Derry-Londonderry Guide

Derry-Londonderry Mural & Bogside Tours: History & Art

Explore Derry-Londonderry's iconic murals and the historic Bogside with expert-led tours that bring the city's complex past to life.

12+ tours
From $$20
1.5-3 hours

Derry-Londonderry, Northern Ireland's second-largest city, is a place where history is etched into the very fabric of its streets. Among its most compelling attractions are the vibrant political murals and the poignant history of the Bogside. These artworks are more than just paint on a wall; they are powerful visual narratives that tell the story of the city's turbulent past, its struggles for civil rights, and its ongoing journey towards peace. Mural and Bogside tours offer an essential window into this complex heritage, allowing visitors to understand the events that shaped the city and its people. Walking through areas like the Bogside, accompanied by knowledgeable guides, provides a profound and personal connection to Derry-Londonderry's story. These tours delve into the significance of each mural, explaining the symbolism, the historical context, and the human stories behind them. You'll learn about key figures, pivotal moments like the Battle of the Bogside, and the impact of the Troubles. Beyond the political, these tours also highlight the resilience and spirit of the community, showcasing how art has been used as a form of expression, protest, and ultimately, healing. It's an immersive experience that goes beyond textbook history, offering a nuanced and deeply affecting perspective on one of Northern Ireland's most historically significant cities.

Featured Mural and Bogside Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for mural and bogside tours in Derry-Londonderry

Derry City: The troubles Bogside walking tour
From $27.35
Free Cancellation

This walking tour takes you into the heart of the Bogside,see the site of the Bloody Sunday massacre, learn about all the important events, Civil Rights Association, Battle of the Bogside, Interment, The Free Derry Story,and the Peace Process.All of our guides are locals who lived through the conflict. One of our guides was also one off the co founders of the Bloody Sunday justice Campaign that inspired the second Bloody Sunday Inquiry that began in 1998.You won't be disappointed in choosing this walking tour.You can choose the time and date when you want to do this walking tour.We also provide a private car that seats four passengers incase of poor weather. This walking tour will start and finish outside the " Museum of Free Derry "in Glenfada Park in the Bogside.

5.0(502)
1h
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Private Guided Walking Tour in Derry City
From $41.03
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Derry Blue Badge is a member of the coveted TripAdvisor Hall of Fame. Its proprieter Michael Cooper has been an elected representative in Derry for many years and has also been involved in a wide range of projects related to the peace process in Derry, His team of guides also come from a range of backgrounds related to the conflict and peace process which gives visitors the opportunity to gain a unique insight into the development of the conflict and peace process in Derry. Visitors will also learn how the Irish peace process has been used as a template for other processes throughout the world.

4.9(633)
1h 45m
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Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour
From $34.19
Free CancellationNew

Guided tour: A knowledgeable guide will lead you through the Bogside, sharing insights into the city's complex history and the events that shaped it. Murals: You'll see the iconic murals that make up The People's Gallery, including depictions of civil rights, Bloody Sunday, hunger strikes and the peace mural. Bloody Sunday: You'll visit the site of the Bloody Sunday massacre, where 14 unarmed civilians were murdered by British Paratroopers in 1972. Your guide will provide context and personal stories about the event. Historical context: You'll gain a deeper understanding of the conflict, the civil rights movement, and the impact of these events on the people of Derry. Local perspectives: Your guide will share local stories, experiences, and perspectives, providing a unique and personal insight into the city's history. The tour will take you through the streets of the Bogside where the events unfolded.

5.0(6)
1h 30m
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Derry City: The Bloody Sunday Story - Walking Tour
From $27.9
Free Cancellation

The Bloody Sunday Story Walking Tour is facilitated by a brother of one of the victims who was killed that day.Some of our guides are also locals who where survivors of the Bloody Sunday massacre. Hear the story from John, one of the co-founders of the Bloody Sunday Justice Campaign where he will put forward his perspective of the historic events of the troubles and how he himself was directly affected. The tour covers the Civil Rights era, Free Derry Corner, Battle of the Bogside, Bloody Sunday, the Peace Process and the Bogside Murals.This tour begins outside the Museum of free Derry. Visitors can pick the date and times whenever you want to do this walking tour.

