace Bridge, a symbol of unity and reconciliation in Derry. Spanning the River Foyle, this architectural masterpiece connects the Protestant Waterside and the Nationalist Bogside, bridging a 400-year-old divide. Admire the bridge's elegant design, representing the unification of two communities, and take in the stunning views of the city. This bridge is more than just a structure; it's a testament to Derry's commitment to peace and progress.
Peace Flame
Reflect on the enduring quest for peace at the Peace Flame, a symbol inspired by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and the end of the conflict in Northern Ireland. This flame represents hope, reconciliation, and the ongoing pursuit of justice and equality. Take a moment to consider the significance of this monument and its message of unity for Derry and the world.
Tower Museum
Delve into Derry's rich history and heritage at the Tower Museum. Explore permanent exhibitions like the 'Story of Derry' and 'An Armada Shipwreck - La Trinidad Valencera,' offering fascinating insights into the city's past. Enjoy panoramic views of Derry and the River Foyle from the only open-air viewing facility in the city center. With temporary exhibitions throughout the year, the Tower Museum provides a captivating and educational experience for visitors of all ages.
Museum of Free Derry
Gain a profound understanding of Derry's civil rights era and 'The Troubles' at the Museum of Free Derry. Located in the heart of the Bogside, this museum tells the story of the Free Derry Irish nationalist movement from the perspective of those most affected. Through photographs, posters, film footage, and personal artifacts, you'll witness the events of 1968-1972, including the Battle of the Bogside, Internment, Bloody Sunday, and Operation Motorman. This museum is a powerful reminder of the struggle for human and civil rights, connecting Derry's history to global movements for social justice.
St. Columb's Cathedral
Discover the historical and architectural significance of St. Columb's Cathedral, the first Anglican cathedral built after the Reformation in the British Isles. Explore the cathedral's rich history, dating back to the 6th century and its rebuilding in the 17th century. Admire the Planter's Gothic style, view historical documents from the Siege of Derry, and reflect on the cathedral's role as a symbol of resilience and faith in the city.
Derry Girls Mural
Have a laugh and snap a selfie at the world-famous Derry Girls Mural! This vibrant and humorous artwork celebrates the hit television show 'Derry Girls,' capturing the spirit and wit of the city's unique culture. It's a must-see for fans of the show and anyone looking for a fun and memorable photo opportunity in Derry.
Grianán of Aileach
Embark on a scenic drive across the border into County Donegal, Republic of Ireland, and discover the ancient Grianán of Aileach. This hilltop fort offers breathtaking panoramic views of the Province of Ulster and beyond. Explore the reconstructed stone ringfort, believed to have been built by the Northern Uí Néill in the 6th or 7th century CE. This excursion provides a unique opportunity to experience the natural beauty and historical significance of the Irish countryside.
Know Before You Go
This private tour includes private transportation in an air-conditioned vehicle, a private Bloody Sunday walking tour, and a fully qualified local guide who provides intimate insights into Derry’s history and culture. You'll see Derry in one day, including a private guided tour of Derry City's Ancient Walls and the Derry Girls Murals. Optimize your time with hassle-free round-trip transfer from your hotel. Lunch and tips for your guide are not included. Optional upgrades, such as a luxury Mercedes Benz V-Class or extended tour time, are available for an additional fee. Pickup and drop-off from cruise ships are available for an extra charge paid directly to your tour guide in cash.
Hot Tip
Many past visitors recommend wearing comfortable shoes, as there is a fair amount of walking involved, especially when exploring the city walls. Bring along cash, as some smaller establishments or optional extras (like the Tower Museum entry) may prefer it. Also, engage with your guide and ask questions – they are a wealth of local knowledge and can tailor the experience even further!