Tours Of Derry

25/07/2025

🇮🇪 Walking Through History: Discover Derry with Ruairí Ó hEára, the Voice of the City

In the heart of Northern Ireland lies Derry City—a walled city steeped in centuries of conflict, culture, and resilience. But behind the murals and monuments is a living, breathing story. And there’s no better person to tell it than Ruairí Ó hEára, one of Ireland’s most respected political tour guides.

Whether you’re a history lover, peace studies student, or curious traveler, a political walking tour with Ruairí is not just a sightseeing trip—it’s a profound journey through the soul of a city.

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🧭 Why Choose Political Tourism in Derry?

Derry is one of the most important cities in the story of Ireland—from the Plantation of Ulster in the 1600s to the Troubles of the 20th century and the peace process that reshaped the region.

Today, political tourism is thriving in Derry. Visitors from around the world come to walk the same streets where civil rights marches sparked a movement, to hear the stories behind the murals of the Bogside, and to reflect at the site of Bloody Sunday.

This isn’t about glorifying conflict—it’s about understanding it. And that’s where Ruairí shines.

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👣 Meet Ruairí Ó hEára: The Man Behind the Story

Ruairí Ó hEára has been guiding visitors through Derry’s history since 1996. A native of the city’s Bogside area, he doesn’t just know the history—he’s lived it.

🎙️ Authentic and Balanced: Ruairí brings a thoughtful, often emotional perspective to the story of Derry. His tours cover both nationalist and unionist narratives, ensuring a nuanced, inclusive experience.

🧠 Historian & Storyteller: With encyclopedic knowledge and an engaging style, he makes even the most complex periods feel accessible and compelling.

💬 Visitor-Approved: Ruairí’s tours consistently receive five-star reviews for their depth, clarity, and personal touch. Many guests call it the highlight of their trip to Ireland.

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📍 What to Expect on Ruairí's Tour

Ruairí’s political walking tour takes you deep into the heart of Derry’s story:

Free Derry Corner – Where locals declared autonomy during the height of the Troubles.

Bogside Murals – Towering works of public art that chronicle protest, resistance, and hope.

Bloody Sunday Memorial – A poignant tribute to 14 civilians killed by British soldiers in 1972.

City Walls & Peace Lines – Symbols of division turned into tools for education and healing.

He weaves together history, personal stories, and global context, drawing connections to movements like the U.S. Civil Rights era and South Africa’s struggle against apartheid.

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🕊️ More Than a Tour—A Step Toward Understanding

Political tourism in Derry is about more than learning facts—it’s about engaging with history in a way that fosters empathy, awareness, and reflection. With conflict and division still shaping headlines today, Derry’s story offers vital lessons in resilience, peacebuilding, and the power of ordinary people.

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📞 Book Your Tour with Ruairí Ó hEára

If you want to experience the real Derry—its pain, its pride, and its path to peace—there’s no better guide than Ruairí.

✅ Private and group bookings available
🌍 Suitable for individuals, families, schools, and international delegations
🕰️ Tours run daily — advance booking recommended

🔗 Book now with Ruairí Ó hEára →

15/07/2025

A Local’s Guide to Derry Walking Tours: Discover the Derry Walls, Bogside Murals & Living History.

https://toursofderry.com/a-locals-guide-to-derry-walking-tours-discover-the-city-walls-bogside-murals-living-history/

07/06/2025

https://youtu.be/Kps5awP8Mus?si=aAF1r1_PADUO8mLe

Recorded in a burial ground that stretches back 5,000 years, Fin explores the history of Irish wakes—revealing why Irish funerals often seem like a party. Fr...

27/03/2025

https://toursofderry.com/a-trip-of-a-lifetime-in-northern-ireland/

Discover the Rich History of Derry, Donegal, and the North of Ireland with Tours of Derry and beyond.

06/03/2025

The Free Derry Wall is one of the most famous political landmarks in Ireland. It symbolizes resistance, civil rights, and the nationalist struggle during The Troubles (1968–1998).

History of Free Derry

In January 1969, the wall was first painted after police violently attacked a civil rights march. The area around it became a "no-go" zone for British forces, controlled by local communities and paramilitaries.

The Battle of the Bogside (August 1969) escalated tensions, leading to British troops being deployed in Northern Ireland.

Bloody Sunday (January 30, 1972)—one of the darkest days in Derry’s history—happened nearby when British soldiers killed 14 unarmed civilians at a peaceful protest.

The Wall Today

The original "You Are Now Entering Free Derry" message remains, but the wall is also used for murals supporting global causes, such as Palestinian rights and LGBTQ+ equality.

