Join us for four days of fantastic family fun along the River Foyle at our new look Foyle Maritime Festival sailing onto Queen’s Quay Thursday 27th until Sunday 30th June! With a packed programme you will be spoilt for choice, so we have pulled together this handy 4-day itinerary to help you kick off the summer in style!
DAY 1 – THURSDAY 27th JUNE 2024
Getting Here -
There are plenty of ways to get to the historic Walled City of Derry! Fly direct from London Heathrow, Manchester, Birmingham, and Glasgow into City of Derry Airport. Or if you travel to Belfast International or Dublin Airport, then check out the Aircoach for transport from both airports which will take you directly into the city centre! For more information on getting to the city, click here.
3pm - Arrival
There is so much choice in Derry~Londonderry when it comes to choosing where to stay, with options available to suit everyone’s budget and taste. So, whether you are looking for a family friendly hotel, or a self-catering option with space for the whole family you are sure to receive a LegenDerry welcome! Explore our Accommodation options here
5pm – Dinner at Fitzroy’s Bistro
Located in the heart of the city, just outside the historic city walls you will find Fitzroy’s Bistro; a family-run business that has been operating for over 25years! With a range of dishes using locally sourced produce you will find something to cater to all tastes, even the fussiest of eaters.
7pm – A Trip to Coney Island
Head down to Queen’s Quay which has been transformed into our very own Coney Island. Reminiscent of old seaside promenades, this area is packed with family friendly entertainment including a supersize urban beach and stunning vintage funfair.
DAY 2 – FRIDAY 28th JUNE 2024
9am – Breakfast
Fuel up for the day with breakfast at The Bakery, Ebrington. Enjoy a choice of freshly baked treats from their in-house bakery or indulge in hot food from their deli-counter! Relax in their designated outdoor seating or dine picnic style in neighboring St Columb’s Park
10am – Explore the Walled City
Once you are all fed, take a leisurely stroll into Ebrington Square and enjoy the views across the River Foyle before crossing the Peace Bridge into the heart of the Walled City. Want to learn all about our history? Call into the Tower Museum – from prehistoric to present, the Story of Derry Exhibition will have the whole family enthralled with our colourful history. Fans of the award-winning Channel 4 hit Derry Girls? Walk through sets, get to know the characters, and see original memorabilia at the Derry Girls Experience.
1pm – Riding the Waves
Make your way down into the Boardwalk for a high adrenaline wakeboarding show courtesy of some of Ireland’s greatest water sportsmen and woman. Delivered by The Edge, this is a fast paced, exhilarating water sport combining surfing, water skiing and snowboarding techniques to deliver a range of breath-taking mid-air tricks and displays.
2pm – Lunch
Take a short stroll down along Queen’s Quay soaking up the festival atmosphere as you make your way to The Pickled Duck for lunch. Located right on the Quay and with a menu full of local produce there will be something for the whole family – be sure to try their ‘LegenDerry Ding’ sauce!
4pm – Far & Wild ‘SUP’ Come and Try It (prebooking essential 12+ years)
Discover a new experience at this year’s Foyle Maritime Festival with Stand-Up Paddle Boarding, and exciting fusion of canoeing and surfing. Why not step outside your comfort zone and learn how to balance and paddle while standing up on a board, all under the attentive guidance and supervision of our experienced instructors. Book Now
6pm - Beyond Blue: Imagine
A dreamlike aerial display, delivered by two illuminated sea creatures will enchant visitors along the Boardwalk each evening. The riverscape will be transformed as these floating amphibians glide and dance across the sky, their ethereal presence a nod to the power and poetry of our oceans and seas. An invitation to imagine a world beyond blue.
DAY 3 – SATURDAY 29th JUNE 2024
10am - Creggan Country Park Aquapark Fun Session (prebooking essential)
Hop in the car or take a bus and head out of the city up to Creggan Country Park for some family-friendly adventures in a controlled freshwater environment. Explore the park’s rich natural heritage and enjoy our inflatable installations for climbing, jumping, sliding and more! Book a morning of fun here
1pm – Picnic at the Beach
Relax in a deck chair, feel the sand between your toes and soak up the festival atmosphere down at the Boardwalk. Take advantage of our new picnic area – the perfect spot to chill out and enjoy a packed lunch or savor the delightful treats you’ve picked up from the market.
3.30pm - Pirates Pontoon
After lunch take a visit to Pirates Pontoon and take a tour around the stunning Tall Ships that have moored, Leader, La Malouine and Klevia; but be sure to stay on your guard as there have been reported sightings of the odd Pirate over the last few weeks. Rumour has it that a Ghost ship, invisible to the human eye, has dropped anchor somewhere on the river with the pontoon being used as a portal.
5pm – Carnival of Colours
The team from In Your Space Circus have gathered up a boatload of circus chaos with a range of acts, so you are in for some incredible treats! Make sure to stop by the ‘Baby Top Boardwalk’ to try your hand at circus skills, get your face painted or join the ‘Jellyfish Jam’ disco! See their full programme here
6.30pm - LegenDerry Food Village
Make the short walk along the quay to Pier 24 and visit our LegenDerry Food Village. Bringing together the very best of local businesses with the finest local, seasonal, sustainable produce, you will find something to suit the whole family. Whether you are craving street food which packs a flavour punch or a chance to experience some local produce with live music and a relaxed vibe, we’ve got you covered!
8pm – Beyond Blue Festival Showcase
‘A Dusk Chorus’ will begin proceedings at 8pm when a selection of choirs and folk groups sing collectively along the banks of the Foyle. As dusk descends the Quays will transform into a vibrant theatrical riverscape with specially lit Tall Ships anchoring out in the river creating a stunning backdrop for a bespoke light and fire show commencing at 9pm. Don’t miss this breathtaking event that promises to captivate and inspire. Find Out More Here
DAY 4 – SUNDAY 30th JUNE 2024
11am – Breakfast at The Scullery
Sample outstanding local cuisine at The Scullery. Enjoy the atmosphere of a vibrant coffee shop in Derry City centre catering for the needs of visitors and locals alike, specialising in breakfast and lunch – the kids will love the pancakes.
12.30pm - Lough’s Agency Marine Machines & VR Experience
Go Below Blue on a virtual trip under the surface of Lough Foyle and Carlingford Lough and encounter a vibrant and eclectic range of marine life. Get up close to a basking shark, wonder at the specimen tank filled with starfish, crabs and anemones or try your skills at some virtual angling...this is maritime with a 21st century twist.
2pm – Seahorse Boat Club
Marvel at the detailed model boats and test their sea-worthiness in our special pool. Will they sink or float?
3pm - Maritime Markets
Savour the tastes and talents of our local bakers and crafters at our bespoke Maritime Market with award-winning locally sourced produce and stunning hand-crafted goods. It’s the perfect opportunity to find that special something whether it's a gift or a family keepsake of the weekend.
