Fodor's Expert Review Derry City Walls

Established under a charter by James I in 1613, Derry is among a small but distinctive coterie of places throughout Europe that have preserved their ancient ramparts, which are Northern Ireland's largest state monument and an enduring backdrop to daily lives. Built between 1614 and 1618, the walls today allow you to get a feel for Derry's deep history by strolling along the parapet walkway and pausing on a platform at Grand Parade where the cannons date from 1642 and are inscribed with the name of the London company which commissioned them. Pierced by eight gates (originally four) and as much as 30 feet thick, the gray-stone ramparts are only 1½ km (1 mile) all around. In 2019 the Royal Bastion (a projecting section) and Plinth were redesigned and adapted for educational purposes. This area is accessible to visitors but may be entered only by using the key available from the Siege Museum, just a few meters away in Society Street. On your walk, take a break at a strategically placed café or simply drink in the local atmosphere. In summer when the walls are awash with tourists, "ambassadors" are on hand to point you the right way.