The best walks and hikes around Londonderry

Yes, there are over 30 curated hiking routes in the Londonderry area. The trails offer a great deal of variety, from riverside paths along the Foyle to woodland walks in the surrounding country parks.

The trails around Londonderry are well-regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Hikers often praise the mix of accessible city walks and the tranquil, scenic paths found in the nearby woodlands.

Absolutely. The region has many easy trails perfect for a family outing. A great option is the Ebrington Square – Mute Meadow loop from Derry/Londonderry, which is a relatively flat and accessible walk. Additionally, Ballyarnett Country Park is a popular spot for families, offering open spaces and historical points of interest.

Yes, Ness Country Park is famous for its woodland trails that lead to Ness Waterfall, one of the highest in Northern Ireland. The park offers several well-maintained paths of varying difficulty that follow the Burntollet River through a scenic gorge.

Many of the parks and trails in the area are suitable for walking with a dog, provided they are kept on a lead. The extensive trail network in the Faughan Valley Woodlands, including places like Burntollet Wood, offers plenty of space for you and your canine companion to explore.

The region has several excellent circular routes that bring you back to your starting point. For a walk that combines history and city views, the Guildhall Derry–Londonderry – Derry City Walls loop from Rosemount is a fantastic choice. Many trails in the country parks, like those in Ness Country Park, are also designed as loops.

While many local trails are easy or moderate, you can find more challenging terrain nearby. Banagher Glen Forest Park features walks with steep inclines leading up to the dam. For a true mountain experience, the Sperrin Mountains to the southeast offer more strenuous hikes with significant elevation and rugged landscapes.

The Faughan Valley is the premier destination for woodland hiking near Londonderry. It contains some of Northern Ireland's rare ancient woodland and features over 35km of connected trails. Popular spots within this area include Ness Country Park and Burntollet Wood, both offering immersive forest walks.

The majority of trails directly around Londonderry are rated as easy or moderate, making them accessible to most fitness levels. Out of more than 30 routes, none are classified as technically difficult. You'll find mostly gentle riverside paths and rolling hills in the country parks, with steeper sections found in places like Banagher Glen.

Yes, many of the urban trails are easily accessible from the city center. For instance, you can start several walks directly from the Derry~Londonderry Train Station. For country parks like Ness Country Park, local bus services run from the city, but it's always best to check the latest timetables for routes and schedules before you travel.

Most of the established country parks, such as Ness Country Park and Burntollet Wood, have dedicated car parks for visitors. These are generally well-maintained, though they can get busy during peak times. For trails starting within the city, you will need to use public car parks.