Brooke Park: Victorian Green Haven in the Heart of Derry
Historic Victorian park in Derry offering lush gardens, panoramic city views, and a vibrant community space for all ages.
Brooke Park is a historic 3.88-acre Victorian park located in central Derry, Northern Ireland. Established in 1901, it offers beautifully landscaped gardens, a children’s playground, a café, and panoramic views over the city. After extensive regeneration, it stands as a cherished green space blending rich heritage with modern amenities, perfect for relaxation and family outings.
A brief summary to Brooke Park Derry
- Rosemount Ave, Londonderry, Londonderry, BT48 0HH, GB
- +442871262637
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Free
-
Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 7:30 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 7:30 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 7:30 am-10 pm
- Thursday 7:30 am-10 pm
- Friday 7:30 am-10 pm
- Saturday 7:30 am-10 pm
- Sunday 7:30 am-10 pm
Local tips
- Visit during spring or summer to enjoy the full bloom of the rose gardens and vibrant greenery.
- Take advantage of the café on site for refreshments after exploring the park’s walking paths.
- Bring children to enjoy the well-equipped playground and open spaces for play.
- Wear comfortable shoes as the park is situated on a gentle hill with some steep paths.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Information Boards
Getting There
-
Bus
Take local bus routes serving the Rosemount Avenue area from Derry city centre, with a journey time of approximately 10-15 minutes. Buses run frequently during the day with fares around £2-£3. The stop is a short walk from the park entrance.
-
Taxi
A taxi from Derry city centre to Brooke Park takes about 5-10 minutes depending on traffic, costing approximately £5-£8. Taxis are readily available and provide a convenient option for groups or those with mobility needs.
-
Walking
Brooke Park is located about 1 km northwest of the city centre. A walk takes roughly 15-20 minutes along paved urban streets with some gentle uphill sections. The route is accessible but may be moderately challenging for those with limited mobility.
Brooke Park Derry location weather suitability
-
Any Weather
-
Rain / Wet Weather
-
Clear Skies
-
Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Brooke Park Derry
A Legacy Rooted in Philanthropy and History
Brooke Park’s origins trace back to the 19th century when the grounds were part of the Gwyn's Institute orphanage, funded by local linen merchant John Gwyn. Later, the park was established through the bequest of James Hood Brooke, a local philanthropist who wished to create a public green space for the citizens of Derry. Officially opened in 1901, the park quickly became known as ‘the people’s park’, hosting royal visits including King Edward VII in 1903 and Queen Elizabeth II in 1953.Victorian Design Meets Modern Regeneration
Spanning nearly 4 acres, Brooke Park showcases classic Victorian landscaping with formal terraces, rose gardens, shrubberies, and a pond. The park fell into decline during the Troubles but underwent a major £5.6 million restoration, reopening in 2017 with refreshed gardens, restored pathways, and improved facilities. Today, it balances its historic charm with contemporary features like a café and children’s play area.Natural Beauty and Recreational Appeal
The park’s lush lawns and mature trees create a tranquil urban oasis. Visitors enjoy strolling winding paths that offer scenic views over Derry’s skyline, including landmarks like St Eugene’s Cathedral. The children’s playground and football pitch provide active recreation, while picnic tables and seating areas invite leisurely afternoons. Wildlife and seasonal blooms add to the sensory experience.Cultural Significance and Community Spirit
Brooke Park remains a focal point for community events and celebrations, reflecting its enduring role in Derry’s social fabric. Its monuments, including a statue of Sir Robert Ferguson, and commemorative tree plantings connect visitors to the city’s heritage. The park’s accessibility and free entry make it a welcoming space for all ages and backgrounds.Visitor Experience and Amenities
Open daily from early morning until late evening, Brooke Park offers wheelchair-accessible entrances and parking, ensuring inclusivity. The on-site café provides refreshments, while information boards share the park’s history. With nearly 600 photos capturing its beauty, the park is a favorite spot for photography and quiet reflection.Brooke Park’s Place in Derry Today
As a green lung in the city centre, Brooke Park exemplifies successful urban regeneration that honors history while serving contemporary needs. Its blend of Victorian elegance, natural tranquility, and community vitality makes it a must-visit destination for residents and tourists alike, offering a peaceful retreat with a rich story to tell.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Magazine Gate Derry City Walls
0.8 km
Explore Magazine Gate, the newest historic entrance to Derry’s iconic walled city, offering riverfront access and rich 19th-century heritage.
