Wild Ireland: A Walk Through Ireland's Ancient Past
Discover Ireland's lost wildlife in a Celtic rainforest sanctuary, supporting animal rescue and conservation on the Wild Atlantic Way.
Wild Ireland, located near Burnfoot in County Donegal, is a unique wildlife sanctuary set in an ancient Celtic rainforest. It provides a home for rescued animals, many of which are species that have become extinct in Ireland, such as bears, wolves, and lynx. Visitors can explore the woodland and learn about the history and conservation of Ireland's wildlife.
A brief summary to Wild Ireland
- Wild Ireland, Burnfoot, Dundrean, Co. Donegal, F93 KN7X, IE
- +353749719890
- Visit website
- Monday 10 am-5 pm
- Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
- Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
- Thursday 10 am-5 pm
- Friday 10 am-5 pm
- Saturday 10 am-5 pm
- Sunday 10 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Visit during the weekdays to avoid large crowds and enjoy a more serene experience.
- Check the park's schedule for special events or educational talks to enhance your visit.
- Wear comfortable shoes for walking, as the park covers a large area with trails.
- Bring a picnic to enjoy in the designated areas for a perfect family day out.
- Don't forget your camera to capture the stunning landscapes and wildlife encounters.
Getting There
-
Car
From Letterkenny, take the N13 road towards Derry. After about 24 kilometers, take the exit onto the N14 towards Derry (A2). Continue for approximately 10 kilometers until you reach the R238. Turn left onto the R238 and follow the signs for Burnfoot. After about 7 kilometers, you will see signs for Wild Ireland on your right. Parking is available on-site.
-
Public Transport
To reach Wild Ireland by public transport, take a bus from Letterkenny to Derry; bus services such as the 64 or 64A operate between these locations. Once in Derry, transfer to a bus heading towards Burnfoot (the 142 bus typically serves this route). After about 20 minutes on the bus from Derry, get off at the stop closest to Wild Ireland. Walk approximately 10 minutes to reach the park. Check bus schedules in advance as they may vary. A new connecting bus service to the Wild Ireland wildlife sanctuary near Burnfoot is being piloted for the summer. Launched on Tuesday, and running through July and August, the service will operate from Buncrana and Muff to Wild Ireland twice a week. The pilot service will operate on Tuesdays and Fridays with a fare of €2 return for all passengers and under fives travelling free.
-
Taxi
Hire a taxi from any town in County Donegal to Wild Ireland. From Derry, the taxi ride will take about 15-20 minutes and cost around €20-€30, depending on traffic and time of day. Book your taxi in advance, especially during peak tourist seasons.
Discover more about Wild Ireland
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Magazine Gate Derry City Walls
6.1 km
Explore Magazine Gate, the newest historic entrance to Derry’s iconic walled city, offering riverfront access and rich 19th-century heritage.
Bogside History Tours
6.2 km
Discover Londonderry's captivating history with Bogside History Tours, where every street tells a story and every mural speaks volumes.
The Clock Tower
6.2 km
Historic Clock Tower at Ebrington Square, a timeless symbol of Londonderry’s military heritage and vibrant city life.
BRICKWORK BAR
6.2 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Brickwork Bar in Londonderry, where local culture and friendly faces create an unforgettable atmosphere.
War Memorial
6.4 km
A solemn tribute to the fallen, standing at the heart of Derry's historic walled city since 1927.
Ferryquay Gate Derry City Walls
6.5 km
Step through the gate that started the Siege of Derry and walk the ramparts of one of Europe’s finest walled cities.
Haslett Monumental Sculptors
6.5 km
Explore the artistry and heritage of memorial craftsmanship at Haslett Monumental Sculptors in Londonderry, where memories are beautifully carved in stone.
Double Bastion
6.5 km
Historic fortress bastion on Derry’s city walls, home to the legendary Roaring Meg cannon and panoramic views over the Bogside.
City Walking Tours
6.5 km
Discover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Londonderry with engaging guided walking tours exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Lapwing Way Gospel Hall
6.6 km
A welcoming evangelical chapel offering spiritual reflection and community fellowship in Londonderry.
