Tower Museum

The Tower Museum stands inside Derry’s old city walls, in a stone tower beside Union Hall Place. It opened in 1992 with Ian Paisley and John Hume present, and was built as a flagship tourism project. Funding came from the European Development Fund and the International Fund for Ireland. The local press called the building magnificent when it opened. The tower itself dates from the 17th century and was once part of the city’s defences. Inside are two permanent displays. The Story of Derry traces the city from prehistoric times to today. An Armada Shipwreck – La Trinidad Valencera shows artefacts from a Spanish Armada vessel lost nearby. The museum also holds the Mabel Colhoun collection of local photographs and documents. A rooftop viewing deck looks over the River Foyle and the city centre. In 2021 a small model of the Hands Across the Divide sculpture was added to the collection. Visitors find temporary exhibitions that change through the year. In 2023 an exhibit on the television series Derry Girls drew record crowds. The tower’s thick walls and narrow windows give the galleries a calm atmosphere. Outside, the walk along the city walls leads past the Guildhall and down to the river. The museum’s awards recognise its clear, well-organised displays of local history.