Overview
The Tower Museum is tucked inside the historic city walls of Derry (Londonderry) on Union Hall Place, just opposite the iconic Guildhall. Since opening in October 1992, the museum has earned four major awards and quickly become a favourite for both locals and visitors. Its compact five‑storey tower houses permanent and temporary exhibitions, a rooftop viewing area with panoramic views of the River Foyle, and facilities that make it a comfortable stop on any city‑walking itinerary.
History
The museum was inaugurated in the presence of political leaders Ian Paisley and John Hume, with funding from the European Development Fund and the International Fund for Ireland. Built as a public‑private partnership, it was billed by the Northern Ireland Office as a flagship tourism project. Over the years the museum has amassed a reputation for high‑quality displays, winning four major awards and being described by the local press as “magnificent”. Its collections include the Mabel Colhoun archive, a valuable resource on local history and archaeology.
What to See & Do
- The Derry Girls Experience – Step onto the set of the hit TV series Derry Girls and view original memorabilia such as Erin’s diary, Aunt Sarah’s pyjamas and the infamous Spice Girls costumes. Visitors can sit in the Quinn family’s living‑room chair and relive the show’s humour.
- DNA Preview Space – A sneak‑peek into the forthcoming DNA (Derry on the North Atlantic) Museum, slated to open in Ebrington Square in late 2027. The preview offers a taste of future exhibitions on the city’s maritime heritage.
- Viewing Platform – The top floor provides an open‑air terrace with sweeping views over the city centre and the River Foyle, perfect for a quick photo stop.
- Mabel Colhoun Collection – Scholars and curious visitors can explore a rich archive of photographs, maps and oral histories that document Derry’s social fabric.
- Temporary Exhibitions – The museum rotates special shows throughout the year; recent highlights have included a record‑breaking Derry Girls exhibition in 2023 and a maquette of the Hands Across the Divide sculpture.
Note: The original permanent exhibitions “The Story of Derry” and “An Armada Shipwreck – La Trinidad Valencera” are currently closed for restoration work linked to the new DNA Museum.
Practical Information
Opening hours
| Day | Opening | Last admission |
|---|---|---|
| Monday – Sunday | 09:00 | 16:00 |
Admission fees
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Adult | £6.00 |
| Child (5‑17) | £3.00 |
| Concession (students, 60+) | £4.00 |
| Family (2 adults + 3 children) | £16.00 |
Tickets can be purchased online or at the desk on the day. The museum accepts euros and card payments.
Contact & access
- Phone: +44 (0)28 7137 2411
- Email: tower@derrystrabane.com
- Website: Tower Museum Collections
- The venue is autism‑friendly; dedicated tours are available. An internal lift serves all five levels, the learning area and the toilets. Baby‑changing facilities are provided. Some galleries have low lighting, so visitors with visual sensitivities may wish to request assistance.
Getting there The museum is a short walk from the city centre and is easily reachable on foot from the Guildhall or by local bus routes that stop near the walls. Coach parties are welcomed, and there is on‑site parking for visitors arriving by car.
Nearby attractions While you’re in the walled city, consider a stroll to the Void Gallery, the Siege Museum, or the Guildhall – all within a few minutes’ walk. The River Foyle waterfront and the historic city walls provide additional scenic routes for a leisurely afternoon.
Enjoy a blend of history, pop‑culture, and breathtaking views at the Tower Museum – a compact yet richly rewarding stop in the heart of Derry.