Sip, Don't Drive: Your Guide to Derry Cocktail Week 2026

11th Aug 2026

Something exciting is coming to Derry/L'Derry this August. Derry Cocktail Week 2026 is a first-of-its-kind event celebrating the city's thriving hospitality and drinks scene. And it’s shaping up to be one of the highlights of the summer calendar. 

Ten days. Dozens of venues. Signature cocktails from just £5. It’s the kind of event that needs a proper plan of how to get there and back safely. That’s where Aircoach comes in. 

As the official travel partner of Derry Cocktail Week 2026, Aircoach is here to make sure you arrive comfortably, affordably, and safely. No designated driver needed. No parking headaches. Just show up, sip, and enjoy. 

What is Derry Cocktail Week?

Derry Cocktail Week is a brand-new, inaugural event running from 21st - 30th August 2026. Known for its warm hospitality, vibrant food and drinks scene, and a growing reputation as one of Ireland's most exciting destinations, the city is ready to raise a glass in style. 

The concept is refreshingly simple. Purchase a wristband online, then use it to unlock a world of exclusive perks across all participating venues throughout the 10-day celebration. This includes: 

  • Signature cocktails from £5
  • Exclusive food deals
  • Two for one offers

Confirmed stops include Walled City Brewery, Guildhall Taphouse, The Ebrington Hotel, Blackbird, City Hotel and Martha's Vineyard. With new venues still being announced. 

Check out the official Derry Cocktail Week event guide for the full and up to date list of venues and offers.

Aircoach: Your Official Travel Partner for Derry Cocktail Week 2026

Planning a night (or ten) of cocktails across the city calls for a solid travel plan. That's exactly why Aircoach is the official travel partner of Derry Cocktail Week 2026, because getting there should be the easy part. 

When you travel with Aircoach, you can skip the stress entirely: 

  • No need to worry about parking
  • No need to nominate a designated driver
  • No hefty taxi fares eating into your cocktail budget

Aircoach's 705X is the only direct coach service connecting Dublin City Centre and Dublin Airport to Derry/L'Derry, via Belfast Grand Central Station and Belfast International Airport. It’s the perfect option, whether you’re travelling from Dublin, Belfast or flying in from further afield.

Our coaches are equipped with everything you need for a relaxed, comfortable journey to Derry Cocktail Week including: 

  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Reclining seats
  • Onboard toilet
  • Charging ports
  • Air conditioning

Leave the driving to us. Sit back, charge your phone, and start planning your venue list before you've even arrived. 

How to Get to Derry/L'Derry with Aircoach

If you’re travelling from Dublin to Derry, you can board in Dublin City Centre (O’Connell Street) or at Dublin Airport (Terminals 1 & 2). With up to 22 daily services running to Derry/L’Derry, there’s plenty of flexibility to find a departure time that suits your cocktail week plans. 

From Belfast, board at Belfast Grand Central Station or Belfast International Airport for a direct service to Derry/L’Derry. 

No matter where you’re travelling from, the 705X drops you off at Foyleside Coach Park. It’s right in the heart of the city and only a short walk from most participating cocktail week venues. So you’ll be supping on your first drink before you know it.

We recommend booking your ticket in advance online in order to secure your seat and get the best fare. 

Get Your Tickets and Get Going

Derry’s first ever cocktail week is not going to be an event to be missed and with Aircoach handling the travel, the only decision left to make is which bar to visit first.  

Here’s a reminder of everything that you need to know about Derry Cocktail Week 2026: 

  • The event runs for 10 days from 21st - 30th August 2026
  • Wristbands can be purchased online via Fatsoma
  • Aircoach tickets to Derry/L'Derry start from as little as £19/€20 
  • Travellers aged 14–21 get a 20% discount on Aircoach tickets (just remember, you'll need to be 18+ to take part in Cocktail Week itself!) 

Book online now to secure your seat and the best prices. Aircoach will get you there safely, comfortably and with a little more left in your pocket for that extra cocktail.

Book your seats today to take advantage of our great offers. Book Now