BRICKWORK BAR
0.8 km
Discover the vibrant charm of Brickwork Bar in Londonderry, where local culture and friendly faces create an unforgettable atmosphere.
Bogside History Tours
0.9 km
Discover Londonderry's captivating history with Bogside History Tours, where every street tells a story and every mural speaks volumes.
War Memorial
0.9 km
A solemn tribute to the fallen, standing at the heart of Derry's historic walled city since 1927.
Double Bastion
1.0 km
Historic fortress bastion on Derry’s city walls, home to the legendary Roaring Meg cannon and panoramic views over the Bogside.
Ferryquay Gate Derry City Walls
1.1 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
1.1 km
Discover the captivating history and vibrant culture of Londonderry with engaging guided walking tours exploring iconic landmarks and hidden gems.
The Clock Tower
1.4 km
Historic Clock Tower at Ebrington Square, a timeless symbol of Londonderry’s military heritage and vibrant city life.
Haslett Monumental Sculptors
1.5 km
Explore the artistry and heritage of memorial craftsmanship at Haslett Monumental Sculptors in Londonderry, where memories are beautifully carved in stone.
Cornerstone City Church
1.7 km
A vibrant community in Londonderry offering worship, outreach, and hope through faith and compassionate service.
Lapwing Way Gospel Hall
1.9 km
A welcoming evangelical chapel offering spiritual reflection and community fellowship in Londonderry.
Things To Do
3.8 km
Explore the vibrant history and stunning landscapes of Londonderry with unforgettable tours that bring the city's rich culture to life.
Ashbrook House
4.9 km
Explore Ashbrook House, a stunning historical landmark in Londonderry, where rich heritage meets breathtaking landscapes.
Wild Ireland
5.6 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
17.2 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
St Eugene's Cathedral
0.3 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.
Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin
0.5 km
Discover the vibrant heart of Irish language, music, and culture at Cultúrlann Uí Chanáin in the historic city of Derry.
Crescent Bar
0.5 km
A cozy, community-focused pub in Londonderry’s Creggan area, offering hearty fare, local drinks, and live music in a warm atmosphere.
Peoples Gallery
0.6 km
A striking open-air mural gallery in Londonderry commemorating the Northern Ireland Troubles through powerful art by the Bogside Artists.
Lisfannon Park
0.6 km
A peaceful coastal park in Londonderry with golden sands, scenic views, and rich birdlife, perfect for family outings and nature lovers.
Museum of Free Derry
0.6 km
Explore the powerful history and enduring spirit of Derry’s civil rights movement at the Museum of Free Derry.
Quayside Shopping Centre
0.6 km
A vibrant shopping and leisure hub in Londonderry with diverse stores, cinema, and convenient amenities by the River Foyle.
Bloody Sunday Trust
0.7 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.
Rossville St
0.7 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 Monument
0.7 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.
Free Derry Corner
0.7 km
Discover Free Derry Corner, a historic landmark in Londonderry embodying the spirit of resilience and civil rights through its iconic murals.
Peadar O'Donnell's
0.8 km
Experience authentic Irish music and warm hospitality in Londonderry’s iconic Peadar O'Donnell's pub, where tradition meets lively nightlife.
Visit Derry
0.8 km
Your welcoming gateway to Derry’s history, culture, and tours, offering expert advice and interactive experiences in the heart of the Walled City.