It’s a key stop on our tours, where you can also see the Bloody Sunday Memorial and Museum.
www.toursofderry.com

02/03/2025

The Museum of Free Derry is a museum in Derry in the North of Ireland, that focuses on the civil rights movement, the Troubles, and the events of Bloody Sunday (30 January 1972). It is located in the Bogside area, where many key events of the conflict took place.

The museum tells the story of how the people of Derry, particularly the nationalist community, fought for their civil rights in the 1960s and how the British government responded. It covers the Battle of the Bogside (1969), internment, Bloody Sunday, and the broader struggle for justice.

It was founded by the Bloody Sunday Trust, a group of relatives of those killed and wounded on Bloody Sunday. The museum showcases personal stories, photographs, documents, and artifacts related to the conflict.

www.toursofderry.com

28/02/2025

The H-Block monument in Derry's Bogside is a significant memorial that commemorates the 1981 Irish hunger strike. Here's a breakdown of its history and significance:

* The 1981 Irish hunger strike took place in the H-Blocks of Long Kesh prison in the North of Ireland.
* Republican prisoners were demanding the restoration of political prisoner status.
* Ten prisoners died during the hunger strike, which had a profound impact on Irish politics.
* The Monument:
* The H-Block monument in Derry is located at the junction of Rossville Street and Fahan Street, close to Free Derry Corner.
* Its central feature is a large stone monument shaped like an "H," symbolizing the H-Blocks of Long Kesh.
* It includes plaques with inscriptions that honor the hunger strikers who died.
* It is a location that is very important to the republican community in Derry.

* The monument serves as a memorial to those who died during the hunger strike.
* It is a symbol of republican resistance and a focal point for commemorations.
* It is located within the Bogside area of Derry, which is itself an area that is very rich with recent Irish history.
* Controversy:
* There have been instances where the legality of the monument's placement has been questioned by authorities. This highlights the ongoing sensitivities surrounding the conflict in Ireland.
In essence, the H-Block monument is a powerful reminder of a pivotal moment in Ireland's history, and it continues to hold deep meaning for many people.

22/02/2025

Exploring An Grianán of Aileach: Ireland’s Ancient Stone Fort

Nestled atop Greenan Mountain in County Donegal, An Grianán of Aileach stands as a testament to Ireland's rich tapestry of history and legend. This ancient stone fort, perched 244 meters above sea level, offers visitors panoramic views of Lough Swilly, Lough Foyle, and the rolling landscapes of Donegal. Beyond its breathtaking vistas, the fort is steeped in stories that span millennia.

A Glimpse into History

The origins of An Grianán of Aileach trace back to approximately 1700 BC, with its current stone structure believed to have been constructed during the early medieval period. It served as the royal seat for the Cenél nEógain, a dominant dynasty of the Northern Uí Néill, playing a pivotal role in the region's political and military affairs. The fort's strategic location underscores its importance, offering both a defensive stronghold and a symbol of authority.

Legends and Lore

Irish mythology enriches the narrative of An Grianán of Aileach. One legend attributes its construction to the Dagda, a chief god of the Tuatha Dé Danann, who built it as a burial site for his son. Another tale suggests a connection between the fort and the Hill of Tara, the ancient seat of Ireland's High Kings, hinting at a network of significant ceremonial sites across the island. The name "An Grianán" translates to "the sunny place," possibly alluding to its elevated, sunlit position or its role as a place of enlightenment and assembly.

Visiting Today

Today, An Grianán of Aileach is accessible to visitors eager to delve into Ireland's past. The fort underwent significant restoration between 1874 and 1878, led by Dr. Walter Bernard, ensuring its preservation for future generations. As you approach the summit, a short hike rewards you with the fort's impressive stone walls and the sense of stepping back through history. Inside, three terraces connected by stone steps invite exploration, and the surrounding landscape provides a stunning backdrop, especially during sunrise or sunset.

Why Visit?

Whether you're a history enthusiast, a mythology aficionado, or simply in search of a serene spot with unparalleled views, An Grianán of Aileach offers a unique experience. Standing within its ancient walls, one can reflect on the myriad events and tales that have shaped this land. It's more than just a monument; it's a bridge connecting the present to Ireland's storied past.

Have you visited An Grianán of Aileach? Share your experiences and photos in the comments below!
www.toursofderry.com

31/01/2025

23/11/2024

https://toursofderry.com/golf-tours-transfers/

Golf Tours & Transfers in Ireland by Ruairi O’hEara, one of the longest established & experienced group travel professionals in Ireland.

22/11/2024

21/11/2024

https://toursofderry.com/essential-things-to-know-when-visiting-derry-city/

The essential things to know when visiting Derry, including highlights of a private walking tour, food, drink and must-see attractions.