The best running trails around Derry
4.8
(17)
2,300
runners
15
runs
Jogging around Derry offers a diverse landscape for outdoor activity, blending historical urban settings with natural beauty. The city is characterized by the River Foyle, which provides extensive, predominantly flat paths, and the historic Derry Walls offering unique elevated running surfaces. Green spaces like Ness Country Park and St. Columb's Park contribute mixed woodland and open parkland, while the nearby Sperrin Mountains present options for more challenging runs. This variety ensures a range of running experiences from riverside paths to…
Last updated: October 10, 2026
2
runners
12.4km
01:17
50m
50m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
83
runners
17.2km
01:48
90m
90m
Hard run. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
runners
11.5km
01:15
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
8
runners
8.44km
00:53
40m
40m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
9
runners
13.1km
01:22
60m
60m
Moderate run. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The paths are wide and perfect for families, as there are no cars to disturb you. As you glide along the car-free cycling and hiking trails, you can enjoy the view of the water - especially when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a very special atmosphere, almost mystical. The route is mostly asphalt, but there are also some gravel sections that provide some variety. These single-track paths add a certain challenge to the route without being really demanding. Ideal if you prefer to take it easy, but still don't want to just walk on smooth asphalt. If you want to take a break, the lake offers many corners to catch your breath and have a picnic. There is enough space on the banks to rest a bit and enjoy the surroundings to the fullest.
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The beautiful Oxford Island National Nature Reserve is located on the southern shore of Lough Neagh. The reserve hosts a number of wonderful gravel and woodland trails as well as bird watching hides, a discovery centre, marina, and a bushcraft centre. The reserve is also home to a fantastic array of wildlife such as wild rabbits, badgers, otters, buzzards, and herons, so keep your eyes peeled as you jog along.
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If you wish to take the detour, a short causeway will lead you to The Starting Battery, used by the Lough Neagh Sailing Club as the starting mark for their boat races.
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Craigavon Balancing Lakes, referred locally as 'The Lakes' are a set of man-made lakes built in the 1970s to control flooding. The route around the lakes is entirely flat and follows a mixture of paved and gravel paths close to the shoreline, which creates some wonderful water views as you jog along.
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A pretty lake with a lovely path for cycling / walking around. The lake is also popular with anglers.
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Similarly to a reservoir, these balancing lakes function as a water store. However, instead of storing the water for the purposes of consumption it is utilised to temporarily store flood waters. As the surrounding areas become more built up with hard surfaces, less rain excess water is stored by soil resulting in it routing quicker into the rivers. These balancing lakes help by reducing the volume of rain water reaching the rivers, which prevents flooding. And more importantly for cyclists it has the great byproduct of providing a pretty feature for MTB trails to be built around!
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Craigavon Lakes with family friendly, traffic free, cycle and walking paths and even some single-track gravel paths.
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Test your pumping, cornering and jumping skills on this short little pump track
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many running routes are available around Derry?
There are over 140 running routes available around Derry, catering to various preferences and fitness levels. These include riverside paths, historic city wall runs, and expansive park trails.
What are the best areas for easy, flat jogging in Derry?
For easy, flat jogging, the paths along the River Foyle are ideal. The extensive embankments offer scenic, level surfaces perfect for a relaxed run. The 10km loop along the River Foyle and around Gransha Lake is a popular choice, incorporating both natural and urban landscapes.
Are there any running routes in Derry that offer historical sights?
Yes, for a unique historical run, you can jog along the promenade atop the 400-year-old Derry Walls. These walls encircle the city centre, providing panoramic views and a distinctive running experience. You'll pass various historical sites along the way.
Where can I find running trails with natural beauty and woodlands near Derry?
Several green spaces offer beautiful woodland trails. Ness Country Park features 55 hectares of mixed woodland and open parkland along the Burntollet River, with over seven kilometres of tranquil riverside walks. Gransha Woods and Faughan Valley Woodlands also provide excellent settings for runs amidst nature.
Are there any jogging routes in Derry suitable for families?
Many of Derry's parks and riverside paths are suitable for families. Areas like St. Columb's Park, Ballyarnett Park, and Culmore Country Park offer safe, accessible options away from busy roads, perfect for a family jog or walk.
Can I bring my dog on the running trails in Derry?
Many parks and open spaces in Derry are dog-friendly, but it's always best to check specific park regulations regarding leash requirements. The extensive paths along the River Foyle and in larger parks like St. Columb's Park are generally popular for running with dogs.
Are there any circular running routes in Derry?
Yes, Derry offers several circular running routes. A notable one is the scenic 10km loop along the River Foyle and around Gransha Lake. Many park trails, such as those in St. Columb's Park or Gransha Woods, can also be combined to create circular paths.
What kind of views can I expect on Derry's running routes?
Derry's running routes offer a variety of captivating views. You can enjoy stunning river views along the Foyle, cityscapes from the historic Derry Walls, and tranquil natural scenery in parks and woodlands. The Peace Bridge, often incorporated into routes, provides iconic views of the river and city.
Are there any challenging running routes for experienced runners near Derry?
For more challenging runs, the Sperrin Mountains, a short drive from the city, offer diverse trails and stunning landscapes, perfect for those seeking significant elevation changes and a more demanding experience. Within the city, some park trails like those in Gransha Woods can also offer cross-country elements and hill sprints.
What do other runners say about jogging in Derry?
The running routes in Derry are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 16 reviews. Runners often praise the diverse terrain, from flat riverside paths to historical city runs, and the beautiful natural settings found in the parks and woodlands.
Are there any running routes that feature waterfalls near Derry?
Yes, Ness Country Park, located near Derry, is home to a stunning waterfall. The park offers over seven kilometres of tranquil riverside walks through mixed woodland, making it a beautiful spot to incorporate a waterfall view into your run. For more information, you can visit nidirect.gov.uk.
Where can I find information about other country and forest parks for running around Derry?
Derry and its surrounding areas boast several country and forest parks ideal for running. For a comprehensive list and details on these green spaces, you can refer to the information provided by visitderry.com.
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