I think some of the comments made about this B&B are very unfair. We have stayed here on a number of occasions over the past 3 years, and have never had any cause for complaint either abiout the accomodation or the area.

For starters, travelers should note that Derry is still a very sketchy town. It has not yet experienced the rebound that Belfast has from the "troubles" (as the locals call it), and the "peace lines" (giant fences separating Catholic and Protestant communities) are rather disturbing. Sunbeam House is extremely convenient to the middle of Derry and is in fact the ONLY B&B in the area, but as such the neighborhood just isn't nice at all. There is a parking lot around back, but I wouldn't leave anything of value in the car. I've lived and worked in DC, NY and Chicago, so I was comfortable enough, but I wouldn't recommend walking around alone or late at night. Just be smart, and save your nights on the town for Dublin, Galway and Belfast (the city shuts down pretty early in any event).

That said, Derry should be part of any trip to Ireland and you should spend a couple days here. It's the best place to get a grasp of the history of Northern Ireland (both old and recent), and you should definitely book a walking tour of the old city.

As for the Sunbeam House, it's very quaint although a little rundown (which makes you feel at home in Derry!) Go there not expecting much and you'll be fine. The hosts are pleasant and everything is clean and comfortable enough. Breakfast was standard fare. The location makes it the best choice by far, as everything else is adequate.

Wow, what a beauty. I wasn't sure from the outside, but once in, my goodness it was just what we needed after a long, hot day on the road. John and Siobhan are very gracious hosts. The room was great for the 3 of us and the breakfast was the best. We would recommend to anyone, to come and stay there. it is close to everything you need to see and do in Derry.
The Talbot's,
Vancouver Canada

Derry was one of our favorite places in Ireland, and Sunbeam House really contributed to our impressions. It's very conveniently located--just 2 blocks from the walled city area--and the owners are wonderful, friendly and helpful. Maybe they were a bit TOO helpful in recommending a great pub whose regulars bought my husband more pints than he could handle ("C'mon, you're on holiday, son!" they kept saying). Rooms were very cheerful, top-quality beds, linens and towels. The breakfast was delicious as well. Highly recommended for a stay in Derry.