Lisfannon Park: Tranquil Coastal Escape in Londonderry
A peaceful coastal park in Londonderry with golden sands, scenic views, and rich birdlife, perfect for family outings and nature lovers.
Lisfannon Park in Londonderry is a serene coastal park offering stunning natural scenery, sandy beaches, and panoramic views across Lough Swilly. Ideal for picnics, leisurely walks, and family outings, it features soft golden sands, grassy dunes, and abundant birdlife, making it a peaceful retreat close to the city.
A brief summary to Lisfannon Park
- Londonderry, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Visit during low tide to explore the sandy beach and enjoy expansive views across Lough Swilly.
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching to spot lapwings, reed buntings, and other local species.
- Pack a picnic to enjoy in the grassy knolls while taking in the tranquil coastal atmosphere.
- Combine your visit with a trip to nearby historical sites like the Grianan of Aileach for a cultural day out.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Take the Translink Ulsterbus service from Londonderry city center to Buncrana, then a local taxi or short bus ride to Lisfannon Park. Total travel time is approximately 45-60 minutes. Bus fares range from £5 to £8 one way.
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Car
Driving from Londonderry city center to Lisfannon Park takes about 25-30 minutes via the A2 coastal route. Parking is available near the beach area but can be limited during peak times. No parking fees apply.
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Walking
For active visitors, a walk from Londonderry city center to Lisfannon Park is approximately 10 km and takes around 2.5 to 3 hours along mostly flat terrain. Suitable for experienced walkers; bring water and weather-appropriate clothing.
Lisfannon Park location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about Lisfannon Park
Natural Beauty and Coastal Charm
Lisfannon Park is nestled along the eastern shore of Lough Swilly, providing visitors with sweeping panoramic views of the water and surrounding landscapes. The park features soft golden sands and grassy dunes that create a picturesque setting for relaxation and exploration. The calm, deep waters of Lough Swilly allow for occasional boat activity, adding to the maritime atmosphere.Wildlife and Birdwatching Opportunities
This area is recognized as an important natural heritage site and wetlands habitat, supporting a diverse range of bird species. Visitors can spot lapwings, reed buntings, yellowhammers, chaffinches, robins, and various gulls, making Lisfannon Park a favored spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers alike.Recreational Activities and Family-Friendly Atmosphere
The park’s open spaces and gentle terrain make it perfect for picnics, casual strolls, and family outings. The beach area invites visitors to enjoy the soft sands and tranquil waters, while the surrounding grassy knolls provide ideal spots for relaxation and scenic views. Its peaceful environment ensures a calm and rejuvenating experience.Historical and Cultural Context
Lisfannon and the adjacent Lisfannon Beach have a rich maritime history, including tales of smuggling from earlier centuries. Today, the area is a quiet retreat that still echoes its historical significance through the landscape and local lore.Nearby Attractions and Exploration
Situated about a 25-minute drive from central Londonderry, Lisfannon Park is also close to other notable sites such as the Grianan of Aileach, a Neolithic fort, and Wild Ireland animal sanctuary. These nearby destinations complement a visit to Lisfannon with cultural and natural exploration opportunities.Accessibility and Visitor Amenities
The park is accessible by car with parking available near the beach area, allowing easy access for visitors. The terrain is mostly flat and suitable for all ages, making it an inclusive destination. Basic amenities like seating areas and trash bins support a comfortable visit, though facilities are limited, so planning ahead is advised.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Double Bastion
0.3 km
Historic fortress bastion on Derry’s city walls, home to the legendary Roaring Meg cannon and panoramic views over the Bogside.
BRICKWORK BAR
0.4 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Brickwork Bar in Londonderry, where local culture and friendly faces create an unforgettable atmosphere.
War Memorial
0.4 km
A solemn tribute to the fallen, standing at the heart of Derry's historic walled city since 1927.
Magazine Gate Derry City Walls
0.5 km
Explore Magazine Gate, the newest historic entrance to Derry’s iconic walled city, offering riverfront access and rich 19th-century heritage.
Ferryquay Gate Derry City Walls
0.5 km
Step through the gate that started the Siege of Derry and walk the ramparts of one of Europe’s finest walled cities.
