Derry City Walls, Londonderry, United Kingdom

Derry's walls were originally built by the Irish Society between 1613 and 1619. They were built with the intention of protecting the Scottish and English planters that had moved to Ulster as part of the Plantation of Ulster that had been established by James I. It was a direct consequence of the previous settlement being destroyed by Irish chieftain Cahir O'Doherty during O'Doherty's rebellion. As a result of the building of the city's defences by the Irish Society, which was a consortium of livery companies based out of the City of London, the city was officially renamed Londonderry in the 1613 royal charter. This is what has subsequently led to the naming dispute for the city and county of Derry/Londonderry.

The walls are at the centre of the historic city of Derry and within them are a number of Derry's most important landmarks including the Apprentice Boy's Hall and St. Columb's Cathedral.

The walls are about 1 mile in circumference and contain many of the city's most important landmarks. The entire length of the walls is fully accessible on foot. There are seven gates in total, four of which were built at the same time as the walls themselves and three were added later.

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Castles and fortifications in United Kingdom

User Reviews

Brian Skibby (11 months ago)
Amazing at dusk, great views in addition to the history.

Brian Skibby (12 months ago)
Easy to walk, great signs with information and beautiful views.

Ádám Gulyás (12 months ago)
Lovely walk. Must do when one is visiting Londonderry.

Victoria (14 months ago)
So impressive placement in the city center of Londonderry????Historical place, majestic architecture and unforgettable experience! I recommend visiting with the whole family???

The Travelling Camera (2 years ago)
Great bit of history touring around the city walls. Lots of different shops, unique cafes, pubs and restaurants. So much history in this city - not all good but all very interesting. A must see. Not easy if you’re less able bodied though.

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