Cornerstone City Church
6.9 km
A vibrant community in Londonderry offering worship, outreach, and hope through faith and compassionate service.
Craigavon Bridge
6.9 km
Explore Derry’s iconic double-decker Craigavon Bridge, a historic engineering marvel spanning the River Foyle with panoramic city views.
St Columb's Church
7.0 km
Explore the serene beauty and rich history of St Columb's Church in Londonderry, a must-visit for tourists seeking cultural and spiritual experiences.
Derry Girls Hangout
7.0 km
Explore the iconic Derry Girls Hangout in Londonderry, a vibrant tribute to the beloved TV series capturing the essence of 1990s Northern Ireland.
Things To Do
8.8 km
Explore the vibrant history and stunning landscapes of Londonderry with unforgettable tours that bring the city's rich culture to life.
Unmissable attractions to see
Ballyarnett Country Park
2.7 km
Discover tranquil lakes, rich wildlife, and family-friendly trails at Ballyarnett Country Park, a peaceful natural escape near Londonderry.
Notorious Street Food
3.0 km
Bold flavors and generous portions define Notorious Street Food, Londonderry’s beloved takeaway hotspot for tacos, loaded fries, and smash burgers.
Shantallow House
3.4 km
A beloved pub in Londonderry offering warm hospitality, quality food, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
Brook Hall Estate and Gardens
4.0 km
Experience the natural beauty and historical allure of Brook Hall Estate and Gardens in Londonderry, a must-visit for every traveler.
Bay Road Park Local Nature Reserve
4.6 km
A serene 20-hectare riverside nature reserve in Londonderry, transformed from landfill into a vibrant habitat rich with wildlife and peaceful trails.
Quay Trail lookout
4.7 km
Discover panoramic river views and urban charm at Londonderry’s scenic Quay Trail Lookout along the peaceful River Foyle waterfront.
Quay docks
4.8 km
Historic Quay Docks in Londonderry offer scenic river views, rich maritime heritage, and vibrant waterfront culture in Northern Ireland’s iconic port city.
The Quay Trail
4.8 km
A tranquil, scenic riverside trail weaving through Londonderry’s historic heart with stunning river and city skyline views.
Brooke Park Derry
5.6 km
Historic Victorian park in Derry offering lush gardens, panoramic city views, and a vibrant community space for all ages.
St Columb's Park
5.8 km
A historic 70-acre park blending natural beauty, heritage, and modern recreation on the banks of the River Foyle in Londonderry.
St Eugene's Cathedral
5.8 km
Discover the neo-Gothic majesty and vibrant spiritual heart of Derry at St Eugene's Cathedral, a 19th-century architectural gem and community cornerstone.
Crescent Bar
5.8 km
A cozy, community-focused pub in Londonderry’s Creggan area, offering hearty fare, local drinks, and live music in a warm atmosphere.
Quayside Shopping Centre
5.8 km
A vibrant shopping and leisure hub in Londonderry with diverse stores, cinema, and convenient amenities by the River Foyle.
Creggan Country Park
5.9 km
Explore 100 acres of lakes, woodlands, and adventure activities at Derry’s vibrant community-run Creggan Country Park.
Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin
5.9 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Irish language, music, and culture at Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin in the historic city of Derry.
Essential places to dine
Daly's Bar & Bistro
3.4 km
A welcoming bistro on Racecourse Road blending fresh, diverse dishes with a casual, friendly atmosphere in the heart of Londonderry.
Pitchers Restaurant & Events Pavilion
3.4 km
A versatile dining and event venue in Londonderry, known for vibrant flavors, excellent service, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Link 48 Bar & Restaurant
3.4 km
A lively and welcoming American-style bar and restaurant in Londonderry, famed for generous portions and friendly service.
Scarpello & Co Bakehouse & Pizzeria
4.0 km
Artisan sourdough, wood-fired pizzas, and homemade pastries in a warm, community-focused bakehouse on Buncrana Road.
The Delacroix
4.0 km
A cozy and affordable pub-restaurant on Buncrana Road offering hearty meals and friendly vibes in the heart of Londonderry.
