Discovering Myroe
Myroe is a quiet farming settlement on the eastern shore of Lough Foyle, just north of Limavady in County Londonderry. The landscape here tells a clear story of transformation: what was once tidal marshland was systematically drained in the late 18th century, creating a flat, fertile plain that stretches towards the water. Today, the hamlet serves as a peaceful stop for walkers, birdwatchers, and those interested in the region’s rural history. The area is best explored at a leisurely pace, with the Lough Foyle Trail running straight through the village and the 19th-century Presbyterian church standing as a central landmark.
Myroe Presbyterian Church
Built in 1832, Myroe Presbyterian Church remains one of the best-preserved examples of early Georgian rural architecture in the area. The stone building features a symmetrical rendered façade, a six-by-three bay layout, and distinctive round-headed windows that frame the interior. Step inside, and you will find original box pews arranged around a central pulpit, which is supported by double-step cast-iron balusters. Three rectangular gallery windows preserve the atmosphere of 19th-century worship, while the simple stone construction reflects the practical, community-driven ethos of the era.
The church has long functioned as the social and spiritual hub of the hamlet, hosting everything from Sunday services and Women’s Institute meetings to seasonal carol services. Behind the building lies a quiet cemetery that records generations of local families. The headstones offer a tangible connection to the early settlers who first reclaimed the surrounding marshes, making it a reflective spot for visitors interested in local history and burial customs.
Walking the Lough Foyle Trail
For a straightforward and scenic walk, the Lough Foyle Trail is an excellent choice. This eight-kilometre route follows a raised sea wall from Ballykelly to the Roe Estuary and passes directly through Myroe via the Shore Avenue entry point. The path is completely flat and well-maintained, making it accessible for families with young children, casual strollers, and those using wheelchairs or pushchairs.
The trail offers uninterrupted views across the water and the surrounding wetlands, including the famous horseshoe bends of the estuary. Bird hides are positioned along the route, providing sheltered vantage points to observe the water without disturbing the wildlife. On clear days, the walk delivers open coastal vistas that highlight the unique geography of the Foyle basin, and dogs are welcome on leads.
Birdwatching on the Myroe Levels
The reclaimed marshland, locally known as the Myroe Levels or Intake, is a designated wildlife haven. The network of drainage ditches, shallow pools, and grassy fields creates an ideal habitat for a wide variety of bird species. Autumn and winter bring the highest numbers of visitors, with regular sightings of Whooper swans, Brent geese, Golden Plover, Curlew, and Ringed Plover.
More discerning birdwatchers may spot rarer arrivals such as the Little Stint or Buff-breasted Sandpiper, particularly during migration seasons. The ditches and pools also attract waders and waterbirds including Redshank, Greenshank, Black-tailed Godwit, Little Egret, and several species of grebe. A pair of binoculars and a local bird guide will greatly enhance the experience here, especially during the early morning hours when the birds are most active.
Farming Heritage & The Londonderry Air
Agriculture defines the character of Myroe. The open fields are frequently planted with rapeseed, turning the landscape into a vivid yellow canopy each spring. The hamlet’s farming credentials were put on the global stage when it hosted the 1991 World Ploughing Contest, drawing competitors and spectators from across Europe to witness the region’s agricultural skill.
Beyond the fields, Myroe holds a special place in Irish musical folklore. Local tradition credits the hamlet as the birthplace of The Londonderry Air, one of Ireland’s most beloved melodies. The tune was reportedly first noted by Jane Ross after hearing blind local fiddler Jimmy McCurry play it, cementing the village’s connection to the region’s rich musical heritage. Family history researchers also frequently visit the area, as the church’s historic registers document baptisms, marriages, and burials dating back to the 18th century, preserving surnames that reflect the Scottish and English roots of the original settlers.
Planning Your Visit
- Getting there: Myroe is located on the A2 coastal road, approximately five kilometres north of Limavady. The church and main trail entry points are easily accessible by car.
- Parking: Free parking is available beside the churchyard and at the Shore Avenue trailhead.
- Facilities: There are no shops or cafés in the hamlet itself. Visitors should bring water, snacks, and appropriate footwear for coastal walking.
- Best time to go: Autumn and winter offer the best birdwatching conditions, while spring brings wildflowers to the Levels and rapeseed to the fields. Summer provides longer daylight hours for the coastal trail.
- Nearby stops: The Roe Estuary Nature Reserve, the historic town of Limavady, and the coastal walks at Ballykelly are all within a short drive.
A visit to Myroe rewards those willing to slow down and appreciate the quiet rhythms of coastal rural life. Arrive early in the morning to catch the wildlife at its most active, and allow plenty of time to wander the flat, traffic-free trail along the water’s edge before heading back to the A2.