Bogside History Tours
0.5 km
Discover Londonderry's captivating history with Bogside History Tours, where every street tells a story and every mural speaks volumes.
City Walking Tours
0.6 km
Discover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Londonderry with engaging guided walking tours exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
The Clock Tower
1.1 km
Historic Clock Tower at Ebrington Square, a timeless symbol of Londonderry’s military heritage and vibrant city life.
Cornerstone City Church
1.1 km
A vibrant community in Londonderry offering worship, outreach, and hope through faith and compassionate service.
Haslett Monumental Sculptors
1.2 km
Explore the artistry and heritage of memorial craftsmanship at Haslett Monumental Sculptors in Londonderry, where memories are beautifully carved in stone.
Lapwing Way Gospel Hall
1.6 km
A welcoming evangelical chapel offering spiritual reflection and community fellowship in Londonderry.
Things To Do
3.2 km
Explore the vibrant history and stunning landscapes of Londonderry with unforgettable tours that bring the city's rich culture to life.
Wild Ireland
6.2 km
Explore Wild Ireland, where you can encounter native wildlife in stunning natural surroundings, perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Amazing Grace Viewing Point
17.8 km
Where a storm‑tossed sailor found grace and penned one of the world’s most beloved hymns, overlooking the waters of Lough Swilly in Buncrana.
Oakfield Park
20.7 km
Experience the serene beauty of Oakfield Park in Donegal, a stunning garden retreat perfect for nature lovers and families seeking tranquility.
Unmissable attractions to see
Free Derry Corner
0.1 km
Discover Free Derry Corner, a historic landmark in Londonderry embodying the spirit of resilience and civil rights through its iconic murals.
Museum of Free Derry
0.1 km
Explore the powerful history and enduring spirit of Derry’s civil rights movement at the Museum of Free Derry.
Bloody Sunday Monument
0.2 km
Visit the Bloody Sunday Monument in Londonderry to honor the victims of a tragic event and immerse yourself in the rich history of Northern Ireland.
Rossville St
0.2 km
Rossville Street in Londonderry stands as a vivid canvas of history, murals, and memories from the heart of the Bogside’s civil rights struggle.
Bloody Sunday Trust
0.2 km
A powerful community museum in Derry’s Bogside, telling the story of civil rights, Free Derry and Bloody Sunday through personal testimonies and original artefacts.
The Derry Walls
0.2 km
Discover the rich history and stunning vistas at The Derry Walls, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Londonderry, Northern Ireland.
Apprentice Boy's Memorial Hall
0.3 km
Historic memorial and cultural hub honoring the apprentice boys who defended Londonderry during the 1688 siege.
The Siege Museum
0.3 km
Explore the dramatic 1689 Siege of Derry through immersive exhibits and heritage rooms honoring the city’s enduring legacy.
St Augustine's Church of Ireland
0.3 km
Discover the serene neo-Gothic St Augustine's Church, a historic spiritual oasis nestled on Londonderry’s ancient city walls.
First Derry Presbyterian Church
0.3 km
A historic Presbyterian church in Derry~Londonderry, rooted in the city’s 1690 siege and offering quiet reflection in a central urban setting.
The Yellow Yard
0.3 km
Discover Londonderry’s vibrant vintage market blending unique finds, local art, and a lively atmosphere on Palace Street.
Peoples Gallery
0.3 km
A striking open-air mural gallery in Londonderry commemorating the Northern Ireland Troubles through powerful art by the Bogside Artists.
Le Petit Village
0.4 km
A charming, imaginative children’s play café in Londonderry’s city centre, perfect for infants and toddlers to explore and create.
The St Columba Heritage Centre.
0.4 km
Discover the rich spiritual heritage of Derry through the life and legacy of St Columba at this immersive heritage centre.
St Eugene's Cathedral
0.4 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.
Essential places to dine
The Rocking Chair
0.3 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Rocking Chair in Londonderry - where great food meets live music in a charming pub setting.
SPAGHETTI JUNCTION
0.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively evenings at Spaghetti Junction, Londonderry’s beloved Mediterranean restaurant.
Social Studio Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience innovative cuisine and crafted cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting at Social Studio Restaurant, Londonderry’s culinary gem.