Derrie Danders Walking and Audio Tours
0.8 km
Discover Londonderry’s rich history and culture through engaging, historically accurate walking and audio tours led by passionate local guide David Douglas.
First Derry Presbyterian Church
0.8 km
A historic Presbyterian church in Derry~Londonderry, rooted in the city’s 1690 siege and offering quiet reflection in a central urban setting.
Essential places to dine
Valentine's restaurant @ serendipity house derry
0.3 km
Experience authentic Irish flavors and warm hospitality at Valentine's Restaurant, nestled in the heart of historic Londonderry within Serendipity House.
Guapo Fresh Mexican
0.6 km
Fresh, flavorful Mexican cuisine with customizable heat levels served in a casual riverside setting in Londonderry.
Umi
0.6 km
Experience innovative Asian fusion cuisine and unique cocktails in a stylish, welcoming setting on Londonderry’s Strand Road.
Pyke 'N' Pommes (53-55)
0.6 km
Discover bold, locally sourced street food in a vibrant, casual setting at Pyke 'N' Pommes on Londonderry’s Strand Road.
Mama Masala
0.6 km
Experience the vibrant fusion of Indian and Italian flavors at Mama Masala, a lively and welcoming restaurant in Londonderry’s Queens Quay.
Quaywest Wine Bar & Restaurant
0.6 km
A vibrant riverside wine bar and steakhouse in Derry offering modern fusion cuisine, live music, and a welcoming atmosphere.
Istanbul Turkish Restaurant
0.6 km
Authentic Turkish flavors and warm hospitality await you in the heart of Londonderry at Istanbul Turkish Restaurant.
SPAGHETTI JUNCTION
0.6 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and lively evenings at Spaghetti Junction, Londonderry’s beloved Mediterranean restaurant.
The Old Docks Bar & Grill
0.6 km
A welcoming waterfront restaurant and bar in Londonderry offering hearty dishes, friendly service, and a relaxed atmosphere on Queens Quay.
Mandarin Palace
0.7 km
A vibrant fusion of Chinese and Asian flavors with stylish decor and a lively cocktail bar on Londonderry’s Queens Quay.
Browns In Town
0.7 km
Modern Irish cuisine with a creative twist in a warm, casual setting on Londonderry’s Strand Road.
El Tapas Grá
0.7 km
Experience vibrant Catalan-inspired tapas crafted with fresh Irish ingredients in a warm, rustic setting in the heart of Derry.
Tracy's Bar
0.8 km
Discover Tracy's Bar in Londonderry – a lively restaurant and bar perfect for enjoying delicious food and drinks in a welcoming atmosphere.
The Rocking Chair
0.8 km
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of The Rocking Chair in Londonderry - where great food meets live music in a charming pub setting.
The Scullery Cafe
0.8 km
Charming artisan café in Londonderry serving fresh Irish breakfasts, lunches, and homemade treats in a cozy, welcoming atmosphere.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
izudoo Derry Shopping Guide - Clothes Shops
0.3 km
Londonderry's insider guide to contemporary fashion and local shopping culture.
Little Acorns Bookstore
0.5 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
0.7 km
Authentic Irish crafts and Celtic treasures in the heart of Londonderry’s vibrant cultural scene.
Moments Gift Shop
0.8 km
Explore Moments Gift Shop in Londonderry for unique gifts and local wedding essentials, blending culture with creativity in every purchase.
Harmony
0.8 km
Discover unique gifts and wellness treasures at Harmony, a charming boutique in the heart of Londonderry’s vibrant shopping district.
Storefront
0.8 km
Discover premium Irish-designed clothing and unique styles at Storefront, Londonderry’s independent fashion boutique on Waterloo Street.
The Holy Shop
0.8 km
A welcoming sanctuary in Londonderry offering a rich selection of religious goods and spiritual gifts for all faith milestones.
Pippa
0.8 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
0.9 km
Discover authentic Irish crafts and heritage treasures in the heart of Derry’s charming Craft Village.
