Derry

So I recently headed to Derry/Londonderry with Laurie to celebrate our 5th Wedding Anniversary, I can’t believe shes stuck it out either. Unbelievably this was my first time here, but I doubt it will be my last trip to the beautiful Walled City.

FACT: Derry is the 2nd largest city in Northern Ireland

 

Where to stay

So Lauren actually picked this hotel – she mentioned it to me I think one night while I was watching Location Location Location wondering how two 23 year olds from Cornwall had a budget of £600,000 that could stretch to £700,000 if the right property came along…today I debated whether £22.50 for a new clothes horse was too dear.

Back to the Hotel, now this one blew me away. If you haven’t heard of Bishops Gate Hotel then you are most definitely missing out. This grade B listed building sits in the most convenient of locations in Derry’s Cathedral Quarter and is surrounded by a range of local amenities such as; bars, restaurants & shops.

The word boutique is so apt here, the grand revolving door that meets you, even the key holders are elegant but the real beauty within this hotel is the rooms, boasting 29 rooms and 1 apartment the rooms ooze grandeur and you honestly feel spoilt. We were lucky enough to be upgraded to the Penthouse Suite (this was not a paid visit or blog) so to get an upgrade was amazing. Honestly; that Penthouse though…

just look at the pictures below, this could be the definition of luxury.

The Bishop’s Gate Hotel truly blew me away and I can’t think of anywhere better to stay in Derry – remember to check their website for special offers, I got the Fabulous Foodie Break Package which came in at £139 for 2 persons for 1 night, this included a sweet plate on arrival, cocktails in the bar, a three course meal each and breakfast the following day. Wow

 

Where to Eat

Gown Restaurant – located at Bishops Gate Hotel this beautiful restaurant offers an excellent range of dishes which are seasonally inspired and make excellent use of local produce. Dishes include Wild Mushroom and Mozzarella Arancini,  Supreme of Chicken, Indian Spiced Lamb Rump.

£ 3 courses for £24.95

Perfect for – A romantic date

Brickwork – a new kid on the streets of Derry with an Asian twist, situated in Castle Street this über cool eatery oozes modern style – look out for the cool wall bike and their lit signage is top. Dishes include the Brickwork Burger, Kimchi chicken roll, gochujang & chipotle mayo, Asian infused beef salad, noodles, vegetables, soy, chilli, ginger, coriander.

£ – mains range from £13.95 – £18.95, you can create a sharing board of starters – 5 for £19

Perfect for – a night out with the lads or ladies

Nonna’s Woodfire Pizza – family run, authentic pizzas and a firm favourite with the locals, as recommended by @foodiederry these pizzas look incredible and I have added it to my foodie hit list – pizza is my true love in life and a trip to Spencer St is on the cards. Dishes include; Pizzas (soo many) pepperoni bites, chicken strips and more

£ – Prezzo Uno – meal for 1 £9.95 (pizzas start at £7.95)

Perfect For – Netflix and chilling

What to do

History – a place steeped in History now is your chance to explore it, I would definitely recommend a Tour of the Walls and if you get a chance to take in the murals they are beautiful, historical and memorable. Our Tour of the Walls lasted around 50 minutes and cost £4 including a free tea/coffee. Other recommendation include Guildhall, the Peace Bridge (wonderful views) and Museum of Free Derry.

Shopping – I was surprised by just how good the shopping was, you have two shopping complexes; Richmand Shopping Centre and Foyleside Shopping Centre, Foyleside is better. And then you have local craft shops, and bustling independent stores to browse at your leisure!

Art – Full of Galleries and Exhibitions you could spend a day looking a range of painting, crafts, sculptures and more. The murals are also considered as art and most sit proudly jut outside the walls. Theatre is another massive part of Derry’s culture and if this is your scene then a trip to the Playhouse on Artillery St will surely not disappoint.

Thanks for Reading

Conor