The Quay Trail, Londonderry
A tranquil, scenic riverside trail weaving through Londonderry’s historic heart with stunning river and city skyline views.
The Quay Trail in Londonderry, UK, is a scenic riverside path along the west bank of the River Foyle. Stretching over 6 miles, it offers tranquil waterside views, city skyline panoramas, and access to key landmarks like the Peace Bridge. Popular for walking, running, and cycling, the trail blends urban energy with natural beauty, making it a peaceful retreat in the heart of the historic city.
A brief summary to The Quay Trail
- Londonderry, GB
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking or cycling on paved surfaces.
- Visit early morning or late afternoon for softer light and fewer crowds.
- Combine your walk with visits to nearby landmarks like the Peace Bridge and city walls.
- Bring layers and waterproofs as weather can change quickly along the river.
- Explore connecting paths on the east bank, including St. Columb’s Park for a longer outing.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Bus
Local bus services connect Londonderry city center with stops near the Quay Trail, with journey times from central points around 10-20 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day with fares typically between £2-£4. Check local timetables for exact routes and times.
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Taxi
Taxis from Londonderry city center to the Quay Trail area take approximately 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Fares generally range from £5-£10. Taxis are readily available but may have limited service late at night.
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Walking
The Quay Trail is accessible on foot from central Londonderry, with a walk of about 15-25 minutes over mostly flat, paved terrain. The route is suitable for most fitness levels and offers scenic views en route.
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Cycling
Cyclists can reach the Quay Trail easily via dedicated bike lanes from the city center. Bike rentals are available locally, and the trail itself is well-paved and suitable for riders of all skill levels.
The Quay Trail location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Clear Skies
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Windy Conditions
Discover more about The Quay Trail
A Riverside Pathway Through History and Nature
The Quay Trail traces the west embankment of the River Foyle, flowing through Londonderry’s vibrant cityscape. This paved multi-use path extends approximately 6.3 miles (10.1 km) from the Quay Docks in the north, winding southwards past iconic bridges such as the Peace Bridge and Craigavon Bridge. The trail offers a unique blend of urban and pastoral scenery, transitioning from bustling city views to quieter, green stretches beyond the central area.Scenic Views and Urban Landmarks
Along the trail, walkers and cyclists are treated to sweeping vistas of the River Foyle and Londonderry’s skyline. The Peace Bridge, a striking modern pedestrian and cycle bridge, is a highlight, providing panoramic river views and connecting the historic city center with the Waterside district. The trail’s proximity to the river allows for peaceful moments amid the city’s energy, with opportunities to observe river traffic and local wildlife.Recreational and Community Appeal
The Quay Trail is popular among locals and visitors alike for outdoor exercise, including jogging, cycling, and leisurely walks. Its mostly flat, paved surface makes it accessible for a wide range of users. The trail’s length and connectivity to other parks and paths, such as the east embankment route through St. Columb’s Park, encourage extended explorations and active lifestyles.Historical Context and Cultural Significance
Londonderry, also known as Derry, is Northern Ireland’s only fully walled city, rich in history and culture. The Quay Trail runs near the historic city walls and other significant sites, providing a scenic backdrop to the city’s storied past. Walking the trail offers a chance to reflect on the city’s heritage while enjoying its natural beauty.Seasonal and Practical Considerations
The trail is open year-round and is best enjoyed in mild weather conditions, though it remains accessible in most seasons. Comfortable footwear and layered clothing are recommended due to variable weather. The trail’s urban location means amenities such as cafes and restrooms are available nearby, enhancing visitor comfort.Connectivity and Further Exploration
The Quay Trail connects seamlessly with other walking routes and city attractions, making it an excellent starting point for exploring Londonderry. Visitors can extend their journey to include the city walls, Guildhall, and the Bogside murals, enriching the experience with cultural and historical insights.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Clock Tower
1.4 km
Historic Clock Tower at Ebrington Square, a timeless symbol of Londonderry’s military heritage and vibrant city life.
