Bishop’s Gate Hotel is ideally located within the historic city walls in the heart of Derry City’s Cathedral Quarter providing the perfect base to explore Derry’s iconic tourist landmarks including the historic Walls, St. Columb’s Cathedral, The Guildhall, The Tower Museum and the iconic Peace Bridge.
A shopper’s paradise, Bishop’s Gate Hotel is minutes from the city’s main shopping district, Foyleside Shopping Centre and Richmond Shopping Centre with many independent stores close by, find out more about the Independent Derry industry by clicking here
Also on the hotel’s doorstep are the Millennium Forum and Playhouse theatres along with Derry Void which offer exciting programs of events & exhibitions.
Steeped in history, Derry is the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland and one of the finest Walled Cities in Europe. Named by Lonely Planet as the fourth-best city to visit in 2013 and awarded the first-ever UK City of Culture in 2013, Derry’s diversity and vibrancy make it a destination with something for everyone.
TOP THINGS TO DO IN DERRY
Our team have compiled a list of our top things to see and experience whilst you are in the Walled City, we also regularly share updates on events taking place on our blog.
Take a tour of the City Walls
Derry-Londonderry is the only remaining completely walled city in Ireland and one of only a few across Europe with fully intact city walls. The 400-year-old City Walls offer a great vantage point to see many of the attractions in the city to help you find your bearings and to plan your path for exploring. There are many information points along the walls providing information about our city's history.
One of the best ways to gain a more in-depth insight into the history of the city is to take a guided tour with a local tour guide such as:
Recently Derry has received world-wide publicity for being the location of the popular TV series Derry Girls created by talented local writer Lisa McGee. Some tour guides are now offering tours based on filming locations used by the TV series. If you would like to find out more about these tours speak with our Reception Team during your visit who can provide accurate, up to date, information.
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Take a stroll along the Peace Bridge and explore our Greenways
Opened in 2011 as the 3rd bridge to span across the River Foyle and as the first footbridge to link the city side and waterside areas of the city. The Peace Bridge has been designed to represent a “Structural Handshake” between the city's communities to show regeneration and the peaceful era our city has moved into.
In 2012 the city council invested in revamping our city’s riverside area to create a new walkway and cycle paths which link from Craigavon Bridge through Ebrington Square and St Columb’s Park to Foyle Bridge and along the west bank including access to the Peace Bridge.
Whether you are looking for a relaxing walk after dinner or an energising morning run there are lots of options available within easy access of Bishops Gate Hotel, speak to our team for more details.
Visit The Guildhall
Our city's town hall was originally built in 1887 and has recently received a £9.5m restoration to its stunning stained glass and architectural features. The Guildhall provides a civic function but is now also a central hub for visitors exploring the city with a multifaceted tourism experience including building tours, temporary and permanent exhibitions including a special collection of the world renowned peace accolades awarded to the late John Hume.
Entrance to the Guildhall is free.
Learn about our rich history in our city museums
Our city has such a varied history, from shirt making to emigration to maritime history. There are a number of museums within walking distance where you can learn more including the Siege Museum, Museum Of Free Derry and Tower Museum.
Check out the Arts & Music scene
In 2013 the city of Derry-Londonderry became the first ever UK City of Culture, this was an exciting year for the area as many events took place for the first time including the Turner Prize Art Exhibition and Radio 1’s One Big Weekend Event.
Since then the cultural industry has continued to grow and to thrive. During your stay with us check out the art exhibitions at the Void Art Gallery, or a dance performance at Echo Dance Theatre.
The Bogside artists have created an outdoor art gallery in the Bogside area of the city which highlights some important events in our city’s history, each of the murals features an information point so you can explore at your leisure or detailed walking tours can be arranged also.
Visit our Local Theatres
The Millennium Forum and Playhouse Theatre are both located within walking distance of Bishop’s Gate Hotel and offer a wide choice of shows to suit all tastes.
The Waterside Theatre is just a few minutes drive from our location.
The Wig and Gown Champagne Bar and Restaurant serve food daily and so whether you would like to enjoy a light bite or full dinner service before the show our team will be happy to help cater for your needs.
Tour our Historic Churches
Derry boasts 2 cathedrals along with a number of churches which date back to the 17th Century.
Our neighbour, St Columb’s Cathedral is the city's oldest building, built-in 1633, the cathedral team offer tours of the building and grounds to give visitors a chance to learn more about the “The Promised Chalice” and “Heroes Mound” amongst other stories.
Construction on St Eugene’s Cathedral, the city’s Roman Catholic Cathedral began on 1849. Located just a short walk from our hotel and visible from the city walls. Due to changes in the design of the windows and bell tower work was not completed until 1903.
Also close to the hotel is St Columba’s Church, Long Tower, which has become famous in recent years after it featured in the global hit TV series “Derry Girls”.
Treat yourself to a Shopping Trip!
With both the Richmond Centre and Foyleside Shopping centre just a short walk from the hotel you will be spoilt for choice when it comes to shopping. The shopping centres have a range of well-known high street brands and close by are many popular local independent stores such as Argento, Walled City Crafters, Sass & Halo, Pippa Boutique and Different Class Menswear.
Relax in Bishops Gate Hotel!
After a busy day exploring the city and all it has to offer there is no better way to relax and unwind than with a drink in the Wig & Gown Champagne Bar and Restaurant! During your stay with us make sure that you sample all that the hotel has to offer including afternoon tea, a wide range of champagne and cocktail options and our in-house fitness room.
Our building has its own rich history, being over 100 years old, during your visit speak to our team to view our hidden well and find out more about our story.
Visit Derry has collaborated with Tourism Ireland to create this wonderful video showcasing some of our local area's great features:
