The Canadian Encyclopedia — neutral, cited, updated
July 26, 2026Sources cited
Canadianwire.
Canada’s encyclopedia & explainer
Home›Politics & World›Cities›Derry
Politics & World • Cities

Derry

Derry, officially Londonderry, is a cathedral city in Northern Ireland.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

Derry, officially Londonderry, is a cathedral city in Northern Ireland. It is the second-largest city in Northern Ireland and is known for its historic city walls, its location on the River Foyle, and its role as a cultural and administrative centre in the northwest of the island of Ireland.

Names and status

The city is commonly known as Derry but officially bears the name Londonderry. It is a cathedral city in Northern Ireland and sits within the historic County Londonderry.

Geography and population

Derry is located on the River Foyle near the border with County Donegal in the Republic of Ireland. The 2021 census recorded a population of 85,279.

History and heritage

The city is associated with early Christian settlement traditions and later received a charter in 1613 under the name Londonderry. Its walls, built in the early 17th century, remain a defining feature of the city.

Culture and economy

Derry has long been a regional centre for trade, industry, and services. It is also known for festivals and cultural events, including major Halloween celebrations.

Key facts

  • Derry is officially Londonderry, the second-largest city in Northern Ireland.
  • The city lies on the River Foyle and had a 2021 census population of 85,279.
  • Its 17th-century city walls are among the best-preserved in Ireland.
  • Derry is a cultural and administrative centre for the northwest of Northern Ireland.
  • The city's Irish-language name Doire means 'oak wood' or 'oak grove'.

Frequently asked questions

Is Derry the official name of the city?
No. The official name is Londonderry, while Derry is the more commonly used short form.
Where is Derry located?
It is in northwestern Northern Ireland on both banks of the River Foyle, near County Donegal in the Republic of Ireland.
How many people live in Derry?
The 2021 census recorded a population of 85,279.
Why is Derry historically significant?
It is known for its 17th-century city walls and its long role as a regional centre in northern Ireland.
What is Derry famous for?
Its intact city walls, riverside setting, and cultural events such as large Halloween celebrations.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Derry
    Supports: Official/common names, city status, location on both banks of the River Foyle, and 2021 population.
  2. BBC — https://www.bbc.co.uk/northernireland/schools/11_16/ks3geography/nonswf/settlement/popup/derry.shtml
    Supports: City size, location, Irish name meaning, early settlement tradition, charter of 1613, and historical economic role.
  3. Britannica — https://www.britannica.com/place/Londonderry-city-and-district-Northern-Ireland
    Supports: City and district status, Northern Ireland location, and administrative history.
  4. Visit Derry — https://www.visitderryni.com/interesting-facts
    Supports: City walls, cultural identity, and major Halloween celebrations.
  5. Irish Tourism — https://www.irishtourism.com/derry
    Supports: Location, dual-bank geography, and Irish-language naming.