Ness Country Park

Overview

Ness Country Park, nestled in the Burntollet Valley near Killaloo, is a 55‑acre sanctuary of water, wood and wildlife. The park’s headline attraction is the 30‑foot Ness Waterfall, one of the highest cascades in Northern Ireland, set against dramatic gorges and rapids. Over 4.5 miles of off‑road, way‑marked trails wind through two nature reserves – Ness Wood and Ervey Wood – offering everything from gentle meadow loops to challenging river‑side climbs. Whether you are chasing spring bluebells, summer butterflies, autumn colour or winter berries, the park delivers a year‑round natural spectacle.

History & Landscape

The name “Ness” derives from the Irish an las, meaning “waterfall”. After the last Ice Age, glacial deposits blocked the ancient Burntollet River, forcing the water to carve a new channel through the rock. The resulting erosion created the spectacular waterfall, deep gorges, portholes and rapid sections that define the park today. The surrounding woodlands have developed over millennia, supporting a rich tapestry of flora and fauna that reflects the valley’s geological history.

What to See & Do

The Waterfall Trail (3 km / 1.9 mi)

This is the park’s flagship route. Starting from the visitor centre, the path follows the Burntollet River, crossing Hone’s Bridge and climbing a series of steep inclines, steps and footbridges. Highlights include Shane’s Bridge, The Gorge Crossing and Stevenson’s Bridge, each offering dramatic viewpoints of the cascading water. The route finishes back at the visitor centre after a rewarding descent through open parkland.

Meadow Route (0.75 km / 0.46 mi)

Ideal for families and wheelchair users, this flat, asphalt‑surfaced loop skirts wildlife ponds, wildflower meadows and a children’s adventure playground. The gentle terrain makes it perfect for a quick stroll or a stroller‑friendly outing.

Meadow Plus Route (1.5 km / 0.93 mi)

An extended version of the Meadow Route, this trail adds a short gravel section and a linear stretch that leads toward Ness Wood. It remains largely flat and combines asphalt, concrete and compacted gravel, providing a varied surface without demanding fitness.

Ervey Wood Trail (3 km / 1.9 mi)

For the more adventurous, the Ervey Wood route offers a rugged, linear trek through loose and compacted gravel, with steep ascents that reward hikers with panoramic views of the valley. The trail ends at Ervey Car Park, where walkers can link onto the broader Faughan Valley Woodland Trails.

Wildlife Watching

The park is a haven for red squirrels, badgers, otters and a host of bird species. In spring, bluebells and wood sorrel carpet the forest floor; summer brings purple hairstreak butterflies fluttering above the oak canopy; autumn paints the woods in gold and amber; winter adds flashes of rowan berries and holly. Early mornings are especially good for hearing warblers fill the glades with song.

Facilities & Activities

Beyond the trails, Ness Country Park provides picnic areas, a children’s playpark, wildlife ponds and wildflower meadows. An electric vehicle charging point is available for eco‑conscious visitors. The visitor centre houses toilets (including disabled and baby‑changing facilities) and information panels that guide you to each trailhead.

Practical Information

The visitor centre on Oughtagh Road serves as the starting point for all routes; information panels at each car park mark the trailheads. For those arriving by car, the park lies 4.5 km north‑west of Claudy and 13 km south‑east of Derry, signposted from the A6 via Oughtagh Road. From Belfast, follow the A6 north‑west for about 18 km, then follow brown signs for “Ness Country Park” for a further 2.8 km. From Derry, follow the A6 north‑west for about 18 km, then follow brown signs for “Ness Country Park” for a further 2.8 km. From Derry/Londonderry, travel south‑east on the A6 for 7.3 km and follow the same brown signage.

Public transport does not serve the park directly. The nearest train station is the North West Transport Hub in Derry’s Waterside, and the main bus station is also in Derry. For cyclists, the Derry City & Strabane District Council greenway network offers routes that connect to the park via local roads.

Because the park is free and open all year, it is an excellent option for spontaneous day trips, school outings, or extended nature walks. Whether you are chasing the roar of the waterfall, the flutter of a butterfly, or simply a quiet spot for a family picnic, Ness Country Park delivers a memorable slice of County Londonderry’s natural heritage.