The best walks and hikes in Ness And Ervy Wood National Nature Reserve

Yes, the reserve is great for families. There is a dedicated, wheelchair-accessible Meadow Route on a flat asphalt surface. For a slightly longer but still easy walk, consider the Ness Country Park loop from Claudy, which is just over 2 miles (3.6 km). The park also features a natural-themed play park for children.

Dogs are generally welcome in Ness Country Park, but they must be kept on a lead at all times. This is especially important as the area is a National Nature Reserve with sensitive wildlife, including red squirrels and otters, and is also an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI).

To see the Ness Waterfall, one of the highest in Northern Ireland, you can follow the waymarked Waterfall Route within the park. This trail is more challenging, involving steep sections and steps. For a comprehensive hike that includes this feature, the Waterfall – Woven Mushroom Sculptures loop from Claudy is a great option.

Ness Country Park is well-equipped with several car parks, making access straightforward. There is also a visitor centre on-site which provides toilet facilities and an exhibition on the local woodland biodiversity.

The reserve specializes in circular walks. Many trails are designed as loops, taking you through the woodlands and along the Burntollet River before returning to your starting point. The Ness Country Park – Wooden Bridge in Forest loop from Claudy is a rewarding moderate circular hike of about 5.2 miles (8.4 km).

The reserve is a rich habitat for a variety of wildlife. You might spot red squirrels in the ancient oak woodlands, and otters or badgers near the Burntollet River. The area is also excellent for birdwatching, with warblers present in summer. The woodland floor is known for its beautiful displays of bluebells in the spring.

There are over 10 designated hiking routes available on komoot, covering more than 7 kilometers of woodland and riverside paths within the park itself. These range from easy, accessible walks to more moderate hikes with steep sections, ensuring options for various fitness levels.

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars. Hikers often praise the beautiful ancient woodlands, the well-maintained paths with wooden steps and bridges, and the dramatic scenery of the river glen and its waterfalls.

The terrain is varied. You'll find everything from flat, paved paths in the meadow area to steep, wooded trails with steps in the glen. Most routes involve a mix of gravel paths and woodland tracks, with some moderate inclines as you walk along the gorge carved by the Burntollet River.

Yes, for those seeking a more strenuous hike, the Loughermore – Loughermore Forest loop from Gortnahey offers a significant challenge. This 7-mile (11.3 km) route involves a substantial amount of climbing and rewards hikers with expansive views from the summit.

While specific times can vary seasonally, UK country parks like this are typically open from dawn until dusk. The visitor centre and its facilities will have more restricted hours. It's always a good idea to check local signage upon arrival for the most current information.