Overview
The Foyle Greenway was Ireland’s first official cross-border greenway: it starts under the walls of Derry, crosses into the Republic through County Donegal and back, and runs 34 km (21 mi) along the old Great Northern Railway line beside the River Foyle to the market towns of Lifford and Strabane in County Tyrone. One thing to know before you set out: it’s a blend of purpose-built, traffic-free riverside path and quiet country lanes, and only about a quarter of the route is fully separated from traffic. That suits road bikes, hybrids, e-bikes and walkers, but it isn’t all car-free.
History & Development
The greenway breathes new life into a railway corridor that once carried passengers and freight between Derry and Enniskillen. After the line fell into disuse, local authorities and cycling advocates campaigned for a safer, sustainable alternative. In December 2016, a partnership between Derry City & Strabane District Council, Transport NI, Donegal County Council and the charity Sustrans secured a €14.8 million EU INTERREG VA grant, matched by both the Northern Ireland and Irish governments. Construction delivered a high-quality, fully asphalted trail that opened to the public in 2019. Today, it forms the backbone of the wider North West Greenway Network, a 126 km regional initiative designed to encourage active travel, boost tourism and strengthen cross-border community ties.
The Route: What to Expect
The journey begins just beneath Derry’s historic city walls, near the Peace Bridge and the city’s transport hub. Cyclists and walkers head south on a smooth, traffic-free stretch that hugs the western bank of the River Foyle. This initial 5 km section is completely separated from road traffic, offering uninterrupted views of the water and the distant hills of Donegal. If you only ride part of the route, make it this stretch: flat, fully traffic-free, and the only section suitable for wheelchairs and buggies.
As the path approaches the County Donegal border, it transitions onto quiet country lanes. The route winds through the small villages of Carrigans and Saint Johnston, where the landscape opens up into traditional farmland and gently rolling hills. A short climb near Carrigans gives way to a rewarding descent toward the lush Ballindrait valley. Here, the trail crosses the Deele River before heading east toward Lifford.
Crossing the River Foyle at Lifford marks the transition into County Tyrone. The final stretch into Strabane follows calm rural roads, finishing in the town centre near the Tourist Information Centre. The entire route is 100% asphalt, with approximately 26.5% designated as completely traffic-free. It’s largely flat, though a few gentle inclines appear on the minor road sections, easily managed with a lower gear or e-bike assistance.
Art & Culture Along the Way
The Foyle Greenway is as much a cultural corridor as it is a transport route. The trail features a curated collection of public artworks, many created in partnership with local schools and community groups to reflect the shared heritage of the border region.
Standout Installations
- Let the Dance Begin (Strabane): Standing 5.5 metres tall at the southern terminus, these twin stainless-steel and bronze figures symbolise the merging of North and South Irish cultures through music and movement.
- Noah Rose’s Viewing Structures: Positioned on opposite banks of the river, these two cantilevered platforms were crafted from a disused railway footbridge. They invite visitors to experience the waterway from both sides. At night, a laser-light projection creates a “virtual bridge” across the gap, reinforcing the theme of connection.
- Community Artworks: Scattered along the route are pieces by Marcella Ferguson, Colin Dark, Denzil Brown, Martha Lucas, Sarah Greavu and Brian McGhee. Many were developed with cross-community primary schools to explore the river’s ecology and local history.
Historic Stops
- Foyle Valley Railway Museum: Located near the Derry start point, this museum preserves the legacy of the region’s narrow-gauge railways. Run by the charity Destined, it houses vintage locomotives, carriages and rolling stock from the former County Donegal Railways Joint Committee.
- Cavanacor Historic House: Situated just off the route near the N14 crossing, this 18th-century estate is the ancestral home of US President James K. Polk. Now operating as a gallery and craft centre, it’s a popular spot to stretch your legs and browse local art.
Practical Information
The greenway is free to access and open year-round. It’s dog-friendly, and several points along the route offer parking, seating and basic amenities, particularly near the Derry and Strabane termini.
- Accessibility: The 5 km traffic-free riverside section is level and suitable for wheelchairs, pushchairs and adaptive cycles. The minor road sections are fully paved but may feature slight gradients and occasional agricultural traffic; they remain passable for most users with reasonable fitness.
- Safety & Navigation: The route is well-signposted and follows National Cycle Network markers. Detailed maps are available via OS Maps, and a downloadable GPX file can be found on the GPS-Routes website for smartphone or cycling computer use. Cyclists should wear helmets, use lights in low visibility, and stay aware of farm vehicles on the country lane sections.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring and autumn offer mild temperatures and fewer crowds, while summer brings longer daylight hours for full-day rides. The trail is well-drained and usable in all weather, though a waterproof jacket is recommended for the Atlantic-influenced climate.
Getting There & Extending Your Trip
The northern start point at Craigavon Bridge is easily reached by car, with free on-street parking available on the north side of the bridge. Public transport users can walk to the trailhead from Derry-Londonderry railway station or nearby bus stops. In Strabane, the town centre car park on Main Street provides convenient drop-off and pick-up points.
The greenway integrates directly with other regional trails. Cyclists can connect to the newly opened Strathfoyle Greenway for a riverside loop back into Derry, or link up with the expanding North West Greenway Network as new cross-border sections come online. For those combining cycling with coastal exploration in the wider region, the Ballymacran Coastal Walk – Lough Foyle (located approximately 25 km northeast) offers a 7 km trail along the water’s edge, perfect for spotting seabirds and enjoying quieter scenery.
Download a GPX file before you set off, pack a light rain layer, and allow plenty of time to stop at the riverside viewpoints and community art installations.