Derry is the second-largest city in Northern Ireland. Dating back to the 6th Century, the city is located in County Londonderry and now covers both banks of the River Foyle. Cityside and the old walled city are on the west bank and Waterside is on the east, with two road bridges and the pedestrian Peace Bridge crossing the river in-between.

The name Derry is preferred by nationalists and it is broadly used throughout Northern Ireland's Catholic community, as well as that of the Republic of Ireland, whereas many unionists prefer Londonderry; however, in everyday conversation Derry is used by most Protestant residents of the city.

The conflict which became known as the Troubles is widely regarded as having started in Derry with the Battle of the Bogside. The Civil Rights Movement had also been very active in the city. In the early 1970s, the city was heavily militarized and there was widespread civil unrest. Several districts in the city constructed barricades to control access and prevent the forces of the state from entering.

We visited Derry on our 2026 Musical Tours of the North of Ireland. We performed at Paedar O’Donnell’s Pub where we sang The Town I Loved So Well and Back Home In Derry.