THE city of Derry is simply bursting with fun things to see and do and following recent openings there are now even more experiences to enjoy on a day trip or short break.

The bustling city is known for its historic walls which dominate the centre of town and for the striking Peace Bridge which spans the River Foyle.  The varied night life, wide selection of shops and restaurants and the warm welcome of the locals are also a huge draw for visitors. But now this vibrant city has even more to offer with the much anticipated opening of the new Siege Museum and the Walled City Brewery.

Ruth Burns, Tourism Northern Ireland’s PR Marketing & Destination Manager explains why a trip to Derry~Londonderry should be on everyone’s agenda:

“County Londonderry has a wide range of things to see and do and following appearances in Lonely Planet’s ‘Best in Travel Guide’ as well as being the recipient of the prestigious ‘UK City of Culture’ in 2013, the City of Derry continues to surprise and entertain all who visit.  This year there are even more reasons to visit as the brand new Siege Museum opens as well as the Walled City Brewery which offers a really different day out for everyone”, concluded Ruth.

The new Siege Museum and Exhibition officially opens on December 4 and chronicles the colourful history of Derry~Londonderry with the use of interesting artefacts, mesmerising videos and interactive media. Visitors can explore rooms designated for each of the orders including the Apprentice Boys of Derry, the Orange Order, the Women’s Orange and the Royal Black Institution.

The Walled City Brewery, which is Derry~Londonderry’s first craft brewery for a century, is the brainchild of James Huey who spent 12 years brewing with the largest beer company in Ireland.  The Walled City Brewery has local, authentic, premium quality and flavoursome craft beers inspired by ancient recipes and new-world brewing techniques.  As well as enjoying drinks, visitors can also sample some tasty cuisine served in the restaurant which specialises in local, slow-cooked food.

Whilst in Derry~Londonderry other must-visit places are:

The Craft Village is located between Shipquay St and Magazine St and combines quirky craft shops, balconied apartments, a restaurant and coffee shop, perfect for a day shopping with friends or family.

Those with a love of history will appreciate the two permanent exhibitions at The Tower Museum. ‘The Story of Derry’ tells the colourful and dramatic history of the city whilst ‘An Armada Shipwreck – La Trinidad Valencera’ tells the story of one of the largest ships in the Spanish Armada which sank off the Donegal Coast in 1588.

Visitors looking for somewhere to take the kids for the day should try the Riverwatch Aquarium and Visitor Centre and as the admission is free, this excursion won’t break the bank. Families can learn about local wildlife whilst watching fish swim as well as lobster, crabs, starfish, coalfish and blenneys.

The Museum of Free Derry focuses on the civil rights campaign which emerged in the 1960’s and 1970’s. It tells the people’s story and has an archive of over 25,000 individual items relating to this period, most of which were donated by local residents.

For an afternoon of history and culture, visit Saint Columb’s Cathedral which is the city’s most historic building. The Cathedral was originally built in 1633 by William Parrot and the current tower and main building are that of the original cathedral with the spire added on in 1821.

The Peace Bridge was launched in 2011 and since then has become an iconic structure for the city connecting two sides of the River Foyle. With over three million crossings to date, the Peace Bridge has become a focal point in city activities and events including the New Year celebrations and launch of City of Culture as well as providing a backdrop to Radio 1’s Big Weekend.

Day and night life highlights include:

The city is a shopper’s paradise with something to suit everyone. Shopping options include Foyleside Shopping Centre, the Richmond Shopping Centre, Quayside Centre and of course the unique Craft Village and Austin’s Department Store.

Fashionistas can enjoy browsing the many designer boutiques dotted throughout the city centre and visitors can have their pick from a range of traditional Irish gifts, stone crafts and handmade jewellery.

A short break to Derry~Londonderry should include a visit to the Millennium Forum which is the first purpose built theatre in the city and has the largest theatre stage in Ireland. The Forum offers a challenging and vibrant programme of events from drama to dance, comedy to musicals and light entertainment to children’s shows.

The Gweedore pub has long enjoyed a reputation as a mecca for pop and rock music and is the ideal place to spend an afternoon with friends whilst Peadar O’Donnell’s is famous for its live traditional music, friendly atmosphere and fun pub décor.

The Ritz gives visitors a unique hospitality experience where the authentic character of a traditional pub blends with the relaxed atmosphere of a modern bistro.

Visitors will find a cosy atmosphere and fabulous local food at the The Grand Central Bar and at night becomes a fantastic place to listen to local live music.

Located within the city walls, Masons Bar is a great spot for tourists and offers food and live weekend entertainment. Visitors are also given the chance to pull their own pint of Guinness.

Enjoy a short break by staying at one of the many hotels available in the city:

The Everglades Hotel is offering overnight accommodation with full Irish breakfast including two course evening meal with a bottle of house wine from only £55 per person sharing. Available until December 13.

The Maldron Hotel is offering two night’s bed and breakfast midweek from only £89 per person sharing until December 13.

Visitors should try the City Hotel where they can enjoy two night’s bed and breakfast on a weekend from £99 per person sharing. Available until December 13.

When it’s time to relax after a fun day of sightseeing then try The Drummond Hotel in Limavady where a two night dinner inclusive package can be enjoyed from £50 per person sharing until November 30.

For more details on these and other events click on www.discovernorthernireland.com, visit your local tourist information centre or log onto www.facebook.com/discovernorthernireland.