Categories: Press Release

Now that the longer, brighter days are upon us, it is the perfect opportunity to make plans for lots of exciting and unforgettable experiences this spring. If you’re looking to try new things and see amazing places right on your doorstep then Derry~Londonderry should be on your bucket list, explained Odhran Dunne, CEO, Visit Derry.

“The Walled City offers something for everyone”, said Odhran.  “Thrill seekers can now feel the adrenaline rush at Limitless Adventure Centre or zip through the treetops at Oakfire Adventures. You can still do the favourites like walk the iconic city walls on a guided tour, or if you want a contemporary take on the city visit the locations where Derry Girls was filmed."

In the coming months, there are numerous events and outdoor activities for all the family to enjoy as well as new experiences and lots of ways to keep entertained in our many theatres and museums; it’s a place like no other so get planning now to ensure 2023 is a LegenDerry Spring and Summer.

EVENTS NOT TO BE MISSED

A festival city renowned for its buzzing atmosphere, 2023 is jam-packed with incredible events to look out for. Here's what's happening this spring!

  • Spring Carnival – returns in all its splendor with a magical programme of dance, folklore, music, and food. On March 17th, St. Patrick’s Day the vibrant Carnival Parade will kick off from 3-4pm.
  • Walled City Music Festival -  the Walled City Music Festival returns to Derry 23-26th March for live performances with some of the world’s finest musicians. Join us for an incredible line-up of International guest artists for 2023, with pianists Barry Douglas, Cathal Breslin, Fiachra Garvey, cellist Raphael Wallfisch and mezzo-soprano Sharon Carty set to perform in Derry’s Christ Church venue in March.
  • Beyond Belief - The Life & Mission of John Hume - a major new musical drama to mark the 25th Anniversary of the Good Friday Agreement, Beyond Belief will present John Hume’s life and his odyssey for peace, the right to decent life, and the right to hope. 31st March - 7th April.
  • North West Angling Fair - A host of world class fly dressers, casters and angling celebrities will join thousands of people on the banks of the Mourne on Saturday 1st April and Sunday 2nd April when the North West Angling Fair returns to Strabane's Melvin Sports Complex.
  • Walled City Passion - get ready to see the Easter story like never before! With more drama, more action, and a whole lot more than you ever thought possible. 6th - 8th April - more information coming soon!
  • City of Derry Jazz Festival - Northern Ireland’s biggest and best jazz festival is back.  27th April – 1st May. Check out the programme of events here!

LET’S GET PHYSICAL

  • Giddy Up! - City of Derry Equestrian offers a guided horse-riding experience and is a fantastic way to connect with nature and enjoy the panoramic views of Derry, Donegal and beyond. Crindle Stables, located on a working farm and stud, offers horse riding lessons and quirky activities for the beginner to the advanced rider.
  • Far and Wild – a new Foodie Cycle Tours offer an historic view of the city and features two great culinary experiences, or you can get adventurous and enjoy a paddle boarding experience as you glide under the iconic Peace Bridge.
  • Thrill seekers - Oakfire Adventures is a mecca for thrill seekers who love canopy high tree-to-tree crossing, free fall Tarzan swings and riding super-fast very long zips.  Limitless Activity Centre offers the chance to pilot a hovercraft and operate a Powerturn Buggy go-karting or Creggan Country Park has land and water-based activities including canoeing, aqua inflatables, raft building and pier jumping.

FOOD AND DRINK

  • Wild Atlantic Distillery and Gin School - hear about the art of distillation and even distil your very own bottle of gin using a beautiful, authentic mini copper pot still.
  • Derry’s Famous Beer and Cheese Tour - hear the stories of the people producing wonderful craft brews at Northbound Brewery before a visit to Dart Mountain Cheese to meet the cheesemakers and sample the range of award winning cheeses.
  • Artis by Phelim O’Hagan - a new high end dining experience in the Craft Village, Artis is a celebration of local produce and more than 43-years of Michelin Star restaurant experience.
  • Umi Asian - an Asian fusion restaurant that serves sushi, dumplings, tapas style small plates with a fully licensed bar that serves cocktails, saké and a large wine selection.

MAKE MY DAY 

  • Visit Derry Pass - access 10 attractions and activities across the city including the iconic Guildhall, Tower Museum, Siege Museum, Bogside History Tours and The Museum of Free Derry; tours of the City’s cathedrals and churches; and access to several guided tour options that take in the bustle of the city.

REST EASY

There is a superb variety of places to stay in Derry~Londonderry so whether you like a little luxury, spa breaks, boutique escapes or family friendly accommodation, the city has it all.