Overview
Limavady is a market town in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland, set against the dramatic backdrop of Binevenagh and the scenic Roe Valley. With a population of about 11,300, it blends Celtic roots, Plantation history and a vibrant cultural calendar, making it a rewarding base for exploring the Causeway Coast and Glens.
History
The name Limavady derives from the Irish Leim an Mhadaidh – “leap of the dog”, linked to a local legend about a dog leaping across the River Roe. Archaeological evidence points to settlement as early as 5 CE, and the area was later dominated by the O’Cahan clan. In 1610 Sir Thomas Phillips received a charter to develop a new town, laying out a cruciform street pattern that still shapes the centre. The town’s early economy featured linen weaving and a licence to distil whiskey in 1608; the Limavady Distillery was founded on the River Roe in 1750. Notable 20th‑century events include the 1941 RAF Limavady air base and the 1987 arrival of Richard Branson’s historic trans‑Atlantic hot‑air‑balloon crossing.
What to See & Do
Roe Valley Country Park
Just southwest of the town, Roe Valley Country Park offers riverside walks, salmon and trout fishing, canoeing, rock‑climbing and an extensive network of trails. Highlights include:
- The Green Lane Museum, displaying 19th‑ and 20th‑century artefacts of the linen industry and rural life.
- A restored water‑wheel and the remains of historic mills.
- A disabled angler’s jetty and an audio guide for blind and partially‑sighted visitors.
- The wheelchair‑accessible café “AL’s Coffee”, which also provides a mobility scooter.
The main circular walk is 3.6 km, following the River Roe from the visitor centre, crossing a footbridge at the halfway point. For those with limited mobility, the route can be enjoyed as an out‑and‑back along the same path.
Crindle Stables
Located on the Causeway Coastal Route at Myroe, Crindle Stables is a family‑run equestrian centre offering riding lessons, show‑jumping, forest rides and themed pony‑adventure days. Prices start from £40 for an adventure ride, with special beach rides to Benone and Downhill during St Patrick’s Day and Easter. The facility provides on‑site parking and accepts all major credit cards.
Cultural Highlights
- Jane Ross House on Main Street, where Ross collected the tune that became “Londonderry Air” and later “Danny Boy”.
- The birthplace of William Massey, New Zealand’s 19th‑century prime minister, on Irish Green Street.
- Annual events such as the Danny Boy Jazz and Blues Festival, Roe Valley Folk Festival, Stendhal Festival of Art, and the NI Super Cup.
Nearby Natural Attractions
- Binevenagh Nature Reserve (≈2 km north) – basalt cliffs with panoramic views over Lough Foyle and County Donegal.
- Benone Strand – a 9‑km golden beach ideal for walking, kite‑surfing and, in summer, horse rides from Crindle Stables.
- Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne – short drives away, offering dramatic cliff‑top scenery.
Practical Information
Getting Here
Limavady lies 9 mi (15 km) east of City of Derry Airport and 13 mi (22 km) west of the Port of Londonderry. By road, the A2 bypass (opened 2003) speeds travel between Derry and Coleraine. The nearest railway station is Bellarena, about 5 mi north, with regular services to Derry and Belfast. Ulsterbus routes 143/144/152 connect Limavady with Derry, Coleraine and Belfast; the commuter bus 246 links the town with Eglinton Airport.
Parking & Access
- Roe Valley Country Park provides free parking at four sites (Main, O’Cahan’s, Carrick Mills, Carrick Rocks). An electric‑vehicle charging point is available in the main car park.
- The park’s main car park opens 8:00 am–4:00 pm (Oct–Feb), 9:00 am–5:00 pm (Mar & Sep), 9:00 am–9:00 pm (4 Apr–Aug). These times are subject to review.
- Wheelchair‑accessible paths dominate the route; the only obstacle is a set of steps at the mid‑point footbridge, for which an alternative linear walk is provided.
Opening Hours & Fees
| Attraction | Opening Hours | Admission |
|---|---|---|
| Roe Valley Country Park | Mon‑Sun 08:00‑17:00 (seasonal times see below) | Free |
| Green Lane Museum (within the park) | Same as park | Free |
| Crindle Stables | By appointment – contact for availability | Varies (see website) |
Seasonal park hours
| Period | Opening – Closing |
|---|---|
| Oct – End Feb | 08:00 – 16:00 |
| March | 09:00 – 17:00 |
| 4 Apr – End Aug | 09:00 – 21:00 |
| September | 09:00 – 17:00 |
Contact & Online Resources
- Roe Valley Country Park – website: https://discovernorthernireland.com/listing/roe-valley-country-park/67564101/
- Crindle Stables – website: https://www.crindlestables.com/ (booking and activity details)
- Limavady Town Council information can be found via the Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council website.
Accessibility Summary
The park offers wheelchair‑friendly trails, accessible toilets, a disabled angler’s jetty and an audio guide for visually impaired visitors. Crindle Stables provides adapted pony‑pals sessions for children with special needs and can arrange bespoke experiences on request.
With its blend of natural beauty, historic sites and active outdoor pursuits, Limavady serves as an ideal gateway to the Causeway Coast while offering plenty to explore in its own right.