Davagh Forest

What You'll Find

Davagh Forest is a brilliant spot for a family day out, tucked away in the heart of the beautiful Sperrin Mountains. From woodland walks and bike trails to playgrounds and even stargazing, there's so much here for little adventurers to enjoy!

We loved the play park here!

It's fully enclosed and has a brilliant mix of equipment, including slides, swings, climbing mounds, tunnels, stepping pods and a basket swing. The rubber safety flooring is another bonus, especially for younger children.

Once the kids have finished playing, there are plenty of woodland trails to explore.

We followed the black walking trail, which was a lovely length for wee legs. It takes you past the river and through the woodland, with plenty of opportunities to stop and discover little things along the way.

We loved collecting nature treasures and playing Pooh sticks at the bridge. Sometimes it's the simplest things that keep the kids entertained the longest!

And if your wee ones love anything with wheels, Davagh is a brilliant place to bring the bikes!

There are mountain-bike trails graded for different abilities, from easier routes to more challenging trails for experienced riders.

There's also a pump track, which is a fantastic addition for children who love cycling. Whether they're just learning to tackle the bumps or already flying around with confidence, it's a great place to practise their skills.

But there's something else that makes Davagh really special!

It's home to OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory, one of Northern Ireland's most exciting places to discover the night sky.

Even during the day, the Dark Sky Park is an interesting place to explore, but if you get the chance to visit for an evening stargazing experience, it's something really special.

Away from the bright city lights, the skies here can be absolutely incredible!

The Observatory also offers experiences where families can learn about stars, planets and the wonders of space. You'll find toilets, tea and coffee facilities and snacks at the centre too, which is always handy when visiting with the kids.

And don't forget to look out for the Giant of the Sperrins!

This impressive sculpture is part of the Giants of the Sperrins trail, inspired by local myths and legends. It's such a cool feature to discover in the forest, especially for children who love stories and a bit of imagination.

With a brilliant playground, beautiful woodland walks, cycling trails, a pump track and the Dark Sky Observatory, Davagh Forest is definitely one to add to your Wee Adventurers list!

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Exploring the enclosed playground with its slides, swings, tunnels and climbing mounds
• ✓Following the short black walking trail and playing Pooh sticks at the bridge
• ✓Bringing their bikes to try the pump track and suitable cycling trails
• ✓Discovering the Giant of the Sperrins sculpture hidden in the forest
• ✓Learning about stars and planets at OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory

Before You Visit

The forest has different walking and cycling routes, so make sure you follow the correct trail signs. Some mountain-bike trails are technical and suitable only for experienced riders.

We found the black walking trail a lovely length for younger children, with plenty of little stops along the way.

If you're bringing bikes for the pump track, don't forget helmets and suitable protective gear.

Woodland paths can be muddy after wet weather, so bring sturdy shoes and a change of clothes if needed.

The Observatory offers bookable experiences, so check what's available before visiting, especially if you're hoping to go stargazing in the evening.

Keep younger children close around the river and bridge.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐Start with the playground! It's a brilliant enclosed space with lots of different equipment for younger children.
• ⭐We loved the short black walking trail. Don't forget to stop at the bridge for a game of Pooh sticks!
• ⭐Bring the bikes if your kids enjoy cycling. The pump track is a brilliant extra, and there are trails for different abilities.
• ⭐Make sure to find the Giant of the Sperrins sculpture. It's a lovely little discovery to add to your woodland walk.
• ⭐If you get the chance, book an evening experience at OM Dark Sky Observatory. Seeing the stars away from the city lights is something really special!