Uncover the City’s Darker Side (with an Local Storyteller)

If you’re after a different perspective on Derry, this dark history walking tour could be just the thing. It’s a chance to see the city from a spooky, more mysterious angle—not through somber, tragic stories of the Troubles, but via tales of ghosts, skeletons, and legendary characters that give the city a slightly eerie vibe after dark.

What really draws me to this tour are two specific things: first, the fact that it’s led by a local storyteller, which promises a more engaging, authentic experience. Second, the fact that it takes place right on the famous 400-year-old Walls of Derry—a historic setting that adds atmosphere and a sense of stepping back in time.

A potential consideration? The tour isn’t suitable for children under 11 or anyone with respiratory issues or heart problems, so it’s probably not ideal if you’re traveling with very young kids or need a very accessible experience. Overall, I’d recommend this tour for those who enjoy stories with a touch of the supernatural, appreciate history told with a bit of flair, or simply want a different way to explore Derry after sunset.

This experience is best suited for adults or older teens who have an interest in ghost stories, legends, and the darker side of city life—especially if you enjoy a good story delivered by someone who knows the local lore intimately.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling from a local guide makes the experience more personal and engaging.
• Focus on spooky, haunted tales rather than the Troubles, giving a different perspective on Derry’s history.
• The tour takes place on the historic city walls, adding an atmospheric backdrop.
• It’s wheelchair accessible and designed as a private group for a more intimate experience.
• Duration is approximately 105 minutes, making it a manageable evening activity.
• Not suitable for children under 11 or those with certain health issues.

When you think of Derry, most people immediately picture the peaceful city walls and the stories of political conflict. However, this tour offers a different, more mysterious perspective—one that focuses on the haunted stories and legendary characters that have become part of the city’s folklore.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Setting: Derry’s Historic Walls

Starting and ending at the centrally-located Visit Derry Visitor Centre, the tour takes you for a walk around the 400-year-old Walls that encircle the city. These walls aren’t just a historical monument—they serve as a perfect backdrop for tales of ghostly encounters and spooky legends that have persisted over generations.

Walking along the walls, you’ll be able to visualize the city’s layered history, from medieval times through to modern stories, and get a sense of how the city’s past can lend itself to ghostly tales. The experience is about more than just stories—they’re about feeling the atmosphere of the city after dark, when ghosts and legends come alive.

What to Expect from the Tour

The tour lasts about 90 to 105 minutes, so it’s a solid chunk of time for an evening activity. During this walk, your guide—who is a local storyteller—will share stories of ghosts, skeletons, and legendary characters that haunt the city. These tales are not centered on the Troubles but rather on the mysterious and supernatural legends that have become woven into Derry’s cultural fabric.

The stories are crafted to entertain and intrigue, with the guide adding personal flair and local insight. As most buildings in Derry have a haunting tale or legend associated with them, you can expect to hear a variety of spooky stories that give a glimpse into the city’s darker, more mystical side.

The Experience: Atmosphere and Authenticity

What sets this tour apart is the authenticity of the storytelling. You’re not just listening to a script; a local guide shares tales handed down through generations, often with a touch of humor or dramatic flair. This makes each story more vivid and memorable.

The setting on the walls, combined with the evening or dusk lighting, creates an atmospheric environment—perfect for those who enjoy ghost stories or spooky legends. It’s a walk that encourages imagination and perhaps a little shiver or two.

The Practicalities: How It Works

The tour is designed to be accessible and flexible. It’s wheelchair friendly, and you can reserve a private group—great if you’re traveling with friends or want a more tailored experience.

The meeting point is the main entrance of the Visit Derry Visitor Centre, opposite the Maiden Heaven Coffee Shop. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it convenient to book ahead without worry. Payment is flexible—you reserve now and pay later, which is handy for planning your trip.

What to bring? Pack comfortable shoes (the walk involves some walking on cobblestones and uneven surfaces) and waterproof shoes, just in case. The guide will be speaking in English, and the tour is suitable for generally healthy adults and teens over 11.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Value for Money

At just around 105 minutes, the tour offers a good mix of storytelling, history, and atmospheric exploration without feeling rushed or dragging on. The price reflects a private group experience with a local guide—something that adds value compared to more impersonal, large-group tours. For those who enjoy stories and local legends, this experience delivers some genuine entertainment and a different perspective on Derry.

If you’re the kind of traveler who relishes stories of the supernatural or enjoys hearing about legends from locals, this tour will resonate. It’s a relaxed, atmospheric walk that offers a taste of Derry’s darker stories without diving into heavy political history, which some might find intense or sad.

The setting on the historic walls, combined with the storytelling, creates a memorable experience—perfect for an evening outing or a break from more conventional sightseeing. It’s particularly appealing if you enjoy a little spooky fun and want to get to know the city from a different angle.

Who Should Skip?

This tour isn’t for everyone. If you have respiratory issues or heart problems, or if you’re traveling with very young children, it might not be suitable. Also, if you’re looking for a tour that covers the Troubles or political history in depth, you’d likely want to consider other options.

This Uncover the City’s Darker Side tour is a charming way to explore Derry with a twist. It offers a personal, local-led storytelling experience that’s both atmospheric and fun. The focus on haunted tales and legends gives it a distinct flavor, perfect for those who like their history served with a side of ghost stories.

It’s a flexible, well-organized experience that balances entertainment with insight. Whether you’re a solo traveler, a couple, or a small group, the tour’s private setting and engaging guide make it a memorable part of any Derry visit.

If you’re after a different kind of storytelling—one that’s spooky, atmospheric, and rooted in local lore—this tour should definitely make it onto your list.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s not recommended for children under 11, mainly due to the themes and the nature of the stories, which are quite spooky.

How long does the tour last?
The walk lasts approximately 90 to 105 minutes, making it a manageable activity for a relaxed evening.

Is it accessible for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, which makes it easier for those with mobility challenges to enjoy.

Do I need to pay in advance?
No, you can reserve your spot now and pay later. You can also cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must, and waterproof shoes are recommended in case of rain or damp conditions.

What’s the meeting point?
It starts and ends at the Visit Derry Visitor Centre, opposite the Maiden Heaven Coffee Shop.

If you’re curious about exploring Derry’s mysterious side with a local storyteller, this tour offers a good blend of atmosphere, local insight, and spooky fun. It’s not for everyone, but if you love a good ghost story and a walk along historic walls, you’ll probably enjoy it more than you expect.

You can check availability for your dates here: