Uncovering the hidden history of Derry's St Columb's Park House
Locals invited to delve into the untold past of a hidden late Georgian gem
The Friends of the Derry Walls have announced that their highly anticipated May heritage lecture will spotlight the untold stories of one of the city’s most iconic but secretive historical landmarks.
The public talk, titled the "History of St Columb's Park House," will be delivered by Grace Nelis, Project Leader at St Columb’s Park House. The event is scheduled for Tuesday, May 19 2026, at 7.00pm, taking place directly inside the historic venue at 4 Limavady Road, Derry.
St. Columb’s Park House is a late-Georgian stately manor house complete with an original walled garden, nestled in the very heart of St Columb’s Park. Though it is a prominent local landmark, its structural evolution and the lives of its former residents remain a mystery to most local citizens.
"Hidden now by mature parkland trees, the house remains a true hidden gem with a rich history known only by a few," said a spokesperson for The Friends of the Derry Walls. "This lecture will delve deep into the personal stories of the families who once lived within its walls and explore the significant ways they helped shape the civic landscape of the city we live in today."
The lecture is completely free to attend, though the organisers welcome voluntary donations on the night to help support the ongoing heritage and preservation work of The Friends of the Derry Walls.
Due to capacity limits within the manor house, pre-registration is essential for all attendees. Members of the public can secure their free tickets online via the official Eventbrite Booking Page.