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For a short break that combines vibrant city life and wild coastal landscapes, Derry~Londonderry and Donegal has it all.
It’s easy to create a rich itinerary that combines the history and vibrancy of the city of Derry~Londonderry with the spectacular landscapes of neighbouring Donegal.
They’re ideal destinations for a short break, as flights to City of Derry airport are available from Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow, Edinburgh and Stansted. Plus, thanks to the Common Travel Area, there are no passport or visa requirements for travel between Great Britain and Ireland.
Here are six experiences to suggest for an ideal short break:
Derry~Londonderry is the only remaining completely intact walled city on the island of Ireland, and one of the finest examples in Europe. One of the best ways to appreciate the historic masterpiece is on a guided walking tour. They depart several times a day and are one of 10 attractions included in the Visit Derry Pass, which is valid for one or two days and gives a saving on admission fees.
It also includes access to the Tower Museum, the Museum of Free Derry and the Siege Museum, which all shine a light on the history of the area.
Visitors who love the popular TV show Derry Girls are spoilt for ways to immerse themselves in its characters, locations and culinary gems. Visit Badger’s Bar and Restaurant to admire a huge outdoor mural depicting the stars of the show.
Then join a Derry Girls walking or food tour to see locations used during filming. And don’t miss the Everglades Hotel’s Derry Girls Afternoon Tea, featuring a cream horn, Derry sausage roll bap and classic Tayto cheese and onion crisp sandwich!
The Guildhall is one of the most recognisable local landmarks in Derry~Londonderry, and guided tours highlight its dazzling stained glass windows, main hall and organ, and the contents of a time capsule buried under the building in 1887.
There are several other interesting sites nearby, including the ancient Saint Columb’s Cathedral, which houses artefacts from the Siege, a collection of silver Communion plates and information on famous locals.
Plus, the Guildhall is just a short walk to the city’s famous and elegant Peace Bridge, which connects the two sides of the River Foyle.
Just a short drive from Derry~Londonderry takes visitors into the heart of neighbouring County Donegal.
Malin Head on Ireland’s Wild Atlantic Way is Ireland's most northerly point, and there are plenty of ways to explore the area. Spot locations used in Star Wars: The Last Jedi on a tour, or join a rock climbing adventure or walking tour.
Looking for something quirky? Try a trek guided by a jolly alpaca with Wild Alpaca Way, or enjoy lunch at Ireland's most northerly bar, Farren's Bar.
For wild, rugged coastal beauty, the Wild Atlantic Way always delivers. Marvel at the local landscapes while visiting Fort Dunree, where there are several signposted walks travellers can follow, weaving along the majestic cliffs. Expect plenty of wildlife, including dolphins, otters and numerous species of birds.
The Doagh Famine Village uses life-sized exhibits and fascinating displays to bring the past to life. Visitors will learn about life in Ireland from the Great Famine of the 1840s to the present day.
A mere 10-minute drive away is the village of Ballyliffin, which is home to Nancy’s Barn and its popular and world award-winning seafood chowder.
These are just some of the enriching experiences clients can enjoy during a short break to Derry~Londonderry and Donegal. With these two unique places, visitors are promised one amazing holiday.
In the November issue of TTG we’ve rounded up even more of the experiences you can include when creating a two- or three-day itinerary to the north-west of Ireland. Read the full advertorial feature here.
And discover more from Tourism Ireland about how these two fantastic destinations can create the ideal short break here.
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