The Magnet Bar
4.2 km
Discover The Magnet Bar in Londonderry: A vibrant grill serving delicious meals at affordable prices in a friendly atmosphere.
Caterina’s Bistro, Da Vinci's Hotel
4.5 km
Modern Italian-inspired dining with a farm-to-table focus in the heart of Londonderry at Da Vinci's Hotel.
Pyke 'N' Pommes (POD)
5.1 km
Riverside street food delight in Londonderry, serving bold burgers and tacos from a unique shipping container kitchen and double-decker bus.
The Treehouse Restaurant
5.2 km
Discover the rich flavors of Ireland at The Treehouse Restaurant in Muff, where local ingredients meet creative cuisine in a cozy atmosphere.
Timber Quay Restaurant Derry
5.3 km
Modern European dining by the River Foyle with fresh flavors, friendly service, and a stylish, relaxed atmosphere in Londonderry.
Quaywest Wine Bar & Restaurant
5.6 km
A vibrant riverside wine bar and steakhouse in Derry offering modern fusion cuisine, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
The Old Docks Bar & Grill
5.6 km
A welcoming waterfront restaurant and bar in Londonderry offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a relaxed atmosphere on Queens Quay.
Mama Masala
5.6 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Indian and Italian flavors at Mama Masala, a lively and welcoming restaurant in Londonderry’s Queens Quay.
Guapo Fresh Mexican
5.7 km
Fresh, flavorful Mexican cuisine with customizable heat levels served in a casual riverside setting in Londonderry.
Mandarin Palace
5.8 km
A vibrant fusion of Chinese and Asian flavors with stylish decor and a lively cocktail bar on Londonderry’s Queens Quay.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
One Luxury Boutique
2.8 km
Explore One Luxury Boutique in Co. Donegal for exquisite women's fashion, accessories, and jewelry that embody elegance and style.
Bits N Pieces(Delivery’s)
3.0 km
Explore Bits N Pieces, Londonderry's charming gift shop, offering unique souvenirs and local crafts to commemorate your visit.
The Range, Derry
3.2 km
A versatile homewares and lifestyle store in Derry offering furniture, garden supplies, pet care, and more with convenient hours and moderate prices.
izudoo Derry Shopping Guide - Clothes Shops
5.4 km
Londonderry's insider guide to contemporary fashion and local shopping culture.
Little Acorns Bookstore
5.9 km
Discover Derry’s largest independent bookstore, a vibrant cultural hub with 25,000+ books, Ireland’s only Typewriter Museum, and a welcoming community space.
The Irish Gift Centre
6.1 km
Authentic Irish crafts and Celtic treasures in the heart of Londonderry’s vibrant cultural scene.
The Holy Shop
6.2 km
A welcoming sanctuary in Londonderry offering a rich selection of religious goods and spiritual gifts for all faith milestones.
Moments Gift Shop
6.2 km
Explore Moments Gift Shop in Londonderry for unique gifts and local wedding essentials, blending culture with creativity in every purchase.
Storefront
6.2 km
Discover premium Irish-designed clothing and unique styles at Storefront, Londonderry’s independent fashion boutique on Waterloo Street.
Pippa
6.2 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Pippa, Londonderry's chic boutique, your go-to for stylish clothing and local fashion finds.
The Irish Shop
6.2 km
Discover authentic Irish crafts and heritage treasures in the heart of Derry’s charming Craft Village.
Harmony
6.2 km
Discover unique gifts and wellness treasures at Harmony, a charming boutique in the heart of Londonderry’s vibrant shopping district.
The Gift Box
6.2 km
Discover unique, thoughtful gifts in a charming shop with 30 years of history on Derry’s historic Shipquay Street.
The Sacred Tree
6.3 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and local craftsmanship at The Sacred Tree, nestled in Derry’s historic Craft Village.
Vine Living Home and Gift Shop
6.3 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares blending Irish tradition and modern style in the heart of Londonderry.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Phoenix Bar & Off License
5.2 km
A vibrant, welcoming pub in Londonderry offering lively music, affordable drinks, and authentic Irish hospitality from morning till late night.
The Park Bar
5.8 km
A historic family-run pub in Londonderry renowned for its warm hospitality, excellent Guinness, and vibrant Irish cultural nights.
