The River Foyle curves picturesquely around the old walled town of Derry, creating
a cosy setting which jars horribly with the reality of this city's recent troubled
history. The old centre of Derry is the small walled city on the west bank of
the river, with the square called the Diamond at its heart. Barbed-wire barriers
detract from the magnificence of the city walls, though also giving resonance
to their history. From the top there are good views of the Bogside and its defiant
murals - 'No Surrender!' - and the Free Derry monument.
Inside the walls, the Tower Museum tells the story of Derry from the days of
St Columcille to the present. St Columb's Cathedral stands within the walls
of the old city and dates from 1628; it's usually surrounded by barbed wire
and surveillance cameras. Last century, Derry was one of the main ports from
which the Irish emigrated to the USA. The Harbour Museum has a small collection
of maritime memorabilia on display.
Derry is only just over one and a half hours from Belfast by bus.
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The Guildhall
This neo-Gothic style building is the civic and cultural centre for the
people of the city. There are many concerts, exhibitions and meetings
held here throughout the year. |
St. Columb's Cathedral and Chapter House Museum
The most historic building in the city, built in 1633.
Open Monday-Saturday all year;
Summer 9.00am-5.00pm.
Winter 9.00am-1.00pm and 2.00pm-4.00pm.
Groups welcome.
Admission £1 per person. |
The
Tower Museum
The Tower Museum tells the story of Derry, chronicling the history of
the city from its geological formation through to the present day.
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The Sampson Tower
Located in Farlow Wood, one mile west of Limavady, is an intriguing Gothic-style
memorial erected in 1860 to Arthur Sampson, agent for the Fishmongers'
Company.Barrontop Farm
35 Barron Road, Donemana, Strabane, Co Derry, Northern Ireland
Phone: +44 (0)28 71398649 Fax: +44 (0)28 71397976 |
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Foyle Valley Railway Museum
This museum hosts an exciting and fascinating collection of railway artefacts
including the majestic ·Columbkille· and railcars No.12
(1932) and No.18 (1942) · ex Co.Donegal Railway rolling stock,
it celebrates the outstanding railway history of the city. |
Springhill House And Costume Collection
20 Springhill Road, Moneymore, Co Derry, BT45 7NQ, Northern Ireland
Phone: +44 (0)28 86748210 Fax: +44 (0)28 86748210
A charming 17th century house with a rich and fascinating history, now
run by The National Trust. The guided tour includes the history of the
house and its family, the resident ghost and also the first-class and
colourful costume collection. There are be autiful walled gardens, estate
walks and a tea-room. The rustic 'Barn' is available for private functions
all year round. Only 1 hour from Belfast. Open April - September.
House and Costume Collection Tour: Adult: Stg£3.50, Adult Group:
Stg£2.75, Child: Stg£1.75
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Harbour Museum
Located in Harbour Square is this traditional museum, and Picture Gallery
principally dealing with the maritime history of the area. Temporary exhibitions
are regularly displayed. Admission Free.
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The Fifth Province
By using a variety of dramatic effects and audio-visual techniques, brings
to life the history and culture of the Celts.
Opening hours: Mon-Fri 9.30am-4.00pm. Admission: Adults £3.00 Concession
£1.00 Family £6.00 Group rate (over 10) Adults £2.50
Concession
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Barrontop Farm
35 Barron Road, Donemana, Strabane, Co Derry, Northern Ireland
Phone: +44 (0)28 71398649 Fax: +44 (0)28 71397976
Barrontop Fun Farm provides a unique opportunity for children to experience
feeding and handling animals and a live farm environment. Unusual animals
include; ostriches, emus, pot bellied pigs and deer. Birthday parties,
schools, playgroups etc. (During the month of December Santa is at the
farm)
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Earhart Centre and Hilltop Farm
Located at Ballyarnet. The first woman to fly the Atlantic solo, Amelia
Earhart, brought her plane down here in 1932.
Hilltop Open Farm nearby specialises in rare breeds of pigs and sheep. |