Mekong
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Vietnamese fusion cuisine with fresh flavors and friendly service in the heart of Londonderry’s cultural district.
The Gown Restaurant
0.4 km
Experience refined Irish cuisine in a historic setting with seasonally inspired dishes crafted from the freshest local ingredients in Derry’s Cathedral Quarter.
Hidden City Cafe
0.4 km
Ethical family café in Londonderry offering creative, plant-based cuisine with local ingredients and a vibrant, relaxed atmosphere.
Castle Street Social
0.4 km
A lively social restaurant in Derry serving innovative local dishes, vegan and gluten-free options, with a vibrant bar and welcoming atmosphere.
Valentine's restaurant @ serendipity house derry
0.4 km
Experience authentic Irish flavors and warm hospitality at Valentine's Restaurant, nestled in the heart of historic Londonderry within Serendipity House.
Tracy's Bar
0.4 km
Discover Tracy's Bar in Londonderry – a lively restaurant and bar perfect for enjoying delicious food and drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Dirty Souls
0.4 km
Savor authentic Southern BBQ and soulful flavors with expertly smoked meats and creative cocktails in the heart of Londonderry.
The Scullery Cafe
0.4 km
Charming artisan café in Londonderry serving fresh Irish breakfasts, lunches, and homemade treats in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
El Tapas Grá
0.4 km
Experience vibrant Catalan-inspired tapas crafted with fresh Irish ingredients in a warm, rustic setting in the heart of Derry.
COUPE by The Dirty Souls - Smokehouse/BBQ
0.4 km
Authentic Texas-style BBQ in the heart of Londonderry, serving smoked meats, bold sauces, and craft drinks in a vibrant smokehouse setting.
Artis Restaurant By Phelim O' Hagan
0.4 km
Discover exquisite Irish cuisine at Artis Restaurant in Londonderry's Craft Village—where fresh ingredients meet culinary artistry.
Shipquay Restaurant
0.5 km
Refined Irish dining in a historic boutique hotel overlooking Derry’s iconic City Walls and Guildhall.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Harmony
0.3 km
Discover unique gifts and wellness treasures at Harmony, a charming boutique in the heart of Londonderry’s vibrant shopping district.
Moments Gift Shop
0.4 km
Explore Moments Gift Shop in Londonderry for unique gifts and local wedding essentials, blending culture with creativity in every purchase.
Pippa
0.4 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Pippa, Londonderry's chic boutique, your go-to for stylish clothing and local fashion finds.
BELLE & ROSE
0.4 km
Discover handcrafted gifts and artistic charm at Belle & Rose, Londonderry’s boutique for meaningful presents.
The Whatnot
0.4 km
A charming antique shop in Derry~Londonderry, packed with vintage furniture, curiosities, and collectibles from bygone eras.
Storefront
0.4 km
Discover premium Irish-designed clothing and unique styles at Storefront, Londonderry’s independent fashion boutique on Waterloo Street.
The Holy Shop
0.4 km
A welcoming sanctuary in Londonderry offering a rich selection of religious goods and spiritual gifts for all faith milestones.
The Donegal Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Irish crafts and timeless knitwear in Derry’s family-run Donegal Shop, a heritage hub for Celtic artistry since 1963.
SmartSwag
0.4 km
Discover unique handmade treasures and local artistry at SmartSwag, Londonderry’s vibrant craft shop on London Street.
The Irish Shop
0.4 km
Discover authentic Irish crafts and heritage treasures in the heart of Derry’s charming Craft Village.
The Irish Gift Centre
0.4 km
Authentic Irish crafts and Celtic treasures in the heart of Londonderry’s vibrant cultural scene.
Derry Designer Makers
0.4 km
A vibrant craft collective in Derry’s charming Craft Village, showcasing handmade jewellery, ceramics, textiles, art and more from local North West makers.
Little Acorns Bookstore
0.4 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.
Number 19 Craft & Design
0.4 km
Discover exquisite handmade crafts by local artisans in the charming historic setting of Derry’s Craft Village.
Mermaid Cove
0.4 km
Discover handcrafted bath bombs, natural cosmetics, and exclusive home fragrances at Mermaid Cove in historic Derry’s Richmond Centre.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lizzie O'Farrell's
0.4 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.
