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Shaun Keenan

Six of Derry's best 'hidden gems' tucked away in the city you need to visit

Derry has a variety of places to visit no matter the climate whether that's visiting a museum or sitting in Brooke Park with some lunch.

But a lot of people who visit the city may not be aware of some of the less touristy spots to check out - and that's where we can jump in to help.

They’re all worth seeking out and spending some time exploring. Below we’ve taken a look at six of the secret, hidden and best places you need to visit in Derry.

Read more: NI takeaway's kind gesture as it makes 'free food' for under-pressure A&E staff

The Craft Village

A hidden jewel in Derry’s crown, the Craft Village is a cultural oasis in the heart of Derry city centre. A reconstruction of an 18 th Century Street and 19 th Century Square, the Craft Village provides an eclectic mix of artisan craft shops, balconied apartments, licensed restaurant and coffee shops.

The Canopy in the Village Square and the Thatched Cottage are ideal venues for corporate, cultural and community entertainment.

Ness Woods

The Country Park in the Waterside area of Derry is 55 hectares of mixed woodland along with open parkland which extends along both sides of the Burntollet River.

There is over 7km of stunning woodland and riverside walks including a magnificent waterfall walk. For the less able visitors, there is also a meadow walk which offers easy access walking.

The park also has picnic tables, wildlife ponds, wildflower meadows and a visitor centre with local information and an exhibition on woodland biodiversity.

Walled City Gifts and Coffee

This local business is ideal for those walking the iconic city walls. Situated in Artillery Street, it is a stone throw away from the heart of the city centre.

However, visitors will note the peacefulness of the Walled City Gifts & Coffee, while they enjoy an outdoor coffee and a browse at local crafts and charming gifts.

Brooke Park

Brooke Park (Tripadvisor)

Brooke Park is a favourite among the locals and it is a landmark within Derry that includes eight hectares of public park space located within the city centre.

Minutes from the town centre, the park has unparallel views of the city on a clear day while offering a chilled space for families and friends to meet up and explore its beauty.

Hidden City Cafe

The Hidden City Cafe is a warm, friendly spot specialising in vegan and vegetarian options. While not strictly vegan or vegetarian and offering chicken and seafood options, the cafe caters to all.

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.

John Hume Mural, Great James Street

John Hume mural on Great James Street, Derry (Facebook / HumeFoundation)

A new John Hume mural appeared on Great James Street earlier this year following the former Nobel Peace Prize winner's death in 2020.

The city's newest mural pays homage to a young John Hume on the side of a gable wall with the words ‘PEACE’. One of the most prominent politicians in Northern Ireland for more than 30 years, the Bogside native played a major role in the peace talks that formed the Good Friday Agreement.

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