Standing on History: The Walls of Derry
Derry holds a remarkable distinction: it is the only city in Ireland — and one of very few in the entire world — whose city walls remain completely intact. Built between 1613 and 1619 during the Plantation of Ulster, these walls have never been breached, a fact that remains a source of immense civic pride and still echoes in how the city understands itself.
Walking the walls is one of the defining experiences of any visit to Derry. The circuit stretches approximately one mile and can be walked in under an hour — though those who take their time, stop at the bastions, and absorb the views will get far more from the experience.
A Brief History of the Walls
The walls were constructed by the Irish Society, a consortium of London livery companies who financed the Plantation of Ulster — which is why Derry is also known as Londonderry. Built from rubble and sandstone, they stand between 4 and 9 metres high and up to 9 metres thick in places.
Key Historical Events at the Walls
- The Siege of Derry (1688–1689): The most famous episode in the walls' history. Protestant Apprentice Boys famously shut the city gates against the forces of King James II, beginning a siege that lasted 105 days. The city endured severe hardship but held out until the relief ships broke the boom on the River Foyle.
- The Plantation Era: The walls were originally built to protect the new settler town, reflecting the political tensions of the period.
- The Troubles: The area immediately outside the walls — the Bogside — was the site of key events during the late 20th-century conflict, adding another layer to the walls' complex symbolism.
The Bastions and Gates
The walls feature six original gates and several bastions — projecting structures that allowed defenders to fire along the wall face. Each has its own history and character.
| Gate/Feature | Notes |
|---|---|
| Shipquay Gate | Faces the River Foyle; historically the main commercial entrance |
| Ferryquay Gate | The gate famously closed by the Apprentice Boys in 1688 |
| Butcher Gate | One of the original four gates; overlooks the Bogside |
| Bishop's Gate | Remodelled in the 18th century; now a ceremonial entrance |
| Double Bastion | Offers panoramic views of the Bogside and beyond |
| Roaring Meg | A famous cannon used during the 1689 siege; still mounted on the walls |
Walking the Walls: Practical Tips
- Start at Shipquay Gate — closest to the city centre and a natural starting point.
- Go clockwise — this takes you past the cannons and offers the best views of the Bogside early in the walk.
- Wear sensible shoes — the walkway is largely flat but can be uneven in places.
- Go early or late — the walls are popular; morning and evening walks are quieter and often more atmospheric.
- Take a guided tour — local guides bring the history to life in a way no leaflet can match.
The Walls as Living Heritage
Unlike many preserved historic sites, Derry's walls are not cordoned off or sanitised. They run directly through the working city — past shops, churches, pubs, and homes. You can step off the wall at multiple points, duck into a café, and return. They are used daily by locals for walking and commuting, not just by tourists for sightseeing. This living quality is part of what makes them so special.
For anyone visiting Derry, the walls are not optional. They are the beginning of understanding the city — a literal and symbolic frame through which everything else makes more sense.