The best walks and hikes around Lisbunny

Yes, the region offers several enjoyable loop trails. For a moderate circular route, consider the Ness Country Park – Wooden Bridge in Forest loop from Claudy. This 5.2-mile (8.4 km) walk takes you through scenic woodlands and across a charming wooden bridge.

Dogs are generally welcome on many trails, but they should be kept on a lead, especially in areas with wildlife or near farmland. The woodlands and country parks, such as Learmount Forest and Ness Country Park, are good options for a walk with your dog, provided they are kept under control.

Yes, you can find one of Northern Ireland's highest waterfalls in nearby Ness Country Park. The Waterfall – Woven Mushroom Sculptures loop from Claudy is a 6-mile (9.7 km) hike that takes you right to this impressive natural feature, along with other interesting sights in the park.

The area is well-suited for easier walks. A great option for families and beginners is the Learmount Forest Walk via Learmount Castle — Sperrins. It's a gentle 1.7-mile (2.8 km) path that follows the River Faughan and passes the historic Learmount Castle, making it an engaging and manageable outing.

While most trails immediately around Lisbunny are easy to moderate, more challenging hikes can be found in the nearby Sperrin Mountains. This extensive range offers wilder, more rugged terrain with significant climbs. Routes like the Craignamaddy Circuit or Robbers Table provide a tougher test for experienced hikers.

The hiking is primarily characterized by well-defined paths through forests, country parks, and along riverbanks. You'll encounter gentle slopes and rolling hills rather than steep mountain climbs. The trails in places like Learmount Forest and Ness Country Park feature a mix of woodland tracks and riverside paths with generally low elevation changes.

The trails around Lisbunny are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.9 stars. Hikers often praise the peaceful atmosphere of the ancient woodlands, the well-maintained paths, and the scenic beauty of the river valleys.

Most of the main walking areas have dedicated parking. Both Ness Country Park and Learmount Forest have visitor car parks that serve as convenient starting points for the trails within them. Arriving early on weekends is recommended as these spots can become busy.

Accessing the trailheads directly by public transport can be challenging as the area is quite rural. The nearby village of Claudy has some bus services, but you may still need a taxi or a significant walk to reach the start of some routes. Using a private vehicle is generally the most convenient option.

The diverse habitats support a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for otter prints along the banks of the River Faughan in Learmount Forest. The woodlands are home to many bird species, and the wider Sperrin Mountains are known for their boggy uplands teeming with wildlife.

Yes, some trails incorporate local history. The walk through Learmount Forest, for example, takes you past the historic Learmount Castle, which was built around 1830. This adds a point of historical interest to the scenic woodland and riverside walk.

For a day hike, you should wear sturdy, waterproof footwear as some paths can be muddy, especially after rain. It's also wise to bring waterproof clothing, even if the forecast is good, as the weather can change quickly. Pack enough water, some snacks, and have your route downloaded on the komoot app for offline navigation.