5.0(184)
1h 30m
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Walking Bogside History Tour in Guildhall
From $27.35
Free Cancellation

Our walking history tours look at the lasting political and social implications of Bloody Sunday and other local incidents of the Troubles. It begins at the Guildhall in city center and drops into the Bogside area from Derry’s intact city walls. Learn from survivors and family members as you trace the footsteps of the Bloody Sunday march. Our tours also pass the world-famous Bogside Murals, offering in-depth histories of each. We stop by the iconic Free Derry Corner and our tour ends at the Bloody Sunday monument on Rossville Street just across the way from the Museum of Free Derry.

4.9(274)
1h 30m
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Derry Londonderry Private Full Day Tour From Belfast
💸Special Offer
$471.79From $377.43
Free CancellationSkip The Line👤Private Tour

A Completely Unique Private Tour with a Professional Tour Guide including Private Transportation.This Tour is completely Unique in that it is not offered by ANY other company ANYWHERE in Northern Ireland.It is an amazing day out in beautiful ancient County Derry/Londonderry!This tour would suit previous visitors to Northern Ireland who have did all the other sights! You will learn about the Battle of the Bogside,Operation Motorman and Bloody Sunday.Your guide will take you through the area in which those tragic events took place, show you where thirteen civil rights marchers where shot dead by the paratroopers of the British Army, your guide who is also a local historian as well as a political activist will also take you on your own private tour of the ancient city walls where you will learn about the siege and plantation as well as the politically charged murals and street art depicting various events related to the city and beyond as well as the historic canons dotted through city.

5.0(19)
6h
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Derry Bloody Sunday The Troubles Self Guided Audio Walking Tour
From $9.75
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Learn about the history of Bloody Sunday. Our tour will take you from the solemn Bloody Sunday Monument, where a peaceful march turned into tragedy, through the heart of the Bogside, and end at the hopeful glow of the Peace Flame, a symbol of reconciliation and new beginnings. Go at your own pace, anytime. The tour never expires. You'll be guided step by step by our walking tour app. Location aware, it plays as you walk, hands free.

1h
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Derrie Danders: Highlights of the Walled City a Self-Guided Audio Tour
From $14.99
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Welcome to the historic city of Derry – or Londonderry, depending on who you ask. Ours is a city rich in complex history, and filled with locals who’ll invite you to stay and "enjoy the craic". This self-guided GPS audio tour takes you on a full circuit of the city's 400-year-old walls. I’ll point out many of the famous historical and cultural sights en route and suggest places to return to for longer visits. You may know a bit about the city from the recent comedy series Derry Girls, and we’ll visit the popular mural dedicated to the show. But on this tour you’ll also hear about: • The city's saint, St Columba / Colmcille, who first established his monastery here in 542 AD • The great Siege of Derry in 1688 and 1689 • The Troubles, which were a part of life here from 1969 to 1994 • The city's role in the second world war and the Battle of the Atlantic • Immigration during the Plantation of Ulster • Emigration during the Irish Potato Famine, or Great Famine, from 1845 to 1849

4.9(30)
40 min
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Derrie Danders: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of the Walled City’s West
From $14.99
👤Private Tour

Welcome to Derry and, in particular, the Cityside, as the western half of this historic city is known. On this walking tour, we’ll visit several locations in the west side of the city, including an area called the Bogside. Sometimes described as the cockpit of ‘the Troubles’. We’ll peruse popular murals like The Petrol Bomber, Bernadette, and the Bloody Sunday collection and, in a politically neutral way, cover some of the other sites that define the area. Fellow tour guide, Mr Terry Brown of Walled City Tours, will join us to share his perspective at some of the locations along the way. You’ll also hear stories about: • St Columba and how the sacred well was formed • The murals, monuments and memorials dedicated to the Troubles • A Victorian-era garden of tranquility in the city centre • The revival of the ancient languages of the natives and the planters • Derry pigs and what made them so happy