Bogside History Tours
1.6 km
Discover Londonderry's captivating history with Bogside History Tours, where every street tells a story and every mural speaks volumes.
Magazine Gate Derry City Walls
1.6 km
Explore Magazine Gate, the newest historic entrance to Derry’s iconic walled city, offering riverfront access and rich 19th-century heritage.
Haslett Monumental Sculptors
1.7 km
Explore the artistry and heritage of memorial craftsmanship at Haslett Monumental Sculptors in Londonderry, where memories are beautifully carved in stone.
BRICKWORK BAR
1.7 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Brickwork Bar in Londonderry, where local culture and friendly faces create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Lapwing Way Gospel Hall
1.8 km
A welcoming evangelical chapel offering spiritual reflection and community fellowship in Londonderry.
War Memorial
1.8 km
A solemn tribute to the fallen, standing at the heart of Derry's historic walled city since 1927.
Ferryquay Gate Derry City Walls
1.9 km
Step through the gate that started the Siege of Derry and walk the ramparts of one of Europe’s finest walled cities.
City Walking Tours
1.9 km
Discover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Londonderry with engaging guided walking tours exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
Double Bastion
2.1 km
Historic fortress bastion on Derry’s city walls, home to the legendary Roaring Meg cannon and panoramic views over the Bogside.
Cornerstone City Church
2.2 km
A vibrant community in Londonderry offering worship, outreach, and hope through faith and compassionate service.
Things To Do
3.9 km
Explore the vibrant history and stunning landscapes of Londonderry with unforgettable tours that bring the city's rich culture to life.
Wild Ireland
4.8 km
Explore Wild Ireland, where you can encounter native wildlife in stunning natural surroundings, perfect for families and nature lovers alike.
Ashbrook House
5.0 km
Explore Ashbrook House, a stunning historical landmark in Londonderry, where rich heritage meets breathtaking landscapes.
Amazing Grace Viewing Point
16.9 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.
Unmissable attractions to see
Quay docks
0.1 km
Historic Quay Docks in Londonderry offer scenic river views, rich maritime heritage, and vibrant waterfront culture in Northern Ireland’s iconic port city.
Quay Trail lookout
0.2 km
Discover panoramic river views and urban charm at Londonderry’s scenic Quay Trail Lookout along the peaceful River Foyle waterfront.
Bay Road Park Local Nature Reserve
0.8 km
A serene 20-hectare riverside nature reserve in Londonderry, transformed from landfill into a vibrant habitat rich with wildlife and peaceful trails.
St Columb's Park
1.0 km
A historic 70-acre park blending natural beauty, heritage, and modern recreation on the banks of the River Foyle in Londonderry.
Foyle Arena
1.2 km
Londonderry’s premier leisure centre offering swimming, fitness, climbing, and event spaces for all ages and interests.
Quayside Shopping Centre
1.3 km
A vibrant shopping and leisure hub in Londonderry with diverse stores, cinema, and convenient amenities by the River Foyle.
Ebrington Square
1.4 km
Historic military grounds reborn as a vibrant cultural plaza with river views, art, dining, and events in the heart of Londonderry.
Walled City Brewery
1.5 km
Family-run craft brewery and restaurant in historic Ebrington Square, serving artisan beers and locally inspired dishes in vibrant Derry.
Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin
1.5 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Irish language, music, and culture at Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin in the historic city of Derry.
The Peace Bridge
1.5 km
A stunning pedestrian bridge in Derry symbolizing peace and unity across the River Foyle, linking divided communities with elegant design.
Shantallow House
1.5 km
A beloved pub in Londonderry offering warm hospitality, quality food, and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors alike.
North West Silent Disco Tours
1.5 km
Dance and discover Londonderry’s vibrant streets with North West Silent Disco Tours, a unique blend of music, culture, and fun.
Guildhall
1.5 km
Discover Derry’s iconic neo-Gothic Guildhall, a historic civic and cultural landmark renowned for its stunning stained glass, grand organ, and vibrant events.
