Overview
Errigal Old Church lies in a narrow, wooded valley known as Errigal Glen, just a few kilometres north‑west of the market town of Garvagh. The ruin is set on the left‑hand side of the trail as walkers turn onto Ballyrogan Road, overlooking the steep‑sided glen and the rapid Agivey River below. Though the stone walls are now reduced to the east and west gables, the site retains a powerful sense of place, framed by ancient trees and the echo of centuries‑old worship.
The church is most easily visited as part of the Errigal Glen Trail, a 2.5‑mile (4 km) circular walk that combines woodland paths, low‑grade forest roads and open hillside. The trail is way‑marked with green markers and begins and ends at the historic Errigal Bridge on Temple Road.
History
Local tradition attributes the foundation of the church to St Adhamhnan around 560 AD. It served a modest rural congregation for many centuries, surviving several attacks and rebuilds. The presence of a souterrain – an underground stone‑lined passage typical of early Christian sites – indicates that the community used the space for both worship and the safe storage of valuables during periods of unrest.
Historical records note that the church was finally destroyed in the aftermath of the 1641 Rebellion, after which it fell into ruin and its stones were gradually reclaimed by the surrounding glen. In 1935 the souterrain was excavated, revealing a network of chambers and passages, a sharpening stone and a wooden club – artefacts that hint at its use as a refuge.
What to See & Do
- The Ruins – Walk up to the east and west gables and imagine the original shape of the building. The stonework, though weathered, showcases the simple, robust craftsmanship of early Irish ecclesiastical architecture.
- River Views – The Agivey River rushes through the glen, providing dramatic water‑colour scenery. Look downstream for natural pools and the occasional sight of otters or kingfishers.
- Flora & Fauna – The glen’s mixed woodland is home to bluebells in spring, hazel and oak in summer, and a carpet of heather on the higher slopes. Birdwatchers may spot sparrowhawks or the occasional buzzard.
- Neighbouring Points of Interest – Continue along the trail to see the Gortnamoyagh Inauguration Stone (known locally as the Saint’s Track or Shane’s Leap) and the medieval graveyard at Errigal Truagh, a short detour that showcases intricately carved 18th‑century headstones.
The Souterrain – a hidden refuge
A short distance from the church lies the entrance to the souterrain, a low, stone‑lined underground passage. While the interior is not open to the public for safety reasons, the entrance can be viewed from the trail. The 1935 excavation uncovered several chambers, a sharpening stone and a wooden club, suggesting the space was used as a temporary hide‑out during raids or as a secure store for valuable objects.
Practical Information
- Length & Difficulty – The Errigal Glen Trail is a moderate circular walk of approximately 2.5 miles (4 km). Expect short, steep climbs and uneven surfaces with exposed roots, narrow gates and a few steps.
- Parking – A small lay‑by with limited parking for cars and bicycles is available at Errigal Bridge on Temple Road, the trailhead.
- Way‑marking – The route is marked with green way‑markers; the trail is also part of the North Sperrins Heritage Trail and links to the Bann Valley and Eagle’s Glen cycle routes for those on bicycles.
- Dog policy – Dogs must be kept under close control throughout the route, especially near the souterrain entrance and the riverbanks.
- Facilities – Refreshments and public toilets are available in Garvagh, roughly three miles from the trailhead. There are no dedicated facilities at the church site itself.
- Public transport – The nearest bus service is operated by Translink; journey planning can be done via the Translink journey planner. The Garvagh bus stop lies a short walk from the trail’s start point.
- Access – The path is suitable for walkers of reasonable fitness; the terrain includes uneven ground, occasional steep sections and a few short steps. No wheelchair access is available to the church ruins or the souterrain.
- Seasonal notes – The trail is open year‑round. Early mornings can be misty, adding atmosphere to the ruins. Autumn brings colourful foliage, making the walk especially photogenic.
- Safety – Stay on the way‑marked track, especially where the glen narrows. The river can be swift after heavy rain, so avoid crossing at unmarked points.
Nearby attractions
- Garvagh Museum – Located in the walled garden of Garvagh House, the museum houses artefacts spanning from 3 000 BC to the 20th century, providing deeper context for the area’s history.
- Garvagh Pyramid – A 19th‑century Egyptian‑style pyramid erected by Lord Garvagh, situated in Garvagh Forest and visible from the trail’s vicinity.
- Garvagh Forest – Over 200 ha of mixed conifer and broad‑leaf woodland with a network of public paths, ideal for additional walks or a picnic after visiting the church.
- Gortnamoyagh Inauguration Stone – A stone bearing ancient footprints, used in chieftain inauguration ceremonies up to the 16th century, located a short detour from the trail.
For a complete overview of the route, see the official WalkNI page linked above. Whether you are a history enthusiast, a keen photographer, or simply a lover of tranquil woodland walks, Errigal Old Church provides a poignant stop on a trail that beautifully blends natural splendor with the echoes of ancient devotion.