4.3(6)
1h
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Northern Highlights Full-Day Guided Tour in Northern Ireland
From $371.96
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

This is a full-day guided tour taking in the highlights of Belfast (optional), the beautiful Causeway Coastal Route, the Giant’s Causeway and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, with a few surprise destinations off the beaten track. This tour is aimed at the visitor who has limited time to spare on their trip to Northern Ireland. This tour will give you a great taste of the variety offered by the city, the coastline, the culture and heritage on a day-long tour from Belfast or any accomodation within Northern Ireland (additional costs apply). PLEASE NOTE THE TOUR ITINERARY CAN BE ALTERED AT SHORT NOTICE DUE TO THE TIME AVAILABLE, WEATHER OR SEASON

4.9(181)
6h
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DAY TOUR: Highlights of Derry and Donegal
From $320.21
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Given its geographical location, contrasting coastal and inland terrain steeped in ancient tradition, some would say that the North West of Ireland is truly the jewel in Ireland’s crown. Derry (or “Doire”) derived from the Gaeilge language word meaning “Oak” is a vibrant city located on the River Foyle in this region. With an abundance of historical landmarks to explore, you will be immersed in its lamentable past while attesting and embracing its transition to an energetic and dynamic city full of flavours and steeped in culture. The bordering County Donegal is a short 3km from the city. On this tour we explore elements of both. ➡️ This chauffeured private day tour is delivered by a Fáilte Ireland accredited driver guide. ➡️ This day tour is flexible and tailored for clients on the day to stop, go and explore. ➡️ Tours commence at 9am and finish at 5pm. Times are approximate and may be subject to change.

5.0(8)
7h
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Derry Londonderry Private Luxury Full Day Tour From Belfast
From $1,025.63
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Luxury Mercedes Benz Private Tour to Derry,also known as Londonderry,is a city on the River Foyle in Northern Ireland.It’s known for the intact 17th-century Derry’s Walls with 7 gates.Within the walls, spired St. Columb’s Cathedral displays artefacts from the 1688–9 Siege of Derry. Near the Peace Bridge, the Tower Museum has city views and historical exhibits. Huge stained-glass windows adorn the neo-Gothic red sandstone Guildhall. This is a Private Qualified Guided tour in your own Private Air Conditioned Minivan with privacy Glass. The tour includes a visit to the Bogside to learn about Bloody Sunday as well as the British Army's Operation Motorman and a visit to Free Derry corner with lots of opportunities for photographs along the way. After you will have lunch and we will walk around the city's ancient walls including the 16th century canon, before a visit to the peace bridge and on the way back for a drink in Ireland's highest pub the Ponderosa in the beautiful Sperrin Mountains.

5.0(8)
6h
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Peacemakers Museum Entry Ticket
From $10.94

The Peacemakers Museum explores how the North of Ireland moved from decades of violent conflict to the peace we all enjoy and maintain today. Located in the famous Bogside area of Derry in the North of Ireland. The small working class area witnessed some of the key events of the conflict including the Battle of the Bogside and Bloody Sunday. The museum explores the period from August 1972 to May 2007 to explain how the conflict evolved into the peace process and the impact of both on the local area. The museum uses artefacts, oral history, archive footage, interactive features and unique displays to explain how the Agreement was reached, its implementation and its potential implications for the future of the island.