Brooke Park Derry
1.5 km
Historic Victorian park in Derry offering lush gardens, panoramic city views, and a vibrant community space for all ages.
St Eugene's Cathedral
1.6 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
Caterina’s Bistro, Da Vinci's Hotel
0.4 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)
0.6 km
Riverside street food delight in Londonderry, serving bold burgers and tacos from a unique shipping container kitchen and double-decker bus.
Timber Quay Restaurant Derry
0.7 km
Modern European dining by the River Foyle with fresh flavors, friendly service, and a stylish, relaxed atmosphere in Londonderry.
The Delacroix
0.9 km
A cozy and affordable pub-restaurant on Buncrana Road offering hearty meals and friendly vibes in the heart of Londonderry.
Scarpello & Co Bakehouse & Pizzeria
1.0 km
Artisan sourdough, wood-fired pizzas, and homemade pastries in a warm, community-focused bakehouse on Buncrana Road.
Quaywest Wine Bar & Restaurant
1.0 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
1.1 km
A welcoming waterfront restaurant and bar in Londonderry offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a relaxed atmosphere on Queens Quay.
Mama Masala
1.1 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Indian and Italian flavors at Mama Masala, a lively and welcoming restaurant in Londonderry’s Queens Quay.
Mandarin Palace
1.2 km
A vibrant fusion of Chinese and Asian flavors with stylish decor and a lively cocktail bar on Londonderry’s Queens Quay.
Guapo Fresh Mexican
1.2 km
Fresh, flavorful Mexican cuisine with customizable heat levels served in a casual riverside setting in Londonderry.
Umi
1.3 km
Experience innovative Asian fusion cuisine and unique cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting on Londonderry’s Strand Road.
Pyke 'N' Pommes (53-55)
1.3 km
Discover bold, locally sourced street food in a vibrant, casual setting at Pyke 'N' Pommes on Londonderry’s Strand Road.
The Embankment Bar & Grill
1.3 km
Riverside dining excellence with generous portions, craft cocktails, and attentive service in Londonderry.
Istanbul Turkish Restaurant
1.3 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality await you in the heart of Londonderry at Istanbul Turkish Restaurant.
STITCH & WEAVE
1.4 km
Discover the perfect blend of local flavors and vibrant nightlife at STITCH & WEAVE in Londonderry.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Little Acorns Bookstore
1.4 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.
The Irish Gift Centre
1.5 km
Authentic Irish crafts and Celtic treasures in the heart of Londonderry’s vibrant cultural scene.
izudoo Derry Shopping Guide - Clothes Shops
1.6 km
Londonderry's insider guide to contemporary fashion and local shopping culture.
The Holy Shop
1.6 km
A welcoming sanctuary in Londonderry offering a rich selection of religious goods and spiritual gifts for all faith milestones.
The Bus Stop Stores
1.6 km
Discover convenience in Londonderry at The Bus Stop Stores, your go-to spot for snacks, drinks, and travel essentials.
Storefront
1.6 km
Discover premium Irish-designed clothing and unique styles at Storefront, Londonderry’s independent fashion boutique on Waterloo Street.
The Gift Box
1.7 km
Discover unique, thoughtful gifts in a charming shop with 30 years of history on Derry’s historic Shipquay Street.
Moments Gift Shop
1.7 km
Explore Moments Gift Shop in Londonderry for unique gifts and local wedding essentials, blending culture with creativity in every purchase.
The Irish Shop
1.7 km
Discover authentic Irish crafts and heritage treasures in the heart of Derry’s charming Craft Village.
The Sacred Tree
1.7 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
1.7 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares blending Irish tradition and modern style in the heart of Londonderry.
Pippa
1.7 km
Discover unique women's fashion at Pippa, Londonderry's chic boutique, your go-to for stylish clothing and local fashion finds.
Walled City Crafters
1.7 km
Discover authentic local crafts and handmade treasures in Derry’s charming 18th-century Craft Village.
Number 19 Craft & Design
1.7 km
Discover exquisite handmade crafts by local artisans in the charming historic setting of Derry’s Craft Village.
