Derry: a unique place to visit for families with children

Derry: a unique place to visit for families with children

April 11, 2025

Derry, also known as Londonderry, is a city that offers an unforgettable experience for families with children. Combining rich history, modern culture and picturesque scenery, Derry is the perfect destination for a family trip full of discovery and adventure. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through the highlights of this charming Irish city, which are sure to delight young and adult explorers alike. From fascinating museums to green parks to colorful murals, Derry has a lot to offer every member of the family. Get ready for an unforgettable journey through time and space that will stimulate the imagination and provide plenty of fun for the whole family!

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Fascinating journey through history in Derry's museums

Start our adventure in Derry with a visit to two unique museums that will give you an interactive look into the history of this fascinating city.

The first stop is the Tower Museum, a true gem among Derry's attractions. This is a place that will take you on a journey through the ages, from prehistoric times to the present day. The museum is housed in a restored 16th century tower, which in itself is already an amazing experience for children. We particularly recommend the exhibition on the Spanish Armada, which surprises with its interactivity and wealth of exhibits. Children will be delighted to 'steer' the ship or try on period costumes. Also not to be missed is the view from the museum's rooftop, which offers a panoramic view of the city and the Foyle River.

The Tower Museum is also famous for its temporary exhibitions, such as the one dedicated to the popular series 'Derry Girls,' which can be an added attraction for older children and teens. It's worth noting the affordable ticket prices, making the place ideal for families on a budget.

Another spot on our map is the Museum of Free Derry, which provides an accessible look at the city's more contemporary and uneventful history. This museum, though it tackles difficult topics, does so in a way that is understandable and engaging for younger visitors as well. Interactive displays and multimedia presentations help to understand Derry's complicated history in the context of the civil rights struggle.

Particularly valuable is the opportunity to talk with the guides, who often witness the events described. This is a unique opportunity for children to 'touch' history and understand its impact on the present. The museum is relatively small, but each exhibit is carefully selected and discussed, making the visit an intense but memorable experience.

Comparing the two museums, the Tower Museum offers a broader historical perspective and may be more suitable for younger children due to its interactive exhibits and variety of topics. The Museum of Free Derry, on the other hand, while focusing on a narrower historical period, provides a deeper understanding of the city's recent past and may be of more interest to older children and teens.

Regardless of your choice, both provide an excellent introduction to Derry's fascinating history and are a must-see for families visiting the city. Remember that souvenirs can be purchased at both museums that will remind you of this remarkable trip back in time for years to come when you return home.

Relax and have fun in the green heart of Derry

After a busy visit to the museums, it's time to take a breather and relax surrounded by nature. Derry boasts beautiful parks that are perfect for families looking for a place to picnic, play or just take a quiet stroll.

Let's start with St. Columb's Park, a true green oasis in the heart of the city. This sprawling park offers many activities for families with children of all ages. Here you'll find playgrounds suitable for different age groups, playing fields for team games and even a tennis court. It's the perfect place for children to run off excess energy while parents relax on one of the many benches spread throughout the park.

St. Columb's Park is known for its well-maintained green spaces and cleanliness, which parents of young children in particular will appreciate. The park is also pet-friendly, so if you're traveling with your four-legged friend, he'll have a great time here, too. Note the swimming pool located within the park - a great option for hot days.

Another place worth visiting is Derry's Brooke Park, often referred to as 'People's Park'. This park, although slightly smaller than St. Columb's, has its own unique charm and atmosphere. Located on a hill, it offers beautiful views of the city, which can be an added attraction for the whole family.

Brooke Park is famous for its beautifully maintained gardens and old, majestic trees, which make a picturesque backdrop for family photos. There is a modern playground for children, and older children can enjoy the outdoor gym. A unique attraction in the park is Gwyn's Café, where visitors can relax and enjoy local delicacies.

Comparing the two parks, St. Columb's Park is definitely larger and offers more opportunities for active recreation. It is ideal for families with energetic children who need plenty of space to play. Brooke Park, on the other hand, due to its location and more intimate nature, may be a better choice for families looking for a quieter place to relax and picnic.

Both parks are free and available year-round, making them a great option for families traveling on a budget. It's worth planning a visit to both places to fully experience the green face of Derry.

Remember to bring along a picnic blanket, snacks and maybe even a ball or frisbee - these parks are just asking for family fun outdoors! This is the perfect opportunity to take a break from sightseeing, recharge your batteries and create unforgettable memories surrounded by the beautiful Irish countryside.

Artistic side of Derry -. Discovering the city through the lens of murals

To conclude our family adventure in Derry, I suggest something that is sure to be memorable for kids and adults alike - a tour of the city's famous murals, with a special focus on the Derry Girls Mural.

Derry is famous for its remarkable murals, which not only beautify the city, but also tell its story. This is a great opportunity to introduce children to the culture and history of this fascinating place in an interactive way. Walking in the footsteps of the murals is like wandering through an open book of history - each mural has a story worth learning.

A special point on this route is the Derry Girls Mural, inspired by the popular comedy series. This colorful and vibrant mural is located in the heart of the city, at 18 Orchard Street. It depicts the main female characters of the series and is not only a great backdrop for family photos, but also a great excuse to talk to children about contemporary Northern Irish culture.

Derry Girls Mural is not only an attraction for fans of the series. Its vivid colors and realistic portraits are sure to delight the little ones as well, becoming a starting point for a conversation about street art and its role in shaping the city's identity. It's also a great opportunity to teach children how art can reflect and comment on social reality.

It's worth noting that the mural is close to the city's other attractions, making it an ideal point on a sightseeing tour. Nearby you will find many cafes and restaurants where you can relax and talk about your impressions of the tour.

Walking along the mural trail, with the Derry Girls Mural as a focal point, is not only a lesson in history and art, but also great fun for the whole family. It's an opportunity to explore together, take photos and create unforgettable memories. Children can play detectives as they search for hidden details in the murals or make up their own stories inspired by the paintings.

To sum up our tour of Derry, it's worth noting how diverse the city's attractions are for families with children. From educational museums to relaxing parks to fascinating murals, there is something for everyone. Derry is a place that not only teaches and entertains, but also inspires conversation and reflection, making it an ideal family destination.

Remember to take lots of photos during your visit - not only at the murals, but also in the parks and museums. These memories will be a treasured memento of your family adventure in Derry. And who knows, maybe this trip will inspire your children to create their own works of art when they return home?

Derry is a city that is sure to delight the whole family with its charm, history and contemporary culture. Regardless of the age of your children, you will find attractions that will make this trip memorable. Derry is waiting for you - ready for an unforgettable family adventure?

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