County Londonderry Travel Guide

Northern Ireland
Ireland which includes outdoor art
County Londonderry, also known as CountyDerry, is one of the six counties of Northern Ireland, locatedin the north-west of the country. It borders the northern shores of LoughNeagh and is home to a number of key Northern Ireland touristdestinations.

Within County Londonderry,you can find top coastal destinations, charming urban environments, stunningscenery and exceptional wildlife. In short, it’s got the lot.

What to See in County Londonderry?

The county is home to some of the UK’s most iconictourist destinations, chief among them the majestic Causeway Coast and Glensregion, including the Giant’s Causeway. It is a designated Area of OutstandingNatural Beauty and is widely considered one of Europe’s most scenic drivinglocations.

Wind your way along the beautiful coastline,passing a patchwork of scenery and colours, through some picturesque villagesand past rugged islands. Stop off and look at the unique geological rockformations at the Giant’s Causeway and continue on towards the city of Londonderry(Derry). Or you could even catch the train along the coast on the historicColeraine to Londonderry line.

Mountain Activities in County Londonderry

Towering above the landscape is the Sperrin Mountainrange, which covers a large part of the county. Explore the scenic drivingroutes or walk through one of the many forest and country parks, includingBanagher Glen and Roe Valley.

The sparse, heather-covered highlands of theSperrins contrast with the lush valleys, creating some of the most diverse andbeautiful walking terrain in the UK. It also makes for excellent cycling, withthe road network usually quiet enough to make touring a real pleasure. With arich history and heritage, combined with incredible natural beauty, this mountainlandscape is a big draw for CountyLondonderry.

Hitting the City in County Londonderry

Few other urban environments in Northern Irelandoffer the same kind of charming and exciting city escape. Londonderry (Derry)is an old but very contemporary city, and was UK City of Culture in 2013. It’sa city that was well prepared for such an honour, having been home to writerssuch as Seamus Heaney and Brian Fiel, as well as musicians such as Phil Coulterand The Undertones.

Check out the unique independent shops and craftvillage along Shipquay Street, or take in a performance at one of the city’smany venues, including the MillenniumForum, Playhouse Theatre or WatersideTheatre. This is a city that’s buzzing with life.

Enjoy County Londonderry

With a range of environments, activities andattractions, County Londonderry offers a lot tovisitors. From exploring the ancient coastline to soaking up culture in thecounty’s capital, you’ll never be short of something to do and enjoy. Visit atany time of year to explore the ever-changing scenery and make the most ofmountain activities.

County Londonderry isan exciting and diverse Northern Ireland destination with broad historic,natural and cultural appeal.

Popular cities in County Londonderry

Londonderry
Londonderry
Known for Friendly people, Walking and Historical
Explore Londonderry: its history, museums, bars and more!

Reasons to visit

  • Derry City Walls
  • Millennium Forum
  • Museum of Free Derry and Bloody Sunday Memorial
Portrush Beach showing a bay or harbour, general coastal views and a coastal town
Portrush
Known for Friendly people, Sea and Beaches
Portrush is Northern Ireland’s quintessential seaside town: a fun and lively resort with sandy beaches, a vibrant nightlife and plenty of daytime amusements. Portrush stretches out across a mile-long peninsula that juts into the North Atlantic and presents a panorama of the Causeway Coast, from the Giant’s Causeway in the east to Lough Foyle and the headlands of Donegal in the west. With its range of restaurants, nightclubs, hotels and eye-catching scenery, Portrush is a great place for a family holiday.

Reasons to visit

  • Portrush East Strand Beach
  • Portrush West Strand Beach
Mussenden Temple which includes general coastal views
Coleraine
Known for Friendly people, Rivers and Countryside
Home to the University of Ulster, and close to the popular seaside resorts of Portrush and Castlerock, Coleraine makes the perfect family getaway.

Reasons to visit

  • Mussenden Temple
Limavady
Limavady
Known for Dining, Friendly people and Spas
Limavady is a pretty market town in County Londonderry overlooked by stunning cliffs and part of Northern Ireland's famous Causeway Coastal Route. Situated in the Roe Valley just three miles from Lough Foyle, Limavady is the perfect place from which to discover the country's best scenery.
Northern Ireland showing heritage architecture
Magherafelt
Known for Dining, Friendly people and Family-friendly
Located in the centre of Northern Ireland, the old market town of Magherafelt sits in County Londonderry between the northwestern shores of Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the British Isles, and the Sperrin Mountains.
Portstewart
Portstewart
Known for Sea, Golf and Entertainment
Get away to Portstewart! Enjoy the golf, entertainment and beaches.