Derry: McCrossans Public Walking Tour of the Historic City

Derry, or Londonderry if you prefer, is one of Northern Ireland’s most intriguing destinations — full of stories that span centuries. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, the reviews and detailed descriptions paint a clear picture of a compelling, well-rounded experience. If you’re curious about the city’s turbulent past and vibrant present, this walking tour promises to deliver.

What we love about this tour? First, the expert guides who bring history to life with stories and humor. Second, the stunning views from the city walls that give you a unique perspective on the cityscape. Third, the coverage of key sites like the Siege of Derry, Bloody Sunday murals, and historic churches, all delivered at a good pace. One thing to consider is the tour’s duration; at just an hour, it’s a snapshot rather than an exhaustive deep dive, which might leave some wanting more. This tour is best suited for travelers interested in history, politics, or those simply eager to see Derry’s highlights with an experienced guide.

Good To Know

• Expert Guidance: Knowledgeable guides like Mickey, Pat, or John bring stories to life.
• Iconic Views: Walking on top of the 400-year-old city walls offers memorable vistas.
• Historical and Modern Stories: From the Siege to Bloody Sunday, learn about the city’s layered history.
• Authentic Sites: Visit the oldest building, St Columbs Cathedral, and see murals in the Bogside.
• Value for Money: The tour packs a lot into 70 minutes, offering insights that are often hard to find elsewhere.
• Wheelchair Accessible: Suitable for most visitors, making it inclusive.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Walk Through Derry’s Historic Heart

The tour kicks off at 11 Carlisle Road, a straightforward meeting point outside Foyleside shopping centre, marked clearly with a banner. From there, it’s a brisk but comfortable 70-minute walk that covers some of Derry’s most significant sites, making it perfect for a quick yet meaningful introduction to the city.

Walking on the City Walls

The highlight for many is the chance to walk atop Derry’s historic walls. Built over 400 years ago, these walls are among the best-preserved city fortifications in Ireland. As you stroll along, you’ll admire sweeping views of the city, the river, and the surrounding landscape. Travelers consistently mention the “great views” and “stunning scenery” as a memorable part of the experience. It’s a tangible connection to the city’s defensive past and a perfect photo opportunity.

Exploring the Oldest Building and Religious Sites

The tour includes stops at St Columbs Cathedral, the oldest building within Derry’s walls. This cathedral, dating back to the early 17th century, provides insight into the city’s architectural and religious history. Alongside it, the guide points out St Eugenes Cathedral, St Columbas Long Tower, St Augustines, and the First Derry Presbyterian Church. These sites tell stories of faith, community, and the city’s evolving identity over centuries.

Learning About the Siege and Emigration

A major focus is the Siege of Derry, a pivotal moment in Irish history. Guides typically narrate how the city’s defiance shaped its identity, emphasizing the resilience that persists today. Several reviewers praise their guides for explaining complex events objectively and clearly, such as Maureen, who appreciated hearing about “the whole historical story, not just the troubles.”

The tour also covers emigration stories and the Plantation, illustrating how Derry’s population and demographics shifted over time. This context helps visitors appreciate the city’s diverse roots and ongoing cultural significance.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Murals and Modern Political History

One of the most striking aspects is the visit to the Bogside murals and Fountain areas, where vibrant street art depicts key moments like Bloody Sunday. The guide shares stories behind each mural, providing depth beyond just viewing the artwork. Many reviewers, like Jorge, mention the insights into modern political history and the “story behind the murals” as deeply moving and educational.

The Role of Derry in World War II

While not always front and center, the tour highlights Derry’s role during World War II, reflecting on how the city contributed to the wartime effort. These lesser-known stories add layers to the city’s narrative, enriching the visitor’s understanding.

What to Expect from the Tour Experience

The guided tour is well-paced, with knowledgeable guides like Mickey, Pat, or John providing engaging commentary. Reviews consistently praise their friendliness, storytelling ability, and depth of knowledge. For example, Jayne describes Mickey as “fantastic,” and Fiona notes that her guide “knew his history and had a good sense of humour.”

The group size tends to be manageable, allowing for questions and interaction, which many find enhances the experience. The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a broader range of visitors.

Timing-wise, it’s perfect for a quick overview—ideal if you’re short on time or want a structured introduction before exploring on your own. The cost is reasonable given the depth of stories, historic sights, and the views gained from the walls.

Practical Tips

• Wear comfortable shoes: Many stops involve walking along uneven surfaces or cobblestones.
• Bring weather-appropriate clothing: Derry’s weather can change fast, so a rain jacket or umbrella is smart.
• Arrive 10 minutes early: To ensure a relaxed start and avoid missing the beginning.
• Bring a camera: The vistas from the walls and murals are great photo opportunities.

Authenticity and Impact

What makes this tour stand out are the guides’ ability to present history with honesty and clarity. Several reviews mention how they appreciated the objective tone when discussing sensitive topics, like Maureen, who said the story was told “in an objective, non-biased way.” This approach offers a foundation of trust, especially in a city with such a complex past.

The stories about Bloody Sunday and the murals are particularly powerful, often leaving a lasting impression. Many reviewers recall specific guides, like John or Mickey, with high praise for their storytelling skills and respectful approach.

Value and Who It’s For

Considering the duration (about 70 minutes) and the price, this tour offers excellent value — especially given the personal insights, history, and views it provides. It’s perfect for travelers who want a quick but meaningful overview of Derry, whether you’re interested in history, politics, or just looking for an engaging walk with a friendly guide.

It suits solo travelers, couples, or small groups, especially those who enjoy history and storytelling. If you’re after an in-depth exploration of every corner of Derry, you might want to supplement this with more visits. However, for a solid, engaging introduction, it hits the mark.

This guided walking tour of Derry offers a thoughtfully curated snapshot of the city’s history, culture, and resilience. The combination of expert guides, stunning views from historic walls, and meaningful stories makes it a worthwhile experience for most visitors.

If you’re interested in understanding Derry beyond the surface—learning about its role in major historical events, seeing iconic murals, and walking along its ancient walls—this tour is a practical, enjoyable way to do so. It’s especially great for those who appreciate storytelling that’s engaging, respectful, and insightful.

While it’s limited in duration, it opens a window into Derry’s soul, leaving many eager to explore further on their own. Expect a friendly atmosphere, plenty of photo opportunities, and a well-paced journey through one of Ireland’s most compelling cities.

Is the tour suitable for wheelchair users?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, allowing most visitors to enjoy the experience comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 70 minutes, making it ideal for a quick overview without taking up your whole day.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins outside Level 4 of Foyleside shopping centre at 11 Carlisle Road and ends back at the same meeting point near The Diamond.

Is the tour appropriate for children?
Most reviews mention the guide’s engaging storytelling, which can be suitable for older children, especially those interested in history. However, some of the topics are serious, so parental discretion is advised.

What should I bring?
Weather-appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes are recommended. Bring a camera for the scenic views and murals.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your schedule shifts.

In the end, this tour offers a well-balanced mix of history, culture, and scenic views, making it a fantastic introduction to Derry for first-time visitors and seasoned travelers alike.

You can check if your dates are available here: