Bishop'S Gate Hotel

DerryUnited Kingdom 54° N · 7° W Updated Oct 2026

Nestled within the historic city walls of Derry, Northern Ireland, the Bishop’s Gate Hotel stands as a magnificent testament to the city’s rich heritage and…

View map

Bishop’s Gate Hotel is a Grade B1 listed Edwardian building in Derry’s Cathedral Quarter, inside the historic city walls. Built as the Northern Counties Club, it combines original period features with modern hospitality and is close to Bishop’s Gate, the 17th-century Bishop’s Palace and other city landmarks.

The hotel provides a base for exploring Derry’s history, museums, galleries and cultural attractions. For planning information, see the Bishop’s Gate Hotel Official Site and Visit Derry.

History

The building was constructed in 1899 as the Northern Counties Club and became a gathering place for Derry’s social and political elite. Notable visitors included Winston Churchill, WB Yeats and Edward Carson. Its location just inside the city walls, beside Bishop’s Gate and near the 17th-century Bishop’s Palace, places it among the city’s historic landmarks.

The hotel’s restoration retained original Edwardian features while adapting the building for modern use. The hotel’s Grade B1 listing recognises its architectural and historical importance. Its restoration is credited with boosting local employment and tourism; it received Tourism NI’s Giant Spirit Award in 2022 and TripAdvisor’s Best of the Best Hotels in the UK recognition.

Bishop’s Gate was constructed in the early 17th century as part of Derry’s fortifications and named for the adjacent Bishop’s Palace. It played a defensive role during the 1689 Siege of Derry. Later Edwardian modifications sit alongside the original structure. The monument is described as a symbolic entrance to the Cathedral Quarter and as “the only fully intact city walls in Ireland.” Derry is also described as Ireland’s only fully walled city.

What to see

Hotel architecture and events

The hotel’s Edwardian features include:

  • A grand staircase with an intricate banister.
  • Stained-glass windows showing period craftsmanship.
  • Chandeliers, detailed plasterwork and other ornate décor.
  • A portrait gallery featuring dog portraits.
  • Original wood panelling and stained glass, alongside en-suite bathrooms, Wi-Fi and energy-efficient systems.

The hotel hosts themed dinners, exhibitions and live music celebrating local heritage. Its restored Northern Counties Ballroom is used for weddings and private gatherings. Architectural and heritage tours explore the building’s history and place in Derry’s urban landscape; advance booking is recommended.

The staircase, stained glass, views of the city walls and Bishop’s Palace, and the Cathedral Quarter’s historic streets and pubs are among the area’s photographic locations.

Bishop’s Gate monument

The outdoor monument is accessible year-round and has no admission charge. Local operators include it in guided walks of Derry’s city walls, which typically last 1–2 hours. The gate is also a focal point for events including the Derry Halloween Festival and Foyle Maritime Festival.

Practical visiting information

Hotel visiting hours, entry and check-in

The stated visiting hours for the hotel are:

  • Monday to Saturday: 10:00 AM–10:00 PM.
  • Sunday: 12:00 PM–8:00 PM.

No general admission ticket is required to enter the hotel’s public areas or use its dining and bar facilities. Private guided tours of the building are available by appointment. Tours may require booking; enquiries can be made through the official website.

Room check-in is from 3:00 PM and check-out is by 11:00 AM. For apartments, check-in is from 4:00 PM and check-out is by 11:00 AM. Reception is staffed 24/7.

Accessibility and facilities

The hotel has two fully accessible guestrooms, as well as ramps, lifts, adapted rooms and accessibility assistance. Contact the hotel in advance about specific requirements. Travel cots are available on request.

The hotel offers complimentary Wi-Fi, non-smoking rooms and designated smoking areas. Adaptors, transformers and extra supplies are available; UK plug type G adaptors are available at reception.

Parking, transport and contact details

Secure valet parking costs £18 per 24 hours and includes unlimited entry and exit. EV charging is available, with pre-booking advised. Public pay-and-display car parks are nearby.

The hotel is accessible by car, train and bus. Derry is pedestrian-friendly, with local buses and taxis. City of Derry Airport is 12 km away; Belfast International Airport is a 90-minute drive. Car rental is recommended for exploring beyond the city. Parking near the walls is limited, and public transport or cycling are alternatives.

Two addresses and sets of contact details are given:

  • 20 Bishop Street, Derry, BT48 6PP, Northern Ireland.
  • 24 Bishop St, Derry~Londonderry BT48 6PP.
  • Phone: +44 28 7126 6666.
  • Phone: +44 28 7114 0300.
  • Email: [email protected].
  • Email: [email protected].

Rooms and apartments can be booked online or by phone. Early contact is advised for special requests or reservations. Custom directions and printable guides are available in the official hotel FAQs. The listed website is https://www.bishopsgatehotelderry.com/faqs.html.

Dining

The Gown Restaurant and afternoon tea are popular, and advance booking is recommended. Special-occasion enhancements are available on request. The hotel’s dining and bar venues are described as the Wig and Gown Champagne Bar and Restaurant; elsewhere, they are named the Wig Champagne Bar and Gown Restaurant. They are open to non-guests.

Tips

  • Derry’s dual name, Derry/Londonderry, reflects its history; respect local sensitivities. Guided tours offer further context.
  • Derry is generally safe; exercise standard precautions. The hotel has 24-hour reception and secure parking.
  • Summer is mild, with an average high of 16°C/61°F, and has lively festivals. Autumn brings fewer crowds and scenic colours. The weather is changeable, so bring layers and rainwear.
  • The hotel concierge can assist with luggage and local recommendations.
  • The hotel newsletter provides updates. Social media is also mentioned as a source of updates and exclusive offers.
  • The Audiala app is described as offering audio tours, personalized guides and tips for exploring.

