Holidays Travel

Travel: Where to stay when you're meeting the Derry Girls?

Don't overlook Derry if you're planning a short break in the coming months – there's lots to see and do

The Derry Girls mural in the city centre. PICTURE: MARGARET MCLAUGHLIN
The Derry Girls mural in the city centre. PICTURE: MARGARET MCLAUGHLIN

DERRY is one of my favourite cities and the last two times I visited, I stayed in the City Hotel. The hotel is a wonderful 4 star in the heart of the action, based on the banks of the River Foyle and a short walk away from the historic City Walls.

It's an ideal location to base yourself so that you can explore all Derry city and beyond has to offer. The hotel is very modern and has everything you need for a home away from home experience.

The rooms are spacious and if you book one of the superior double rooms you will get a great view of the River Foyle or the Guildhall and all the activity around.

It's one of those rooms from where you could watch the world pass you by out the window. If sitting in isn't your thing, you can head down to the leisure centre where you can swim in the pool or hit the gym. The leisure centre also caters for children as they have a great kids' pool as well as the 15 metre pool for more confident swimmers and a jacuzzi for adults to relax in.

There's so many reasons for you to visit Derry, from history and culture to your love of Derry Girls and the City Hotel is the ideal place to stay while you explore. It will not disappoint with all it has to offer from the great rooms, friendly staff and delicious food.

Its location makes getting around the city very easy as you can walk to most historic sites and if you're driving you can take advantage of what lies beyond those famous walls.

Back at the hotel, Thompson's Restaurant overlooks the River Foyle and at night it's all lit up which brings a great atmosphere. The food itself is delicious and I highly recommend the City Hotel Burger. If you're looking for a more relaxed dining experience you can head into Coppin's Bar where the food is just as good.

If you're lucky enough to stay over the weekend be sure to grab some tapas. It's the perfect excuse to catch up with friends in the hotel as the tapas are incredible, budget friendly and there's also typically drink promotions to make the night even better.

The hotel is also a great place to host a gathering with friends and family in Hervy's Terrace. I was there before an event kicked off and while the set-up was impressive during the day, it's only more incredible at night when it's all lit up alongside the city.

The Terrace is on the seventh floor of the hotel with panoramic views. It has outdoor heating so you don't need to worry about the late night breeze and is partially covered to contend with the Irish weather. It really is a special spot.

I guarantee once you visit Derry, you will be looking for excuses to book again and again.

:: rorystravelclub.com

City Hotel Derry