The Donegal Shop
0.9 km
Discover authentic Irish crafts and timeless knitwear in Derry’s family-run Donegal Shop, a heritage hub for Celtic artistry since 1963.
Walled City Crafters
0.9 km
Discover authentic local crafts and handmade treasures in Derry’s charming 18th-century Craft Village.
Number 19 Craft & Design
0.9 km
Discover exquisite handmade crafts by local artisans in the charming historic setting of Derry’s Craft Village.
The Gift Box
0.9 km
Discover unique, thoughtful gifts in a charming shop with 30 years of history on Derry’s historic Shipquay Street.
Vine Living Home and Gift Shop
0.9 km
Discover unique gifts and artisan homewares blending Irish tradition and modern style in the heart of Londonderry.
The Sacred Tree
0.9 km
Discover unique artisan gifts and local craftsmanship at The Sacred Tree, nestled in Derry’s historic Craft Village.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Park Bar
0.3 km
A historic family-run pub in Londonderry renowned for its warm hospitality, excellent Guinness, and vibrant Irish cultural nights.
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.
The Phoenix Bar & Off License
0.4 km
A vibrant, welcoming pub in Londonderry offering lively music, affordable drinks, and authentic Irish hospitality from morning till late night.
Tinney's Bar & The Shirt Factory
0.6 km
Historic family-owned Irish pub in Londonderry famed for legendary Guinness, lively local atmosphere, and shirt factory heritage.
Jack's Bar
0.6 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 Trinity Bar
0.7 km
A lively Londonderry bar blending traditional Irish charm with unique decor, great drinks, and hearty local fare in a welcoming atmosphere.
Grand Central Bar
0.7 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
0.7 km
A vibrant and welcoming cocktail bar in Londonderry, famed for its lively karaoke nights, eclectic music, and expertly crafted drinks.
Dungloe Bar
0.8 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
0.8 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.
Masons Bar
0.8 km
Experience authentic local charm and warm hospitality at Masons Bar, a cozy and affordable retreat in the heart of Londonderry.
Celtic Bar
0.9 km
A friendly, affordable bar in the heart of Londonderry offering lively music and a welcoming atmosphere for locals and visitors.
Silver Street Derry
0.9 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
0.9 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
1.0 km
Experience authentic Irish hospitality and local craft beers in the cozy, lively heart of Londonderry at Porter's Bar.
Nightclubs & after hour spots
izudoo Derry Pub & Night Club Guide
0.3 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
0.8 km
Experience Londonderry’s vibrant nightlife at Fifty Seven Waterloo St, a chic nightclub pulsing with classic DJ beats and lively energy.
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.
Carrolls
18.2 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at Carrolls in Buncrana, Co. Donegal, where exceptional drinks and music create unforgettable memories.
XOX Strabane
21.2 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
22.0 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
26.0 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife at PULSE VENUE, Letterkenny's premier night club offering live music and unforgettable dance parties.
Fifth Avenue Letterkenny
26.2 km
Dive into the heart of Letterkenny's nightlife at Fifth Avenue, where vibrant music and lively dance floors create unforgettable moments.
Voodoo Venue
26.6 km
Experience the electric nightlife of Letterkenny at Voodoo Venue, where cocktails, live music, and vibrant energy await every visitor.
Halyon Club
27.9 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
28.1 km
Experience the vibrant nightlife of Co. Donegal at Tul Na Ri, where great music, dancing, and a friendly atmosphere await.
Empire Club
38.6 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
44.7 km
Discover the vibrant nightlife at The Vault Nightclub in Omagh, where music, dancing, and fun come together for an unforgettable experience.
Tiger Lillys
44.8 km
Omagh’s vibrant jungle-themed nightclub offering fresh cocktails and lively nights exclusively for the 18+ crowd.
The Legends Lounge
48.1 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
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Parks & Gardens
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Nature Escape
- Day Trip
- Family Friendly
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
