Nestled in the south of County Londonderry, Magherafelt is a laid-back base for discovering everything the region has to offer. It is believed to have been established as a monastic settlement before developing into a town in the 15th century. Magherafelt lies on the doorstep of Lough Neagh and the Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, as well as being an easy day trip from bustling Derry.
Read on to discover some of the top things to see and do around Magherafelt, all of which are within an easy day’s drive. If you are looking for accommodation in this area, check this useful reference for a range of accommodation choices both in the town and the scenic surroundings of County Londonderry. Options range from private apartments for couples to charming cottages with room for the entire family. From your Magherafelt base, you can easily day trip to the Antrim Coast and the Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty or get your cultural fix in Derry.
Sperrin Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty
Designated in 2008, this Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty extends from the Strule Valley to the lowlands of Lough Neagh, taking in sweeping moorlands, narrow glens and sparkling lakes. It is rich in local folklore and archaeological heritage as home to the aligned upright stones of Goles Stone Row. Embark on one of the four signposted scenic driving routes that traverse the Sperrins, accessing some of its most impressive viewpoints, picturesque villages and marked hiking trails.
Antrim Coast
Stretching between Larne and Ballycastle, this coastal Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty takes in some of most beautiful scenery of County Londonderry. Admire the romantic ruins of Dunluce Castle, which perches atop a rocky headland and includes artistic plaques illustrating how the castle would have looked 400 years ago. You can join a guided tour to see where Irish whiskey has been made since the 13th century at the Old Bushmills Distillery before witnessing the hexagonal basalt columns of the Giant’s Causeway. If time allows, don’t miss the Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge, which connects to an offshore sea stack once used by fishermen.
Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne
Encompassing the 18th-century mansion ruins of Earl Bishop, this National Trust-managed property overlooks the north coast of County Londonderry. It features beautiful gardens, an arboretum and a mausoleum, as well as a clifftop temple inspired by Italy’s Temple of Vesta that once housed the bishop’s library. You can learn about life in 17th-century rural Ireland at Hezlett House before exploring one of the spectacular walking trails that traverse the surrounding heathland, accompanied by splendid views across the North Atlantic Ocean.
Roe Valley Country Park
Surrounding the River Roe, this large, forested area is a popular spot for swimming in the summer months, as well as fishing for salmon and brown trout. Begin your visit at the Green Lane Museum to learn about life here in times gone by and the impact of the local linen industry. Then set out to explore the remains of watch towers and an old water wheel on the edge of the flax-drying fields. Also within Roe Valley Country Park are the remains of Northern Ireland’s first hydroelectricity station, which began operations in 1896.
Wellbrook Beetling Mill
Nestled in a tranquil glen on the Ballinderry River, this fully restored, water-powered mill brings to life Londonderry’s linen manufacturing industry of the past. Linen beetling is the final step in the manufacturing process and involves the cloth being pounded by wooden hammers known as “beetles” to tighten the weave. Since the mid-19th century, river water was used to turn the wheel and power the cogs that drove the “beetles” down. Join a guided tour to see this unique piece of history in action before enjoying a stroll through its idyllic woodlands.
Derry
Northern Ireland’s second-largest city sits on the banks of the River Foyle, surrounded by 17th-century walls. At the heart is the quaint Craft Village with its Georgian houses, artisan craft stores and wrought-iron footbridges. Marvel at the Neo-Gothic and Tudor Revival architecture of the magnificent Guildhall and the soaring spire of St Columb’s Cathedral, which houses artefacts from the siege of 1689. To learn more about the Williamite War, head to the engaging Siege Museum or delve into the local history at the Tower Museum. In the Bogside neighbourhood of County Londonderry, you’ll find impressive murals reflecting Northern Ireland’s troubled past, together with the historic Free Derry Corner.
Springhill
Surrounded by a walled garden, this 17th-century plantation house has been managed by the National Trust since 1957. It was previously home to 10 generations of the Lenox-Conyngham family and is decorated with furnishings, artworks and décor they collected over the past three centuries. Admire the 1720s Chinese wallpaper in the Gun Room and the impressive costume collection in the Old Laundry, with excellent examples of fashions dating from the 18th to 20th centuries. Be sure to allow enough time to meander along one of the marked paths that extend through the surrounding parkland.
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