Exploring the picturesque landscapes surrounding Derry and Strabane offers a plethora of opportunities for dog lovers and their four-legged companions. The region is not only steeped in rich history but also brimming with scenic walks that cater to every dog’s exuberance and every owner’s desire for adventure. Here, we delve into ten remarkable dog walking locations that promise both enjoyment and exercise, providing essential details for an optimal outing.
1. River Foyle – Strand Road
Address: Strand Road, Derry/Londonderry, BT47 6DP
Contact: +44 28 7137 6571
Website: www.derrystrabane.com
The River Foyle offers an enchanting walk along its banks, where the gentle gurgling of water serves as the perfect backdrop for a leisurely stroll. The pathway is well-maintained, spacious, and welcoming for dogs of all sizes. The aesthetic beauty of the Foyle Bridge, especially at sunset, creates a picture-perfect moment for dog owners to cherish.
2. Prehen Woodland
Address: Prehen Road, Derry/Londonderry, BT47 2RN
Contact: +44 28 7137 6571
Website: www.derrystrabane.com
Nestled just outside the city, Prehen Woodland boasts a stunning array of trees and wildlife. The trails here wind through ancient woodlands, making it a magical playground for dogs. Owners may notice the playful antics of squirrels while their pets engage in the natural instinct of chasing. An ethereal silence punctuates this area, fostering a tranquil atmosphere for both dogs and their human companions.
3. Altnagelvin Park
Address: Altnagelvin Avenue, Derry/Londonderry, BT47 6TQ
Contact: +44 28 7131 1446
Website: www.derrystrabane.com
This urban park is ideal for quick walks or extensive exercise sessions. Altnagelvin Park is equipped with a dedicated dog area, allowing your canine friend to frolic freely. The park’s diverse flora, coupled with wide-open spaces, makes it an enchanting locale, inviting shared moments between parents and pets alike.
4. Lough Foyle Coastal Walk
Address: Downhill Strand, Castlerock, BT51 4RJ
Contact: +44 28 7034 1777
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk
The Lough Foyle Coastal Walk is nothing short of breathtaking. Stretching along scenic coastlines, this trail offers grand vistas of the lough and distant hills. Dogs can revel in the soft sand and refreshing winds, while owners can bask in the beauty of nature. There’s an invigorating sense of freedom here that is palpable, resonating with both canines and their companions.
5. Banagher Forest
Address: Banagher, Derry, BT47 3ZL
Contact: +44 28 7034 5249
Website: www.forestryireland.ie
Banagher Forest invites adventure seekers to explore its many trails. The carefully curated routes meander through lush greenery and serene surroundings, perfect for dogs to run untethered. The allure of the forest lies in its abundance of paths, each presenting new sights and scents for dogs to discover, ensuring that no two walks are ever the same.
6. St Columb’s Park
Address: St Columb’s Park, Derry/Londonderry, BT47 6BQ
Contact: +44 28 7131 4480
Website: www.derrystrabane.com
St Columb’s Park is an idyllic expanse that combines areas of thrilling activity with quiet corners perfect for reflection. With paths winding through the park, dogs enjoy a varied environment, from open fields to shaded wooded areas. The historic echoes of the park’s past lend an air of intrigue, making it a favourite amongst local walkers.
7. Gortin Glen Forest Park
Address: Gortin, Omagh, BT79 7RU
Contact: +44 28 8224 0213
Website: www.fermanaghomagh.com
For those willing to venture slightly further, Gortin Glen Forest Park is a hidden gem boasting a plethora of nature trails woven through spectacular landscapes. This setting allows for a richer experience as dogs can engage with the wild at every turn. The tranquillity of the park is marvellous, punctuated only by the rustle of leaves and the occasional bark of joyful dogs.
8. Crawfordsburn Country Park
Address: Crawfordsburn, BT19 1JZ
Contact: +44 28 9127 0230
Website: www.nationaltrust.org.uk/crawfordsburn
With rugged cliffs and sandy beaches, Crawfordsburn Country Park offers a mix of coastal and forest tracks that beg to be explored. The refreshingly salty air invigorates both owners and dogs, providing a fulfilling outing that is both stimulating and restorative. The varied terrains create opportunities for dogs to explore to their heart’s content.
9. Creggan Country Park
Address: Creggan, Derry/Londonderry, BT47 3PY
Contact: +44 28 7131 4132
Website: www.creggancountrypark.com
This community park offers stunning waterside walks alongside splendid wildlife. It’s a safe environment for dogs that tend to be more sociable, and the various trails offer engaging exploration opportunities. The placid water setting adds to the serenity of the walk, allowing for a peaceful retreat from bustling city life.
10. Tullybgle Park
Address: Tullybgle Road, Strabane, BT82 8ES
Contact: +44 28 7138 2050
Website: www.strabanedc.com
Last but not least, Tullybgle Park provides picturesque settings for leisurely strolls. The park’s gentle slopes and well-tended paths are conducive to casual exploration. Children’s playgrounds sprinkled throughout offer added fun, making it an ideal spot for family outings where dogs can play and children can frolic simultaneously, creating cherished memories.
In conclusion, the Derry and Strabane regions are a veritable treasure trove of walking locations that invite exploration and interactions between humans and their cherished pets. These ten routes showcase nature’s splendour while ensuring that dogs can indulge in their instinctive behaviours. Whether you prefer verdant woodlands, coastal paths, or vibrant parks, you and your dog are bound to discover areas that invigorate the senses and nurture the soul.
