Visit Roe Valley Country Park is situated in an area steeped in history and natural beauty. Throughout the park you can see remnants of the industry that once thrived here and enjoy the natural beauty of the River Roe and the surrounding woodlands. Inside the visitor centre you can visit the exhibition to learn more about the life and legends surrounding the area and the fragility and beauty of the plants and animals that depend on this type of habitat for survival.
Leap of the Dog
Limavady derives its name from the Irish ‘Léim a’ Mhadaidh’ meaning Leap of the Dog. Based on the story of a legendary leap over the River Roe which saved the O’Cahan Castle from enemy ambush.
O’Cahans’ Castle
The original site of the O’Cahans’ Castle was located in the Roe Valley Country Park. From here the O’Cahan clan ruled the Limavady lands until the 17th Century.
Roe Valley Country Park Facilities
Free Parking and eCar charging points
There are 4 car parks available at Roe Valley Country Park:
- Main car park at Visitor Centre (access via Dogleap Road)
- O’Cahan’s car park (access via Roemill Road)
- Carrick Mills car park (access via Ballyquin Road)
- Carrick Rocks car park (access via Drumrane Road)
Car parks available every day 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (except for Christmas Day, Boxing Day and New Years Day).
Visitors Centre and Museum
Visitors can learn about the industrial and natural heritage of the area in the museum and countryside centre. The remains of buildings used in the linen industry and a restored water wheel can also be seen and much of the original equipment is preserved including ruined water mills used in linen production.
Café and Picnic Areas
Ritters Tea Room, located beside the Dogleap Visitors Centre, opens daily. You can contact Ritters Tea Room on +442877722020
Roe Valley Country Park also has plenty of seating areas to accommodate your picnic needs.
Toilets
Public toilet facilities are available in the Dogleap Visitor Centre.Opening Times:
1st April to 30th May 9.00 – 19.00
1st June to 16th September 9.00 – 21.00
17th September to 31st March 9.00 – 16.30
Accessibility
The following facilities are available for users with limited mobility:
- Disabled toilets
- Disabled parking
- Disabled angler’s jetty
- Wheelchair available
- Mobility scooter available
- Hearing loop system
- Audio guide
Open Spaces
The park offers plenty of open space for your dogs to exercise and play in. Dogs are allowed and should be kept under control at all time. Please clean up after your dog.
Walking at Roe Valley Country Park
Roe Valley Country Park offers a variety of routes along the riverside and through woodland.
There is also a Sensory Trail particularly designed for the visually impaired.
River Roe
The ‘Red River’
The River Roe can change its mood almost in an instant. One moment it is calm and clear – the next it is a raging, dark, red-brown torrent.
The cause of this changing colour and character has its origins high up in the Sperrin Mountains where the river begins its journey.
The River Roe flows for 34 miles, from its origin in the Sperrin Mountains, down to the shores of Lough Foyle.
From saints to salmon, the powerful and pure waters of the Roe have sustained and inspired generations of people and created a valuable haven for wildlife.
Fishing
The river provides opportunities for salmon and trout fishing. A disabled angler’s jetty is located near the visitors centre.
What else will you find?
What people say
Nice circular walk along the beautiful river. Various bridges enable you to tailor the length of walk according to energy levels. Very good facilities at the main car park. Highly recommended stroll. Although, can be muddy in parts after heavy rain. Bring your boots it’s well worth it! Richard Gosnold
Love this place, beautiful no matter what the weather! I walk my dogs here every weekend and they love it as much as I do! Nicola Parkhill
Roe Valley Country Park
Address
41 Dogleap Road, Limavady, County Londonderry, BT49 9NN
Telephone: +442877721925
