Things to Do in Derry-Londonderry with Kids

Derry-Londonderry offers a surprisingly rich experience for families, and we’ve looked closely at the available tour options to help you plan your trip. It's wonderful to discover how much there is to see and do in this historic city – it really does offer something for everyone, from history buffs to those simply looking for a memorable day out.

When considering what activities are best suited for families with children, certain types of tours naturally stand out. The Walking Tours, with five different options available ranging in price from £4 to £25, appear to be a particularly strong contender. A self-guided audio tour like “Derrie Danders: A Self-Guided Audio Tour of the Walled City’s West” (currently rated 4.3/5) allows children to explore at their own pace and engage with the city's layout in a way that’s easily digestible for them. The relatively low price point – starting at just £4 – makes it accessible for most families, and the freedom of a self-guided tour can be hugely appealing when travelling with young ones who may not want to stick rigidly to a schedule.

Historical Tours also present a good opportunity for family engagement, although the range in prices – from £5 up to a significant £281 – means you’ll need to carefully consider your budget and how much detail your children are likely to retain. The sheer volume of tours available (22) offers choices catering to different interests within the historical theme; however, the top-rated “Bloody Sunday and Bogside Murals Walking Tour” (5.0/5) is a particularly powerful experience, and we would suggest carefully evaluating whether this type of tour is appropriate for younger children given the sensitive subject matter. The price range here is quite broad, so you can find options to suit different budgets.

Now let’s look at Bus Tours. There are 18 bus tours available, with prices ranging from £35 to a substantial £1,655. While these offer a convenient way to see a wider area of the region, and particularly the top-rated “Private Guided Tour of Causeway Coastal Route” (5.0/5) is frequently praised for its scenic views, they can sometimes feel less engaging for children than more active experiences. The larger group sizes inherent in bus tours might not always be ideal if your kids need space to move around or prefer a more intimate experience. However, the lower price point within this category (starting at £35) makes it an option to consider, especially if you’re looking for a comprehensive overview of the surrounding area.

For younger children, particularly those who enjoy exploring and discovering things independently, we believe that the Walking Tours offer the most straightforward and rewarding experience. The ability to set your own pace and choose which areas to focus on is invaluable when travelling with kids. For older children – perhaps those already interested in history – a Historical Tour could be a fantastic way to delve deeper into the city’s past, but again careful consideration of the price range and content is key.

If you're after a truly spectacular day trip, the Bus Tours offer an excellent chance to explore the Causeway Coastal Route – this route is consistently described as breathtakingly beautiful, and it's easy to see why! However, be mindful that the most expensive tours in this category can represent a significant investment, so choosing wisely based on your family’s interests will ensure you get the most out of your trip.

Planning a family day out in Derry-Londonderry begins with considering what appeals most to everyone. We recommend starting with a Walking Tour – perhaps “Derrie Danders” – to get an overview of the Walled City and its key landmarks. After that, depending on your children's interests and energy levels, you could explore one of the Historical Tours or consider a shorter bus tour to experience a different part of the surrounding area. Allow for plenty of breaks – there are numerous cafes and restaurants within the city centre – and don’t be afraid to let the kids lead the way! Most importantly, remember to pack comfortable shoes – you'll be doing a lot of walking!