Categories: Itinerary

Our legenderry Walled City is renowed for its warm welcome, great craic, music scene and atmosphere.

With winter upon us, shorter days and darker nights, there's no better way to spend the evening than by checking out some of the city's cosiest pubs.

So whether you’re just stopping for quick one after a full day’s shopping or maybe out for an evening during a short break to the city, then you'll be spoilt for choice in Derry - Londonderry. 

Relax, unwind and enjoy the warm atmosphere these pubs have to offer. Take a step back in time in some of Derry’s oldest established pubs, as far back to the Siege of Derry of 1689. Embark on a journey exploring local brewed beers and ales, listening to local stories and always good banter.

Peadar O’Donnell’s

59-63 Waterloo Street, Derry BT48 6HD

Tel: +44 (0)28 71267295 Images of Bar

Peadar O’Donnell’s, the home of Live traditional & contemporary music in Derry.

On the premises there are 3 different bars – Peadar O’Donnell’s, the Gweedore Bar and Fifty-Seven Waterloo St.

Peadars is well known throughout the world and is a must-visit pub for locals and  tourists alike.

 Peadar O'Donnell's is famous for its live traditional music nightly, friendly atmosphere, grocer pub decor and flag collection.

Regular impromptu sessions from either local musicians or visiting performers regularly take place in Peadar's.

Whichever of their bars you would like to visit, you are always guaranteed a warm welcome, a good time.

Badgers Bar & Restaurant

(Home of the Derry Girls Mural)

16-18 Orchard Street, Derry, BT48 6EG

Tel: +44 (0)28 71363306

Located in the heart of the city nearby Derry’s most popular theatres, this venue is a popular spot for pre and après theatre drinks.

And, if you love shopping then Badger’s Bar is the perfect place to take the weight off your feet mid-spree.

For over 30 years the award-winning Badgers Bar and Restaurant has been serving the freshest in food and drink from local suppliers to its customers. You're always guaranteed a warm welcome with brilliant service from the team of dedicated, long serving staff who will spare no effort in making sure your Badgers experience is a happy and satisfying one, be you a first-time visitor or a seasoned regular to the premises.

Also, let’s not forget the perfect photo opportunity to have your pic taken with the famous Derry Girls mural commissioned by Channel 4 at this location.

The Dungloe

41-43 Waterloo Steet, Derry, BT48 6HD

Tel: +44 (0)28 7126 7716

The Dungloe Bar is situated less than 300m from the Guildhall in Shipquay Place, on the corner of Waterloo Street and High Street.

A pub in the heart of Derry City, established 1892, The Dungloe is a pub with a local feel, good beer, great food and there is always a bit of craic.

Over the years they have built up a reputation as one of the best pubs for music in the city, supporting local bands, traditional music and new talent.

It also has a large outdoor beer garden and stage for live music performances which is very popular.

This pub attracts a very mixed age group throughout the year and is very popular amongst many locals.

Lizzie O’Farrell’s

26 Waterloo Street, Derry, BT48 6HF

Tel: +44 (0)28 9049 0981

A lively vibrant traditional pub in the heart of the city centre. Live music seven nights a week, ranging from traditional music through to modern pop. Originally named and known as The Castle Bar, Lizzie O’Farrell’s is not only one of Derry’s oldest pubs, but it is also very famous for some of its ghostly encounters over the years.

Legend has it, a young girl was supposedly murdered and buried there during the early 19th century. Previous members of staff have given their accounts of their ghostly experiences that are still being reported about to this day.

Recently renovated and given a new fresh look, Lizzie O’Farrell’s is a definitely a cosy choice for punters to relax and unwind.

One thing for sure, is, that this pub has one spirit more than the rest of its competitors, will you be brave enough to have a sip on the other side?

O'Loughlin's Irish House

27-31 Waterloo Street, Derry, BT48 6HA

Tel: +44 (0)28 7100 7200

Step into this charming traditional Irish bar, where the sound of lively folk tunes fills the air as talented bands play Thursday to Sunday evenings. Enjoy the unique experience of pouring your own perfect pint of Guinness, all while soaking in the cosy, warm atmosphere complete with the craic with friendly locals.​​​​​​

For a truly cosy experience, step into The Wee Bar. Rustic, intimate and filled with vintage memorabilia, this isn’t just a place to drink - it’s a place to share the craic and create lasting memories.

Blackbird

24 Foyle Street, Londonderry BT48 6AP

Tel: +44 (0)28 71362111

A firm local and visitor favourite, the Blackbird is located a few doors up from the iconic Sandino’s Bar. It is a fantastic and comfortable setting ideal for socialising with friends over a range of cocktails or a simple pint. After a long walk around Derry’s city centre, go to this bar and have a rest here.

Take your chance to taste good craft beer, gin fizz or house wine.

The Guildhall Taphouse

4 Custom House Street, Derry, BT48 6AD

Tel: +44 (0)28 71364888

The Guildhall Taphouse is steeped in history, yet offers a fresh, alternative take on the traditional bar. Housed in a 19th Century Merchant building in the heart of the City's historic quarter, this comfortable bar is just minutes from Derry's famous Peace Bridge, the historical City Walls, and the iconic Guildhall itself.

With an unrivalled selection of Irish and International craft beers and a carefully curated cocktail menu, the Guildhall Taphouse has already established itself as a live music hub, featuring top musicians from all over the country.

Both the kitchen and bar are open seven days a week.

The Rocking Chair

15-17 Waterloo Street, Derry, BT48 6HA

Tel: +44 (0)28 7128 1200

The Rocking Chair Bar, or ‘Rocker’ to the locals, is one of Derry’s most famous pubs. Located in the shadow of the famous Derry Walls and overlooking the Bogside, we have the atmosphere of a local with the energy of a pub in the heart of the city centre.

Settle into our cosy indoor bars or soak up the festive atmosphere on our heated terrace bar with stunning views of the city. Wrap up your weekend with great vibes, great company, and a proper Christmas welcome at The Rocking Chair Bar!