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Belfast Live
Belfast Live
National
Shaun Keenan

Ten of the best things to do in Derry this weekend

Derry is packed with brilliant things to see, do and experience.

We've put together a list of 10 things to do in and around the place, whether you've grown up in the city or coming along for a visit.

There's so much on our doorstep, so no matter what your age and interests, you'll find something to do.

Read more: Derry council outlines changes to services including bin collections

There's also something to suit all budgets - you'll find lots of free things to do, and some you'll need to spend a bit of cash on, but we're sure you'll think it's worth it.

1. Visit the Derry Walls

Derry Walls (Photo By Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live)

This top attraction site in the city is entirely free. Built-in the 17th century, the walk around the walls reveals a splendid city crammed full of history, heritage, interest and a vibrant cultural scene.

2. See a production at the Derry Playhouse

Derry Playhouse (Derry Playhouse Website)

The Playhouse, along Artillery Street, is notorious for putting people on their feet after its five-star productions.

This weekend visitors can see 'The 39 Steps' which is based entirely on Alfred Hitchcock's 1935 adventure film.

Starring Warren McCook, Jonny Everret, Rachel Harley and Conan Hamilton, the show is filled with dangerous femme fatales, dastardly villains, deadly assassins, and lightning-fast costume changes.

3. Get some of the best Mexican food you'll ever have at Derry's GUAPO.

On the fringes of the city centre, GUAPO offers fresh Mexican food like you've never had before.

Known for their swift and friendly customer service, the GUAPO crew offer a wide range of fresh, fast and delicious homemade Mexican food.

4. Go to Derry's Waterloo Street pubs

4/7//2021 FIFTY SEVEN WATERLOO STREET Photo By Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live Derry/Londonderry. (Justin Kernoghan/Belfast Live)

The pubs along Waterloo Street are a bit of an institution at this stage. It's a hotspot for tourists coming along and who want a bit of a traditional sing song at the weekend.

If you'd like a nice pint of Guinness, then this is the place for you.

5. Walk over Derry's Peace Bridge

Peace Bridge in Derry (Justin Kernoghan / BelfastLive)

Just a short walk from the Guildhall and the City’s famous 400-year-old Walls, the curves of this 11-year-old cycle and footbridge tells a story of triumph over adversity and is a symbol of peace.

Since its launch in 2011, the Peace Bridge has become an integral part of the City’s infrastructure and is held in high regard by locals and visitors alike.

6. Enjoy a vegetarian lunch at the award-winning Hidden City Cafe

Visitors can sit back, relax and enjoy the colourful front faces of the buildings opposite. It is an incredibly welcoming spot for all who come in the door.

The cafe has long been a favourite with vegetarians and vegans in Derry.

7. Learn more about Derry's history at the Tower Museum

Located within the historic city walls of Derry~Londonderry the Tower Museum is a must-see visitor attraction.

With permanent exhibitions at the museum including The Story of Derry and An Armada Shipwreck – La Trinidad Valencera, the Tower Museum should be top of your list for places to visit.

8. You can also learn about the city's troubled past at the Museum of Free Derry

Museum of Free Derry (Google Street View)

The Museum of Free Derry is the people’s story of the struggle for civil rights, the descent into conflict, Free Derry and Bloody Sunday.

If you love your history, then this is the place to visit.

9. Buy some books from Little Acorns Bookstore

Little Acorns Bookstore is the largest independent bookstore in the North West of Ireland.

Floor-to-ceiling books with its own children’s section, Little Acorns Bookstore is somewhere to get lost.

Owner Jenni Doherty has been running her own bookshop for 10 years and moved into Foyle Street in the summer of last year.

Seriously, if you get the chance, make sure you pop in.

10. End your day at the Craft Village

A gem in the heart of the city, the Craft Village offers a range of distinctive delights in what is the hidden jewel in Derry's crown.

Dickensian in appearance and delightful in layout, the place has something for everyone and it the perfect way to your day.

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