Celtic Bar
0.4 km
A friendly, affordable bar in the heart of Londonderry offering lively music and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors.
Dungloe Bar
0.4 km
Historic Irish pub since 1892, offering live music, hearty food, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of Londonderry’s Waterloo Street.
Masons Bar
0.4 km
Experience authentic local charm and warm hospitality at Masons Bar, a cozy and affordable retreat in the heart of Londonderry.
The Derby Bar
0.4 km
A warm, inviting pub in Londonderry offering cozy snugs, excellent Guinness, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere daily until midnight.
Jack's Bar
0.4 km
Experience authentic Northern Irish hospitality and hearty pub fare in the cozy and lively Jack's Bar at Londonderry's Little James Street.
Nacional de Cuba
0.4 km
A vibrant and welcoming cocktail bar in Londonderry, famed for its lively karaoke nights, eclectic music, and expertly crafted drinks.
The Park Bar
0.4 km
A historic family-run pub in Londonderry renowned for its warm hospitality, excellent Guinness, and vibrant Irish cultural nights.
Grand Central Bar
0.5 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.
Silver Street Derry
0.5 km
Historic charm and lively modern lounge vibes converge at Silver Street Derry, part of the iconic River Inn since 1684.
The Thirsty Goat Derry
0.5 km
A lively bar and beer garden in Londonderry offering traditional Irish fare, craft beers, and live music seven nights a week.
Tinney's Bar & The Shirt Factory
0.5 km
Historic family-owned Irish pub in Londonderry famed for legendary Guinness, lively local atmosphere, and shirt factory heritage.
Oakgrove Bar
0.5 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality, lively entertainment, and a cozy atmosphere at Oakgrove Bar in the heart of Londonderry.
The Trinity Bar
0.5 km
A lively Londonderry bar blending traditional Irish charm with unique decor, great drinks, and hearty local fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
Porter's Bar
0.6 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively heart of Londonderry at Porter's Bar.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
FIFTY SEVEN Waterloo St
0.4 km
Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at Fifty Seven Waterloo St, a chic nightclub pulsing with classic DJ beats and lively energy.
izudoo Derry Pub & Night Club Guide
0.9 km
Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at izudoo — a lively pub and nightclub with great music, drinks, and unforgettable nights out.
Ibiza Orchestra Live
1.1 km
Experience the electrifying fusion of live orchestral music and iconic Ibiza dance beats in Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife hotspot.
Carrolls
18.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Carrolls in Buncrana, Co. Donegal, where exceptional drinks and music create unforgettable memories.
XOX Strabane
20.7 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Strabane at XOX, the town’s premier nightclub for late-night music, dancing, and social energy.
Bailey Redcastle Nite Club
22.3 km
Discover the heart of Co. Donegal's nightlife at Bailey Redcastle Nite Club, where great music and vibrant energy await your arrival.
PULSE VENUE
26.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at PULSE VENUE, Letterkenny's premier night club offering live music and unforgettable dance parties.
Fifth Avenue Letterkenny
26.3 km
Dive into the heart of Letterkenny's nightlife at Fifth Avenue, where vibrant music and lively dance floors create unforgettable moments.
Voodoo Venue
26.7 km
Experience the electric nightlife of Letterkenny at Voodoo Venue, where cocktails, live music, and vibrant energy await every visitor.
Halyon Club
28.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Halyon Club in Ballynally, Co. Donegal, where music, dance, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Tul Na Ri
28.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Co. Donegal at Tul Na Ri, where great music, dancing, and a friendly atmosphere await.
Empire Club
39.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife of Donegal at Empire Club, where great music and unforgettable experiences await you in a lively atmosphere.
The Vault Nightclub
44.1 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Vault Nightclub in Omagh, where music, dancing, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Tiger Lillys
44.2 km
Omagh’s vibrant jungle-themed nightclub offering fresh cocktails and lively nights exclusively for the 18+ crowd.
The Legends Lounge
48.2 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Legends Lounge in Portrush, a perfect bar for enjoying drinks and local culture.
For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Family Friendly
- Casual
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Rustic Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Parks & Gardens
- Viewpoints
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Waterfront
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Eco-Friendly
- Protected Area
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
- Wildlife Habitat
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly