The best walks and hikes around Derry

Yes, many trails in the area are suitable for walking with a dog, provided they are kept on a lead. Woodland paths like those in Ness Country Park and the Faughan Valley are popular choices. Always check local signage for specific restrictions, especially in areas with livestock or protected wildlife.

Ness Country Park is your best option. It's home to the Ness Waterfall, which is the highest in Northern Ireland. The park features over 7km of well-maintained woodland and riverside walks along the Burntollet River, making for a very scenic hike.

For an easy and accessible walk, the Dungannon Park loop is a great choice. It's a short, gentle trail through pleasant parkland. Another excellent option is the River walk at The Argory, which offers a peaceful stroll along the river on mostly flat terrain.

The The Argory Country House loop from Laghey provides a lovely circular route of just under 5 km. It's an easy walk through gentle countryside, perfect for a shorter outing.

Yes, for more strenuous climbs head to the Sperrin Mountains. This Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty offers wilder, more rugged terrain. A popular challenge is the ascent of Sawel Mountain, the highest peak in both County Derry and County Tyrone, which rewards hikers with expansive views.

Absolutely. You can walk the historic 17th-century City Walls for a unique 1.5 km urban hike with panoramic views. For a longer walk, a path follows the River Foyle south from the city, offering a peaceful escape from the urban centre.

Hikers in the area often head to a few key spots. Ness Country Park is highly regarded for its beautiful woodland trails and waterfall. For a more rugged experience with stunning views, the Urris Lakes Loop is a local favorite, though you'll need good walking boots. Burntollet Wood also offers pleasant, accessible paths suitable for a variety of fitness levels.

Many trails, especially those within Derry city like the City Walls and River Foyle path, are easily accessible on foot or by local city buses. For parks and trailheads further afield, such as in the Sperrin Mountains or Ness Country Park, bus services may be limited. It's best to check Translink NI for specific routes and timetables in advance.

Most of the established parks and trailheads, such as Ness Country Park and Dungannon Park, have dedicated car parks. However, spaces can be limited, especially on weekends and holidays. For more remote routes in the Sperrin Mountains, parking is often informal at the side of the road, so please park considerately.

The weather in Northern Ireland can change quickly, so waterproofs (jacket and trousers) are essential, even on a sunny day. Sturdy, waterproof hiking boots are recommended, especially for mountain and woodland trails which can be boggy. Always bring water, snacks, a fully charged phone, and a map or a navigation app like komoot.

The trails around Derry are highly rated by the komoot community. Reviewers often praise the variety, from the peaceful riverside paths to the accessible woodland walks. The well-maintained trails in places like Ness Country Park and the stunning views from the Sperrin Mountains are frequently mentioned as highlights.

The Faughan Valley Woodlands contains a network of over 35km of trails connecting several woods. You can create a longer hike by linking different sections, such as the 8.5km Valley Trail. For a moderate day out, the Derryadd Lake loop from Laghey is over 9 km and offers a satisfying circuit.