Nearby places

Derry’s walls and historic landmarks

Derry’s city walls date from 1613–1619. They are among Europe’s best-preserved fortifications, enclose the heart of the city in a mile-long circuit, and have seven gates, panoramic views and historic cannons. The walls are open year-round from 9:00 AM–5:30 PM, with last entry at 5:00 PM; entry is free. Guided tours are available daily. See Vagabond Tours and Ireland on a Budget.

The Cathedral Quarter is best explored in daylight, between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM. Bishop’s Gate itself is accessible at all times. It is within walking distance of Derry City Centre, and City of Derry Airport is 12 km away. There is limited parking near the walls.

Nearby sites include the Diamond, Craft Village and Tower Museum. The Bishop’s Palace Museum showcases Georgian architecture and local history.

Other landmarks include:

  • St Columb’s Cathedral Completed in 1633, it is Derry’s oldest building and a symbol of Protestant heritage. It holds artifacts from the Siege of Derry and has notable stained glass. Hours are Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–4:00 PM, and Sunday, 12:00 PM–4:00 PM. Entry is free; donations are welcome.
  • The Guildhall This neo-Gothic landmark was built in 1890. It has stained-glass windows and hosts exhibitions. It is open Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Entry is free, and guided tours are available on request. See Ireland on a Budget.
  • The Peace Bridge Opened in 2011, it connects historically divided communities and offers scenic walks. It is open 24 hours and free to access.
  • The Derry Girls mural The colourful mural on Orchard Street celebrates the Channel 4 series. Self-guided tours highlight filming locations. See Vagabond Tours and Ireland on a Budget.

Museums, murals and arts

  • Tower Museum Inside the city walls, it features “The Story of Derry” and “An Armada Shipwreck.” Hours are Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM, and Sunday, 12:00 PM–5:00 PM. Tickets cost £7 for adults and £4 for concessions and children.
  • Museum of Free Derry Documents the civil rights movement and Bloody Sunday. It is open Tuesday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–5:00 PM. Tickets cost £5 for adults and £3 for concessions and children.
  • The People’s Gallery The Bogside murals reflect key moments in Derry’s political history; guided tours are available.
  • Art galleries The Centre for Contemporary Art and Millennium Forum host exhibitions.

Museum information is listed by Visit Derry. Gallery information is also available from The Tourist Checklist.

Events, food and outdoor walks

Derry’s events include the Derry Halloween Festival, Foyle Maritime Festival, and jazz, food and arts festivals. The city’s food scene includes Irish traditions, modern dining, food tours and local specialities. Hotel dining is also listed by Ireland on a Budget.

Glenfada Park and the City Centre Garden of Reflection offer green spaces, while the Foyle riverside walk is suited to walking and cycling. See The Tourist Checklist and Visit Derry.

Malin Head and Glenveagh National Park are day-trip destinations along the Donegal coastline. See The Tourist Checklist.

Planning and further information

The hotel is centrally located, and the Visit Derry Pass offers discounted entry. Walking, food and themed tours are available. Most attractions are accessible, but check with individual venues for details. Several public car parks are near the city centre.

High-quality images and virtual tours are available on the official Bishop’s Gate Hotel website. Images and virtual tours of Bishop’s Gate are available on the official Derry tourism website; up-to-date information is also available on the official Derry tourism page. Images and interactive maps are available on official tourism sites.

Further reading:

Sources:

FAQ

Are there entry fees to visit Bishop’s Gate Hotel or the monument?
No general admission ticket is required for the hotel’s public areas, and the outdoor monument is free to visit. Tours may require booking. Many other attractions are also free, while some museums charge admission.

What are the hotel’s visiting hours and check-in times?
The listed hotel visiting hours are Monday–Saturday, 10:00 AM–10:00 PM, and Sunday, 12:00 PM–8:00 PM. Room check-in is from 3:00 PM and apartment check-in from 4:00 PM; check-out for both is by 11:00 AM. Reception is staffed 24/7.

When can I visit Bishop’s Gate and the city walls?
Bishop’s Gate is accessible at all times. The city walls are open year-round, 9:00 AM–5:30 PM, with last entry at 5:00 PM. The Cathedral Quarter is best explored between 9:00 AM and 6:00 PM.

Can non-guests dine at the hotel?
Yes. The Wig and Gown Champagne Bar and Restaurant are open to visitors.

How can I book a guided tour?
Private hotel tours are available by appointment and can be booked through the official website or by contacting the hotel. Local operators also run city-walls tours, including Bishop’s Gate.

Is the hotel family-friendly, and are pets allowed?
Families are welcome, though some events may have age restrictions. Travel cots are available on request. Contact the hotel to confirm its pet policy.

Is Bishop’s Gate wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The monument and nearby areas are wheelchair accessible, with accessible restrooms and parking nearby. Cafés and public rest areas are available in the Cathedral Quarter.

Are the city walls and other attractions accessible?
Some parts of the city walls are wheelchair accessible; check for suitable routes. Most attractions are accessible, but details should be confirmed with each venue.

Is parking available?
Yes. The hotel offers secure valet parking for £18 per 24 hours, with unlimited entry and exit, and EV charging with pre-booking advised. Public pay-and-display car parks are nearby; several public car parks are near the city centre, while parking by the walls is limited.

Can I book dining in advance?
Yes. Advance booking is recommended for The Gown Restaurant and afternoon tea.

Where can I buy tickets for nearby attractions?
Tickets for museums can be purchased online or at the venues. Many sites are free, and the Visit Derry Pass offers discounted entry.