10 things to do in Derry-Londonderry as new flights launch from Glasgow Airport

Derry-Londonderry is the second-largest city in Northern Ireland yet it often overlooked by its arguably more alluring Irish sisters Belfast and Dublin.

The city is also the only remaining completely intact walled city in Ireland which was built as defences for early 17th century settlers from England and Scotland. This lasting piece of history creates a cosiness in the city and no doubt sparks intrigue with visitors wanting to know more about its past.

And with close transport links to Donegal and Belfast, Derry-Londonderry also provides the perfect stomping ground to further explore Ireland.

This is why now is the time to visit and experience that charm for yourself especially with Loganair having recently launched a new route from Glasgow Airport.

With reasonably priced direct flights in under an hour, there is no excuse not to check out the 'beautiful wee city' especially when there is so much to do...

Take the Bogside History Tour

In Derry-Londonderry, you will find no one gives you their second name because everyone seems to know each other. That was the case with tour guide George who introduced me to the history of the city's Bogside, and his first name only.

The area is synonymous with Bloody Sunday which those living in the Bogside don't quite rightly forget. Murals telling the stories of the people of the Bogside during that massacre pour out of the walls of homes in the area. The emotion still felt raw as George took me through what happened on that day on January 30, 1972 when British soldiers shot 28 unarmed civilians during a peaceful protest march against internment. Those paintings were created by the Bogside artists who painted several murals on the walls of the Rossville Street buildings. This is their tribute to both the Battle of Bogside and Bloody Sunday. There are a total of 12 murals on the street which is named The People's gallery and their work has been exhibited around the world.

The Bogside also features heavily in the hit Channel 4 series Derry Girls with Dennis's Wee Shop a must visit for fans of the show.

George spoke about the Bogside and its people with pride. He recounted tales of all the famous names to have ventured into the area before taking me to the famous 'You are now entering free Derry' sign. The tour was not an historical one, it was the perfect introduction to the people of Derry-Londonderry and just how far they have come since that dark moment in their history.

Visit the museum of Free Derry

When in the Bogside you will not have to venture far to discover the Museum of Free Derry. The museum opened in 2007 and provided a place to tell the story of what happened in the city during the period 1968 to 1972. That story includes the civil rights era, Battle of the Bogside, Internment, Bloody Sunday and Operation Motorman.

During my visit to the museum, John Kelly recounted the events of Bloody Sunday when he lost his 17-year-old brother Michael. A passionate campaigner to bring justice for the families, John spoke about the city at that time and the day itself. He described how the death of his younger brother tore his mother's heart out and the raw emotion of the impact the death had on his family had me in tears. History tours are offered all over the world but it is a rarity to find one which includes the people who were involved in that moment in time. This experience made my visit to the Museum of Free Derry unique and meeting courageous John is something I will never forget.

Visit the Siege Museum

History buffs will not have to look far to get their fix in Derry-Londonderry with the city packed with informative museums about the past. The Siege Museum remembers one of the landmark events in British and Irish history. For 105 days up to 30,000 Protestant people held the walled city in the face of the Catholic King James II, until the relief fleet broke the boom across the River Foyle on July 28 and the Jacobite forces commenced their retreat on August 1, 1689. The siege is commemorated every year by the Apprentice Boys of Derry who as organisation have 10,000 members worldwide. During my tour of the museum, I learned about the history of the organisation and the fact that each member must travel to Derry-Londonderry to formally join.

Have lunch at Soda and Starch

You won't be stuck to find places to eat in Derry-Londonderry but the perfect brunch spot has to be the charming Soda and Starch.

The city's newest restaurant is located in the authentic craft village and specialises in local seafood.

During my Hallowe'en visit, pumpkins were big on the menu and the restaurant's chefs used the fruit to their advantage creating some spectacular dishes.

Soda and Starch offers the sort of food that not only warms your heart but creates the perfect Instagram shot.

Take in Guildhall

Located in the heart of the city, you can't miss Guildhall which is simply stunning. It is worth checking out their programme of events as you will usually find that there is something interesting to see.

Don't miss the Peace Bridge

The Peace Bridge offers beautiful views across the River Foyle especially at night. A walk across the bridge is worthwhile to give you a chance to explore the city even more. It opened in 2011 and has become an iconic structure for the city. It is particularly striking at night.

Drink at Walled City Brewery

If you walk across the bridge from the city centre, you won't have to go far to find Ireland's Best Gastro Pub. The Walled City Brewery is modern yet it has a real charm about it. Owner James Huey explained that he opened up the venue after earning his brewing stripes with Guinness where he worked for 12 years. His wife had a natural passion for food and through their combined efforts they have created a pretty cool spot in the city. Even if you don't like craft beer - something I shamefully have to admit I don't - the food is worth the walk over the Peace Bridge. The staff are friendly and the pub has a real family feel, with a unique offering you are unlikely to find anywhere else.

Eat at the Brickwork

This is the type of place that offers a menu to suit all tastes. The Brickwork has a cool vibe and a great atmosphere with live music amongst the offerings.

Visit Derry-Londonderry at Hallowe'en

Although we are now in the midst of the festive season, my 2019 recommendation is for you to consider visiting Derry-Londonderry at Hallowe'en. USA Today named the city as the Best Hallowe'en Destination in the World, and it is easy to understand why. The city simply comes alive for this unique celebration, and it is unlikely you will experience Hallowe'en anywhere else in the world in such a spectacular style as you would in Derry-Londonderry. A highlight of the city's Hallowe'en programme is the Awakening of the Walls. All sorts of spooky things appear on the city walls for the special nightly event and the theatrical experience is one that will shake you to the core. The city also hosts a carnival parade and fireworks display on the big day itself - and you will literally be the odd one out if you don't dress up for the occasion.

Speak to the locals

It is rare to go somewhere and feel like a member of the family. Derry-Londonderry has to be one of most welcoming places I have visited, and it is purely down to the people. They want to talk to you, they want to know your story and they want to tell you about great their 'beautiful wee city' is. That is something a tourist board can't manipulate, and it is that charm that stays with you when you leave the city...and makes you want to go back.

Loganair operates a direct service from Glasgow to Derry from Thursday through to Monday. Lead-in fares commence at £49.99 each way and all bookings include 20kg of complimentary luggage. An in-flight service is included, with student fares and a 33 per cent discount for children available. Reservations can be made via www.loganair.co.uk or by calling 0344 800 2855.