The Derby Bar
5.8 km
A warm, inviting pub in Londonderry offering cozy snugs, excellent Guinness, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere daily until midnight.
Tinney's Bar & The Shirt Factory
5.9 km
Historic family-owned Irish pub in Londonderry famed for legendary Guinness, lively local atmosphere, and shirt factory heritage.
The Trinity Bar
5.9 km
A lively Londonderry bar blending traditional Irish charm with unique decor, great drinks, and hearty local fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
Jack's Bar
6.0 km
Experience authentic Northern Irish hospitality and hearty pub fare in the cozy and lively Jack's Bar at Londonderry's Little James Street.
Grand Central Bar
6.0 km
A lively and affordable local pub on Strand Road, Grand Central Bar offers a warm atmosphere and friendly service in the heart of Londonderry.
Nacional de Cuba
6.1 km
A vibrant and welcoming cocktail bar in Londonderry, famed for its lively karaoke nights, eclectic music, and expertly crafted drinks.
Dungloe Bar
6.2 km
Historic Irish pub since 1892, offering live music, hearty food, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of Londonderry’s Waterloo Street.
Lizzie O'Farrell's
6.2 km
Experience the lively spirit of Londonderry at Lizzie O'Farrell's, a warm pub blending traditional Irish charm with vibrant live music and local brews.
Silver Street Derry
6.2 km
Historic charm and lively modern lounge vibes converge at Silver Street Derry, part of the iconic River Inn since 1684.
Masons Bar
6.2 km
Experience authentic local charm and warm hospitality at Masons Bar, a cozy and affordable retreat in the heart of Londonderry.
The Thirsty Goat Derry
6.3 km
A lively bar and beer garden in Londonderry offering traditional Irish fare, craft beers, and live music seven nights a week.
Porter's Bar
6.3 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively heart of Londonderry at Porter's Bar.
Blackbird
6.3 km
Blackbird is a lively Londonderry pub offering fine brews, a welcoming atmosphere, and a growing kitchen menu from midday to late night.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
izudoo Derry Pub & Night Club Guide
5.4 km
Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at izudoo — a lively pub and nightclub with great music, drinks, and unforgettable nights out.
Ibiza Orchestra Live
6.1 km
Experience the electrifying fusion of live orchestral music and iconic Ibiza dance beats in Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife hotspot.
FIFTY SEVEN Waterloo St
6.2 km
Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at Fifty Seven Waterloo St, a chic nightclub pulsing with classic DJ beats and lively energy.
Carrolls
13.0 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Carrolls in Buncrana, Co. Donegal, where exceptional drinks and music create unforgettable memories.
Bailey Redcastle Nite Club
18.2 km
Discover the heart of Co. Donegal's nightlife at Bailey Redcastle Nite Club, where great music and vibrant energy await your arrival.
Tul Na Ri
22.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Co. Donegal at Tul Na Ri, where great music, dancing, and a friendly atmosphere await.
Halyon Club
24.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Halyon Club in Ballynally, Co. Donegal, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
XOX Strabane
26.2 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Strabane at XOX, the town’s premier nightclub for late-night music, dancing, and social energy.
PULSE VENUE
27.3 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at PULSE VENUE, Letterkenny's premier night club offering live music and unforgettable dance parties.
Fifth Avenue Letterkenny
27.4 km
Dive into the heart of Letterkenny's nightlife at Fifth Avenue, where vibrant music and lively dance floors create unforgettable moments.
Voodoo Venue
28.0 km
Experience the electric nightlife of Letterkenny at Voodoo Venue, where cocktails, live music, and vibrant energy await every visitor.
Empire Club
35.4 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Donegal at Empire Club, where great music and unforgettable experiences await you in a lively atmosphere.
The Legends Lounge
46.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Legends Lounge in Portrush, a perfect bar for enjoying drinks and local culture.
Kellys Complex Portrush
47.6 km
Discover the pulse of Portrush nightlife at Kellys Complex, where clubbing meets culinary delights in a vibrant atmosphere.
The Vault Nightclub
50.3 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Vault Nightclub in Omagh, where music, dancing, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
