Discover the History of Derry at the Tower Museum

Located within the historic walls of Derry, the Tower Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the city's rich history. The museum opened in October 1992 and has won four major awards since then.

The Tower Museum houses two permanent exhibitions. "The Story of Derry" tells the colourful and dramatic history of the city from earliest prehistory to the present. "An Armada Shipwreck - La Trinidad Valencera" tells the story of one of the largest ships in the Spanish Armada, La Trinidad Valencera, which sank off the Donegal Coast in 1588 and was rediscovered by divers from the City of Derry Sub-Aqua Club in 1971.

Both exhibitions use a range of display and interactive techniques to present their stories. The museum also offers a range of community engagement and outreach programs designed to foster respect and understanding of our shared heritage.

Tower Museum Derry - Gardiner Mitchell Image courtesy of Tourism Northern Ireland

The top of the Tower Museum (level 5) provides the only open-air viewing facility in the heart of the city centre, with stunning panoramic views of the inner city and River Foyle.

Entry charges for the Tower Museum are £4.00 for adults, £2.00 for children, and £2.40 for concessions. A family ticket costs £9.00 (2 adults & 3 children). The museum is open from Monday to Sunday, from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm, with the last admission at 4:30 pm.

The Tower Museum is a great spot to learn about the history of Derry and the surrounding area. The museum is conveniently located within the city's historic walls, making it a convenient stop while exploring the city.

Some other things to do near the Tower Museum include walking along the city walls, visiting the Guildhall, and exploring the Bogside neighborhood. The museum is also located close to many popular restaurants, cafes, and shops.

Reviews of the Tower Museum are overwhelmingly positive, with many visitors praising the informative exhibitions and stunning views from the top of the tower. One reviewer called it a "fantastic museum with great exhibits," while another said it was "well worth a visit."

Overall, the Tower Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of Derry and the surrounding area. With its informative exhibitions, stunning views, and convenient location, it's the perfect spot to learn about the city's rich cultural heritage. The museum's community engagement and outreach programs also make it an ideal destination for families and school groups.

The museum's Reminiscence and Dementia Awareness Program is particularly noteworthy. The program offers a range of services, including themed loan boxes and maritime roadshows, designed to engage and educate people living with dementia and their families.

Visitors to the Tower Museum can also enjoy a range of special events throughout the year, including talks, workshops, and exhibitions. Check the museum's website for the latest event listings and updates.

Overall, the Tower Museum is a great spot to learn about the history of Derry and the surrounding area. With its informative exhibitions, stunning views, and community engagement programs, it's the perfect destination for anyone interested in Northern Ireland's rich cultural heritage.

In addition to the permanent exhibitions, the Tower Museum also hosts a range of temporary exhibitions throughout the year. These exhibitions cover a variety of topics related to the history and culture of Derry and the surrounding area.

Some recent temporary exhibitions have included "The Women of the Walls," which celebrated the important role of women in the history of Derry's city walls, and "The Girona Treasure," which showcased a collection of gold and silver coins recovered from a Spanish Armada shipwreck off the coast of Donegal.

The museum's location within the historic walls of Derry also makes it a popular destination for tourists interested in exploring the city's rich history. The walls themselves are a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offer stunning views of the city and surrounding countryside.

Other nearby attractions include the Guildhall, the Bogside murals, and the Peace Bridge. Visitors can also take a short drive to explore the stunning natural beauty of the Causeway Coastal Route, which includes attractions like the Giant's Causeway and the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge.

Overall, the Tower Museum Derry is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history and culture of Northern Ireland. With its informative exhibitions, stunning views, and convenient location, it's the perfect spot to learn about the rich cultural heritage of Derry and the surrounding area.