Londonberry On Your Own

OVERVIEW

Spend hours browsing independently in downtown Londonderry, whose most historical district lies within some of the best-preserved fortified walls in Europe. If you wish to focus on the landmarks, St. Columb’s Cathedral is a fine starting point as it was erected in 1633. Its Chapter House Museum holds rare artifacts such as the huge padlocks to Derry’s original gates and furniture from the famed Thomas Chippendale. History will come to life at the Tower Museum, where you cansee exhibits that detail events ranging from Derry’s founding to Bloody Sunday, an infamous event in 1972 in which British troops killed 26 civil rights protesters. A bit closer to the River Foyle, you will find Guildhall, a Gothic administrative building with 23 stained-glass windows that depict guilds for the likes of carpenters and musicians. The city center is also a prime shopping district with an eclectic mix of traditional and quirky stores that carry every sort of merchandise imaginable.

HIGHLIGHTS

• Spend hours exploring Londonderry independently and at your own pace.
• Maximize your time by focusing on the attractions most suited to your interests.
• Behold landmarks such as the Derry Walls and explore lesser-known sites if you wish.

HELPFUL HINTS

• Dress in weather-appropriate clothing.
• Wear flat comfortable walking shoes.