4.8(37)
1h 30m
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Belfast to Derry Private Tour – History & Murals
From $392.55
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

Discover the cultural and political heart of Northern Ireland on this private day trip from Belfast to Derry/Londonderry, a city known for its ancient walls and modern spirit. Your English-speaking driver will take you on a scenic drive along the Antrim Coast before arriving at the 17th-century City Walls, offering sweeping views and a window into Derry’s layered past. Visit the Guildhall, a Gothic Revival landmark, and cross the Peace Bridge, symbolizing hope and reconciliation over the River Foyle. Continue to the Free Derry Corner and Bogside Murals, where striking artwork tells stories of the civil rights movement and resilience. End your visit at St. Columb’s Cathedral, one of the oldest buildings in the city, rich in history and architecture. This fully private, customizable tour blends heritage, reflection, and discovery—showcasing Derry’s transformation from a divided city to a beacon of peace.

8h
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Londonderry Private Walking Tour With A Professional Guide
From $382.54
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Londonderry is a small and pretty town dating back to the 6th century. The city is filled with history at every corner, from the Siege of Derry to the Battle of the Bogside, or the famous Bloody Sunday. It is known for its historic 17th-century city walls, which provide an exclusive promenade to view the town with its Renaissance style street plan. As you stroll around the city you will notice that it is full of history, heritage, and a vibrant cultural scene. Discover more about Bogside murals, Emigration, and Troubles in Derry on this unique walking tour.

5.0(3)
1h 30m
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Why Choose Mural and Bogside Tours in Derry-Londonderry?

In-depth Historical Context

Gain a nuanced understanding of the events, figures, and struggles depicted in the murals and the Bogside area.

Artistic Interpretation

Appreciate the artistry and symbolism of the murals, learning about their creators and messages.

Local Insights

Benefit from the perspectives of guides, often local, who offer personal connections to the city's history.

Navigating Complex History

Easily navigate key sites and historical markers with expert guidance, making the complex history accessible.

Photography Opportunities

Discover the best vantage points and understand the stories behind the most photogenic and significant artworks.

Understanding Peacebuilding

Learn about Derry-Londonderry's journey from conflict to peace, a narrative often intertwined with the murals' messages.

Types of Mural and Bogside Tours in Derry-Londonderry

Guided Walking Tours

These are the most common and immersive way to experience the murals and the Bogside. Expert guides lead you through the key streets, explaining the historical context and symbolism of each artwork. They often incorporate personal stories and insights, making the history come alive.

Expert local guidesFocus on political historyInteractive Q&AWalking distance coverageSmall group sizes often available

Bus and Walking Combination Tours

For those who want to cover more ground or have mobility concerns, these tours combine bus travel with shorter walking segments. This allows for efficient viewing of murals across different parts of the city and the Bogside, with guides providing commentary throughout.

Covers wider areasComfortable travelCommentary from guideLess strenuous optionIdeal for diverse weather

Private and Custom Tours

For a more personalized experience, private tours can be arranged. These tours offer flexibility in itinerary and pace, allowing you to focus on specific aspects of the murals and Bogside history that interest you most. They are ideal for families, groups with specific interests, or those seeking a more in-depth exploration.

Tailored itineraryFlexible paceExclusive guide attentionIdeal for groups or special interestsCan be booked in advance

What to Expect on Mural and Bogside Tours

Duration

Tours typically range from 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the route and depth of exploration. Some extended tours may be available.

Weather

Derry-Londonderry experiences variable weather. Be prepared for rain, wind, and sunshine. Comfortable, waterproof footwear and clothing are highly recommended.

Group Size

Group sizes vary. Walking tours often have smaller groups (under 15 people) for a more intimate experience, while bus tours can accommodate larger numbers.

What's Included

Most tours include the guide's commentary and access to key sites. Some may include entrance fees if a museum or specific attraction is part of the itinerary. Transport is usually included on bus tours.

Meeting Point

Meeting points are typically central, often near the Guildhall or city walls, making them easy to find. Specific details will be provided upon booking.

Costs

Prices generally start from around $20-$25 USD per person for standard walking tours, with private or longer tours costing more.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Book your tour in advance, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred date and time.

2

Wear comfortable walking shoes and dress in layers, as Northern Ireland's weather can change quickly.

3

Engage with your guide; ask questions about the history, symbolism, and personal stories behind the murals.

