County Londonderry, spanning from the dramatic northern cliffs to the rolling, heather-clad Sperrin Mountains, is a captivating blend of spectacular landscapes and profound historical significance. At its heart lies the famous Walled City, affectionately known as the “Maiden City,” which boasts the only fully intact mediaeval city walls in Europe. Its storied past echoes through ancient monastic roots, the legendary Siege of 1689, and its deeply compelling modern journey, making it a powerful and fascinating destination for history lovers.
Today, the city of Derry/Londonderry stands as a remarkably vibrant cultural hub, famously celebrated as a UK City of Culture. The iconic, S-shaped Peace Bridge elegantly arcs across the River Foyle, symbolising reconciliation and beautifully connecting the city’s revitalised waterfronts. Visitors can delve into the area’s rich narrative at the Tower Museum, marvel at the stunning stained glass of the Guildhall, or wander through the powerful Bogside Murals. The energy of the city is infectious, perfectly complemented by a thriving, modern culinary scene that effortlessly marries traditional Irish flavours with innovative, Michelin-starred dining experiences.
Beyond the city walls, the county’s natural beauty unfolds in breathtaking fashion. The world-famous Causeway Coastal Route winds through the region, revealing sweeping, dramatic sea views and architectural wonders like the magnificent Mussenden Temple, perched precariously on a cliff edge. Inland, the Sperrin Mountains offer a peaceful, wild retreat with a network of scenic walking trails, while the gentle waters of the River Roe provide an idyllic setting for kayaking and paddle-boarding. Whether tracing the steps of ancient history or exploring untamed landscapes, County Londonderry delivers a deeply enriching and unforgettable Irish adventure.
Coleraine, londonderry
Remarkably, Anderson Park retains its original Edwardian rose beds and ornamental fountain, a rare intact example of early‑20th‑century municipal design in Northern Ireland. The free‑entry green space now also offers a putting green and tennis courts, providing a tranquil yet active retreat in the heart of Coleraine.
Ballyscullion, londonderry
Mellow light glints off the tranquil waters of Lough Beg as the Georgian house of Ballyscullion Park comes into view, framed by its historic walled garden. The estate’s woodlands inspired Seamus Heaney’s poetry and once served as a World War II training base, adding layers of literary and military heritage.
269 Glenshane Rd, londonderry
Rural isolation meets urban‑explorer fascination at Brackfield Bawn, where 17th‑century stone walls crumble amidst heather yet draw a 4.8‑rated crowd of photographers and ghost‑tour fans. Erected by Sir Edward Doddington in 1611 for the Skinners Company, the bawn once sheltered settlers on the frontier of Ulster.
County Londonderry, londonderry
At just two miles, the Broharris Canal holds the distinction of being Ireland’s most compact 19th‑century waterway, still tracing the Lough Foyle Trail today. Its brief heyday saw kelp and shellfish shipped inland, and a series of bird hides now line the route.
Northern Ireland, antrim
From the thunderous basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway to the tranquil waterfalls of Glenariff, the Causeway Coast and Glens blends wild sea‑scapes with ancient glens and lively towns. History, geology and outdoor adventure sit side‑by‑side along a 120‑mile coastal road that showcases the very best of Northern Ireland’s north‑Antrim coastline.
County Londonderry, londonderry
Saint Patrick’s legendary gift of a fern‑covered plot gave the town its Irish name, Cúil Rathain, centuries before its market charter. From the Mesolithic Mountsandel Fort to the bustling Diamond and a modern university campus, the town bridges prehistoric roots with contemporary culture.
Ireland (multiple counties), galway
Remembering the English‑speaking settler community that christened the scattered townlands, Englishtown marks a quiet enclave where Anglo‑named parcels sit amid Gaelic fields. Each of the seven Englishtowns—from Antrim’s farms to Wicklow’s mountain fringe—offers a chance to wander stone walls, soak up centuries‑old landscape patterns and glimpse the subtle imprint of historic plantation.
County Londonderry, londonderry
From the Eagle’s Pool on Sawel’s slopes the River Faughan rushes through a steep, wooded valley before meeting Lough Foyle. Along its banks the 170‑hectare Faughan Valley Woodlands offer 35 km of sculpture‑lined trails, ancient oak groves and vibrant wildlife, making the area a haven for anglers, walkers and history lovers alike.
Aghanloo, londonderry
Beneath the estuary’s mud‑flats lie dense mussel beds that form a hidden underwater forest, supporting a surprising diversity of marine life. These rich feeding grounds attract thousands of waders each winter, from curlews to bar‑tailed godwits, making the reserve a premier spot for birdwatchers and marine enthusiasts alike.
Northern Ireland, tyrone
The Sperrin Mountains stretch 64 km of heather‑clad moorland, glacial valleys and dark‑sky horizons across Tyrone and Londonderry. From Bronze‑Age stone circles to the summit of Sawel, the range offers wild beauty, rich wildlife and a touch of legend for every traveller.
Northern Ireland, antrim
Wilfrid Merydith Capper imagined a 1946 footpath that would stitch together all six counties of Northern Ireland, a vision that became the Ulster Way. Today the 625‑mile network loops from coastal cliffs to mountain passes, inviting walkers to trace the route first completed in its revised form by schoolboys Matthew Hoper and Simon Harris in 2010.
