Greencastle

Londonderry, also known as Derry, lies on the west bank of the River Foyle, which is spanned by two bridges. Cross the Foyle Bridge, a span bridge built in 1984, to the east bank for a stop at the ‘Top of the Hill’. Witness the spectacular views of the city and surrounding region before continuing across the Craigavon Bridge, an 18th century double-decker bridge, to the ancient walled city.

Derry is the only remaining walled city in Ireland which is completely intact and one of the finest examples of a walled city in Europe. It is approximately 1 mile in circumference and circles the original town. Each stretch of these sturdy walls carries its own tale and offers different views of Derry’s rejuvenated city centre.

Within the walls stands the impressive Guildhall, built in 1890; with its neo-Gothic design and an array of stained-glass windows telling the historic story of Derry. Enjoy a visit to this imposing building which now houses the city’s Council Chambers and Mayor’s office.

There will be free time in the city to soak up the 1450 years of history whilst meandering through the bustling streets or stop for refreshments in one of the city’s traditional pubs. For the more adventurous a stroll along the 17th century walls, will reward you with a historic cityscape and views across the Foyle bridges to Waterside and the surrounding landscapes.

Inishowen, a long broad finger of land stretching north to the Atlantic between Lough Swilly and Lough Foyle, is Ireland's northernmost point. It is arguably the most beautiful area in all of Ireland.

Along the shores of both loughs and the Atlantic Ocean, long stretches of sandy beaches are backed by sheer cliffs. Inland are some of Ireland's most impressive mountains, with the 2,019 foot Slieve Snacht dominating the centre of the peninsula. Its heritage reaches back beyond recorded history, with relics of those distant days scattered across its face.

Driving around the Inishowen is to traverse a ring of seascapes, mountains, valleys, and woodlands. It has been said that Donegal is a miniature Ireland. Relatively undiscovered by most visitors to Ireland, Inishowen is a world apart, where present-day residents revere their ancient heritage, treasure the legends and antiquities of this remote region, and still observe many traditions of their ancestors.

A stop will be made for refreshments at Doagh Folk Village. This village tells the story of customs, traditions and history of the people of Inishowen. A ‘Famine Village’ has been created giving you a firsthand account of hardships endured at that time in Irish history.

The dramatic North Antrim coast is renowned for its beauty and the UNESCO World Heritage site of the Giant’s Causeway is its unique jewel in the crown, known to the Irish as the 8th Wonder of the World.

Feel the wind in your hair as your ferry crosses Lough Foyle to Magilligan Point. Travelling along the beautiful Antrim coast, enjoy the rich colours and diverse scenery before stopping to photograph the picturesque Dunluce Castle, one of the most extensive ruins of a medieval castle in Ireland.

On arrival at the Giant’s Causeway Visitor Centre watch an interesting audio-visual presentation before boarding a shuttle bus for a short ride down to the Causeway. The unique rock formations have, for millions of years, stood as a natural rampart against the unbridled ferocity of the Atlantic storms and the rugged symmetry of the columns never fail to intrigue and inspire. Be amazed as you scan the mysterious stones and look for the structures which resemble objects such as the Organ, Giant's Boot, Camel's Hump and Chimney Stacks.

Derry’s City Walls were never breached which is why it is often referred to as ‘The Maiden City’. Arriving in the city, stop to admire the beautiful stone structure of St Columb’s Cathedral. This Gothic Cathedral, which was completed in 1633, has a fine spire, vivid stained glass windows and a total of 13 bells. In the vestibule is a mortar shell, which fell in the churchyard during the Siege of Derry in 1689.

Walking around the remarkable rustic City Walls reveals a splendid city crammed full of history, heritage, interest and a vibrant cultural scene. The city also claims Europe’s largest collection of cannons, many of them thundered in anger over the 17th century sieges. As your guide brings the past to life, view the layout of the original town which still preserves its Renaissance Style street.

Arriving in Union Hall Place, a visit will be made to the award-winning Tower Museum. "The Story of Derry" tells the colourful and dramatic history of the city from earliest prehistory to the present. The museum includes an audio visual exhibition depicting the history of the civil rights march through Derry in 1972, which later became known as Bloody Sunday. The top of the Tower Museum provides the only open air viewing facility in the heart of the city centre with stunning panoramic views of the inner city and River Foyle.