The post-Open blues: What to do in the North West after the last swing
Northern Ireland has been gearing up for The 153rd Open for months – our first blog about it was way back in January.
The time has flown!
We’ve seen buses decked in golf gear, cafes in Portrush renamed after golfing heroes (big shoutout to ‘Rory and Berts’) and stay-and-play packages popping up all over the place.
Safe to say, it’s been a super exciting lead-up across the North West.
And it’s a reminder of Northern Ireland’s ability to host top-class international events and attract people from all over the world.
Before you start feeling those post-Open blues, worry not – the North West still has tons going on that’ll keep you buzzing long after the crowds have gone home.
So once the last swing has been swung, the last ball has been chipped in, and the final pint has been poured…
How about a trip to Derry?
The Foyle Cup Takes Over
From one sport to the next, the O’Neill’s Foyle Cup runs from the 21st to 26th of July, right on the heels of The 153rd Open.
It’s one of the biggest youth football tournaments in Europe and it’s held right here in the City of Derry.
Pulling in teams from places as far away as Australia and South Africa, the ‘Six Day Festival of Football' is a celebration of community spirit and international connection.
It’s a fantastic week for the city and a boost for local businesses as well as grassroots football.
Plus it does a lot for the all ‘round good vibes of the city.
With 950 teams playing 220 matches throughout the week, it’s safe to say you won’t even have a chance to miss the golf.
Buzzing Arts and Music Scene
When that’s over, there’s plenty more things to do in Derry to keep the good vibes going.
With its strong media presence, lively arts scene and vibrant music culture, the city is no stranger to big names.
Northern Ireland’s own Gary Lightbody is making a visit to the ‘Seamus Heaney HomePlace’ in August to share the inspiration behind Snow Patrol’s latest chart-topping album and his debut book, ‘The Forest is the Path’.
If you’re after a good bit of soul-searching, English singer-songwriter Nick Mulvey is bringing his world tour to the city in September.
Or for the American country lovers, there’s a Luke Combs tribute act taking to the stage in August… brown boots are optional.
There really is something for everyone in Derry.
Taste the City’s Legen-Derry Food
Does that “something for everyone” extend to food?
Yes, yes it does.
The city’s food offering is not to be missed. It’s really exploded in recent years, even being dubbed Legen-Derry by some (that includes us).
In fact…
The entire month of February this year was dedicated to the city’s thriving food and drinks industry. The renowned ‘The Foyle River Foodie Tour’ was recently featured on UTV Northern Ireland.
And there’s an annual Street Food Festival that celebrates the local chefs and producers putting their own Northern Irish spin on global delicacies along the Foyle River.
That’s at least three great excuses to make the trip to the city once the golf has ended.
We’ll see you there!
Paddleboarding the River Foyle
That’s not the only thing you can do along the River Foyle.
Ever tried paddleboarding?
Whether it’s the sport’s accessibility or the peace of being alone out on the water, the increase in popularity of paddleboarding in Northern Ireland is wild.
There’s even a woman in Belfast who commutes to work via paddleboard… but we’re not quite there yet.
It’s one of the more relaxed things to do in Derry, where you’ll float past the Peace Bridge and spot many familiar landmarks from the water.
Local guides are on hand if you fancy a bit of history along the way, or you can just drift, enjoy the view and appreciate the huge part the river plays in the culture and heritage of the city.
And even if you know the city like the back of your hand, it’s a nice change to see it from a different angle.
Pass us the oars!
The 153rd Open might have come to an end but Northern Ireland’s just getting started!
From sport to food to music, it’s brilliant to see more and more international events and activities finding a home in Northern Ireland.
To our Northern Irish diaspora, did you hop on a flight home for The Open? Would any of these things to do in Derry have you staying for more?
Stay connected with us on Instagram, Facebook, LinkedIn or X and let us know where you’ll be! You know we always love hearing from you!
Disclaimer: This content is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by The R&A or The Open. “The Open” is a registered trademark of The R&A.