Harmony
1.7 km
Discover unique gifts and wellness treasures at Harmony, a charming boutique in the heart of Londonderry’s vibrant shopping district.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Phoenix Bar & Off License
1.3 km
A vibrant, welcoming pub in Londonderry offering lively music, affordable drinks, and authentic Irish hospitality from morning till late night.
The Trinity Bar
1.4 km
A lively Londonderry bar blending traditional Irish charm with unique decor, great drinks, and hearty local fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
Tinney's Bar & The Shirt Factory
1.4 km
Historic family-owned Irish pub in Londonderry famed for legendary Guinness, lively local atmosphere, and shirt factory heritage.
Grand Central Bar
1.4 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.
Jack's Bar
1.5 km
Experience authentic Northern Irish hospitality and hearty pub fare in the cozy and lively Jack's Bar at Londonderry's Little James Street.
The Park Bar
1.5 km
A historic family-run pub in Londonderry renowned for its warm hospitality, excellent Guinness, and vibrant Irish cultural nights.
The Derby Bar
1.5 km
A warm, inviting pub in Londonderry offering cozy snugs, excellent Guinness, and a lively yet relaxed atmosphere daily until midnight.
Nacional de Cuba
1.5 km
A vibrant and welcoming cocktail bar in Londonderry, famed for its lively karaoke nights, eclectic music, and expertly crafted drinks.
Silver Street Derry
1.6 km
Historic charm and lively modern lounge vibes converge at Silver Street Derry, part of the iconic River Inn since 1684.
Porter's Bar
1.6 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively heart of Londonderry at Porter's Bar.
Blackbird
1.6 km
Blackbird is a lively Londonderry pub offering fine brews, a welcoming atmosphere, and a growing kitchen menu from midday to late night.
Dungloe Bar
1.7 km
Historic Irish pub since 1892, offering live music, hearty food, and a warm atmosphere in the heart of Londonderry’s Waterloo Street.
The Thirsty Goat Derry
1.7 km
A lively bar and beer garden in Londonderry offering traditional Irish fare, craft beers, and live music seven nights a week.
Lizzie O'Farrell's
1.7 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.
Sandinos
1.7 km
Experience Londonderry’s dynamic live music and vibrant social scene at Sandinos, a beloved bar and café on historic Water Street.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
Ibiza Orchestra Live
1.3 km
Experience the electrifying fusion of live orchestral music and iconic Ibiza dance beats in Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife hotspot.
izudoo Derry Pub & Night Club Guide
1.6 km
Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at izudoo — a lively pub and nightclub with great music, drinks, and unforgettable nights out.
FIFTY SEVEN Waterloo St
1.6 km
Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at Fifty Seven Waterloo St, a chic nightclub pulsing with classic DJ beats and lively energy.
Carrolls
17.8 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Carrolls in Buncrana, Co. Donegal, where exceptional drinks and music create unforgettable memories.
Bailey Redcastle Nite Club
20.5 km
Discover the heart of Co. Donegal's nightlife at Bailey Redcastle Nite Club, where great music and vibrant energy await your arrival.
XOX Strabane
22.6 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Strabane at XOX, the town’s premier nightclub for late-night music, dancing, and social energy.
Halyon Club
26.3 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
26.9 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Co. Donegal at Tul Na Ri, where great music, dancing, and a friendly atmosphere await.
PULSE VENUE
27.4 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at PULSE VENUE, Letterkenny's premier night club offering live music and unforgettable dance parties.
Fifth Avenue Letterkenny
27.6 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
39.0 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
45.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Vault Nightclub in Omagh, where music, dancing, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Tiger Lillys
45.8 km
Omagh’s vibrant jungle-themed nightclub offering fresh cocktails and lively nights exclusively for the 18+ crowd.
The Legends Lounge
46.6 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
- Scenic
- Casual
- Tranquil
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Modern Designs
- Colorful Aesthetics
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Viewpoints
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Skyline
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Low Impact
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Nature Escape
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
- Cultural Heritage
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
