Overview
Green Lane Museum sits at the entrance to Roe Valley Country Park, just outside Limavady in County Londonderry. Housed in a modest building that blends with the surrounding woodland, the museum offers a curated collection of photographs, tools, and everyday objects that illustrate the valley’s agricultural and industrial past. Visitors step into a narrative that stretches from the height of the linen boom to the quieter days of 20th‑century farming, all presented in a setting that feels both intimate and welcoming.
History
The museum reopened its doors in early 2023 after a period of refurbishment, thanks largely to the generosity of the Roe Valley Ancestry Researchers – a volunteer group that dedicates countless hours to preserving local heritage. Their work ensures that the stories of the valley’s flax growers, weavers, and farmers are not lost to time. The building itself dates back to the 19th century and originally served as a workhouse before being repurposed as a community museum.
What to See & Do
Inside, the displays are arranged thematically. One section focuses on the linen industry, featuring original water‑wheel fragments, loom parts, and a series of black‑and‑white photographs that capture the rhythm of the mills along the River Roe. Another area delves into rural life, showcasing farming implements, domestic wares, lace and textile samples, reference books, and personal letters that reveal the day‑to‑day concerns of valley families. A notable highlight is the Limavady and District War Memorial, listing the names of those who served in the First and Second World Wars.
Beyond the indoor exhibits, the museum sits adjacent to a restored water wheel and the remnants of several historic water‑mills. These structures are visible from the museum’s windows and can be explored on the surrounding trail. The park’s specially designed wildlife trail includes an audio guide for blind and partially sighted visitors, allowing them to experience the sounds of the river, the calls of otters, and the rustle of mature woodland.
A short walk from the museum leads to the Dogleap Countryside Centre, where the on‑site café – AL’s Coffee – serves hot drinks and light snacks. The café is fully wheelchair‑accessible, and a mobility scooter is available for hire, making it easy for visitors with limited mobility to explore the wider park.
Events & Exhibitions
The museum hosts temporary exhibitions and craft demonstrations throughout the season, often showcasing local textile artists or traditional farming techniques. Schools, colleges and community groups can arrange a ‘Walk & Talk’ tour, where a member of the Roe Valley Ancestry Researchers guides visitors around the collection outside normal opening hours. Keep an eye on the museum’s Facebook page for upcoming Special Events such as heritage days, storytelling sessions, and seasonal workshops.
Practical Information
Opening hours
| Season | Days | Times |
|---|---|---|
| April – May | Saturday & Sunday | 11:00 – 16:00 |
| June – September | To be confirmed | – |
| October – February | Closed | – |
Admission is free; donations to the volunteer team are welcomed.
Contact
- Main contact (group visits & tours): Betty – 078 501 36707
- General enquiries: 028 7776 0650
- Email: information@rvacc.co.uk
- Facebook: Causeway Coast and Glens Museum Services
- Instagram: ccg_museum_services
Getting there The museum is accessed via the main car park at the Countryside Centre on Dogleap Road. Parking is free and there are three additional free car parks within the park (O’Cahan’s, Carrick Mills, and Carrick Rocks). An electric‑vehicle charging point is available in the main car park, and an outdoor drinking water tap is located near the toilet facilities.
Accessibility The majority of the walking routes are on firm, level surfaces. A flight of steps at the midway footbridge may pose a challenge; however, the trail can be enjoyed as an out‑and‑back walk that avoids the steps. Disabled toilets are provided, and the café’s wheelchair‑accessible layout ensures a comfortable break for all visitors. A mobility scooter can be borrowed from the Dogleap Countryside Centre.
Nearby Attractions
While you’re in the Roe Valley Country Park, consider exploring the restored water‑wheel, the historic water‑mills, and the Dogleap Countryside Centre with its café and visitor facilities. The park also offers fishing spots on the River Roe, marked walking routes, and picnic areas, making it an ideal base for a family day out.
For the latest updates, follow the museum’s social media channels or contact the centre directly.