North West Network Greenway – Derry to Three Trees

The Greenway commences along the banks of the Foyle in the Derry City Centre where there is ample parking for vistitors. The traffic free route then follows the Foyle downstream along the quays through Bay Road Park nature reserve.   Leaving Bay road park the greenway  travels uphill under the majestic Foyle bridge and passing Boom Hall on the way to  Inishowen and County Donegal. Please note the last section in the park involves a steep gradient.

The greenway continues along the A2 (there is a traffic crossing near the park exit),  using a shared footpath and cycleway separated from the road by a raised kerb and grass verge. After approximately 2 kilometers, you will turn right onto Culmore Point Road (there is a traffic crossing) – there is a shared footpath and cycleway separated by a raised kerb on this low trafficked road, be mindful of the steep descent. Cycling adjacent to the shoreline, you can look across to the commercial port on the other side of the river. A short detour (C.600m) leads to the recently renovated Culmore fort and the lighthouse. Alternatively continue straight ahead along the Corey Road – again there is a shared footpath and cycleway separated from the road by a raised kerb. After a short distance, you will pass the entrance to Culmore country park – a 40 hectare park with 3km of pathways and plenty of seats to take a break and enjoy the lovely waterside views.

Beyond Culmore Country Park, the route follows a quiet road for 1km to the border at Muff. Once in Muff, you have the opportunity to visit the vibrant village centre using the signed active travel network or  travel along leafy lanes to the east of the village emerging near the Muff community park.  Muff serves as a natural midpoint with a rest area that where you can avail of before continuing your journey. Muff is home to the Muff Liquor company with the visitors centre offers a unique tour and tasting experience. 

From the community park, the greenway extends northwards in the direction of Quigleys point to the coast townland of Three trees gradually bringing you closer to the coastline. The route holds an elevated position with views over the Foyle estuary and passes the mural of the warrior Eoghan mac Néill after whom the Inishowen peninsula is named. The route runs adjacent to the R238 with a steel barrier providing separation from passing vehicles along most of its length. 

The route terminates at three trees where there is a sand and shingle beach and greenway users are treated to extensive views over the Foyle estuary where they can sit and relax watching the passing ships cruise into Foyle port, the local oyster fishermen tend their beds or the flocks of coastal birds that frequent the bay.

Towards Quigley’s Point 

You can opt to continue your journey by cycling 2km into the village of Quigley’s Point – there is a hard shoulder but no formal separation from the road traffic for pedestrians and cyclists.

Towards Derry City Centre 

Sections of National Routes 92 and 93 of the National Cycle Network runs in sections around Derry. Further details can be viewed at https://www.walkwheelcycletrust.org.uk/find-a-route-on-the-national-cycle-network/omagh-strabane-derry-route-92-and-derry-city-route-93/

From Lifford, the route continues on a path off the Ballougry Road near Carrigans in County Donegal with the final section of Route 92 meandering alongside the River Foyle onto Derry Quay. From here, you can continue along the North West Greenway Network which crosses back over the border into the Republic of Ireland at Muff, Co. Donegal. Alternatively, you can cross the River Foyle, at Craigavon Bridge, the Peace Bridge or Foyle Bridge, and follow a section of National Cycle Network Route 93 which runs alongside the river, from the village of Newbuildings, joining the Waterside Greenway and continuing onto the Strathfoyle Greenway.

Derry has an abundance of active travel and greenway routes located within the city. You can cross the River Foyle, at Craigavon Bridge, the Peace Bridge or Foyle Bridge, and avail of several traffic free routes including the Waterside Greenway and the Strathfoyle Greenway on the east side of the river and the Foyle Valley Greenway on the west side of the river if travelling towards Carrigans in County Donegal. Each of these leafy trails provide a peaceful and scenic riverside route along the River Foyle, offering panoramic views of the water and the city skyline.