4

Consider visiting the Museum of Free Derry before or after your tour for additional context.

5

Allow ample time to explore the city walls after your Bogside tour; they offer a different perspective on Derry-Londonderry's history.

6

Be respectful when observing the murals; they represent significant historical events and personal experiences.

7

Don't hesitate to take photos, but be mindful of your surroundings and other tour participants.

8

Check tour operator websites for specific meeting point details and recommended arrival times.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What are the Derry-Londonderry murals about?

A: The murals are primarily political artworks that visually narrate key moments, figures, and ideologies associated with the city's history, particularly the Civil Rights Movement and The Troubles. They serve as a powerful form of storytelling and commemoration.

Q:Is the Bogside area safe to visit?

A: Yes, the Bogside is a residential area and is considered safe for visitors, especially when explored on a guided tour. The murals are a significant historical and cultural attraction, and local guides ensure a respectful and informative experience.

Q:Are these tours suitable for children?

A: Many tours are suitable for children, but the subject matter can be sensitive. It's advisable to check the tour descriptions or contact the operator directly to see if they recommend an age limit or provide content suitable for younger audiences.

Q:Do I need to book a tour to see the murals?

A: While you can see many murals independently, a guided tour is highly recommended. Guides provide essential context, historical background, and personal insights that bring the art and the area's significance to life in a way that's difficult to achieve on your own.

Q:What is the difference between a Mural Tour and a Bogside Tour?

A: Often, these terms are used interchangeably as the most prominent and historically significant murals are located in and around the Bogside area. A dedicated Bogside tour will focus heavily on the history of this neighborhood and its associated artworks.

Q:Can I take photos during the tour?

A: Yes, taking photos is generally encouraged as the murals are a significant visual attraction. However, always be mindful of your surroundings, respect the local community, and follow any specific instructions from your guide.

Q:What if the weather is bad on the day of my tour?

A: Most tours operate rain or shine, as Northern Ireland's weather is often unpredictable. If the weather is severe, operators may have contingency plans or provide extra guidance on what to wear. It's best to check the specific operator's policy.

Don't Miss the Perfect Derry-Londonderry Experience

Book your mural and bogside tours today - 12+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit Derry-Londonderry?

Walk ancient city walls, the last fully intact in Ireland, offering unique perspectives.

Discover the vibrant Bogside murals, powerful stories of Derry-Londonderry's recent history.

Experience a warm welcome and authentic Irish hospitality in this dynamic city.

Explore a city rich with 1,500 years of history, from Celtic roots to modern resilience.

Enjoy live traditional music sessions in cozy pubs, a true taste of local life.

Uncover the spirit of a city shaped by history and buzzing with contemporary culture.

Best Time to Visit

Weather

Derry-Londonderry experiences a temperate maritime climate. Summers are generally mild and pleasant, with occasional rain showers, while winters are cool and damp. Spring and autumn offer variable weather, with crisp air and beautiful autumnal colours.

Best Months

The best months to visit Derry-Londonderry are typically from May to September when the weather is warmest and driest, offering the most enjoyable conditions for exploring the outdoors and city attractions.

Peak Season

Peak season usually falls between June and August, offering the longest daylight hours and generally the most favourable weather, though it can also mean larger crowds and slightly higher accommodation prices.

Off Season

Visiting during the off-season, from November to February, means fewer crowds and potentially lower prices, though be prepared for cooler, wetter weather and shorter daylight hours.

Plan Your Derry-Londonderry Trip

Transportation Tips

Getting around Derry-Londonderry is quite manageable. The city centre is compact and very walkable, making it easy to explore the historic walls and main attractions on foot. For longer distances or reaching areas outside the immediate centre, local buses operate frequently, with day tickets offering good value. Taxis are readily available and can be booked easily for convenience. Cycling is also an option, with dedicated paths along the River Foyle. Overall, navigating Derry-Londonderry is straightforward and pleasant.

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