Presbyterians have worshipped in the City since the early 1600s, and the first Church on this site was built in 1690. It was the first Presbyterian Church in the City and is still the only Presbyterian Church within the City Walls.

The 1690 Church was replaced by the present building in 1780, with the Dungiven sandstone Vestibule added in 1820, and the Portico & the four fluted columns with Corinthian capitals in 1902.  

Beautifully restored in 2011, the Church reflects many uniquely 18th century Presbyterian features, and great care has been taken to retain as much as possible of the original building. The Blue Coat School Visitor Centre, to the rear of the Church, tells the unique story of how Presbyterianism arrived in North West Ulster and develops themes such as the ancient links between North West Ulster and Scotland, Defending Derry’s Walls, Spreading the Word & Education and First Derry in the 20th century.