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The early Irish kings of the area around Limavady were the O'Cahans, and like most Irish kings they constantly warred with their neighbours. Once on the occasion of a surprise attack help was needed, and a dog of the king's leapt the river from what is now called O'Cahan's rock to carry word to neighbouring clans. From this comes the name of the city, Leim an Mhadaidh, which is Gaelic for "the dog's leap."
Limavady's population has done some leaping of its own in recent years. It came near to doubling in the last thirty years of the twentieth century. Because of the town's proximity both to Benevenagh and to the scenic Roe Valley, Limavady has always been a recreational centre, but new industrial development is the spark behind the extreme growth.
Danny Boy
It was in Limavady that folklorist Jane Ross transcribed a tune from a local fiddler, a tune that had come down from the bard Rory Dall O'Cahan. The tune was initially called "O'Cahan's Lament," but it is now known as the "Air from County Derry" or the "Londonderry Air" and has become a tradition in the Irish Diaspora when sung with the words "Danny Boy." There is a plaque out side Ross's home in Limavady, and the town commemorates the event with its Danny Boy Festival.
Attractions
The River Roe has a large cachement, but only a very narrow channel. About three miles of its course is contained within Roe Valley Country Park. Here, after any heavy rain the the force of the flood can be quite impressive. At any time the walks in the park are rewarding.
Near the park's Visitors' Centre is the Green Lane Museum with exhibits on the linen industry and the area's history. Fishing on the Roe is allowed with a permit, but boats and kayaks are officially banned, as is climbing on the rocks. O'Cahan's Rock from which the bold dog made its desperate leap is found within the park.
The Roe Park Resort lies on the A2 only one mile outside Limavady. Its 18 hole golf course, floodlit putting green and driving ranges and indoor video coaching area provide golfers with a first class getaways in the environment of a riverfront estate. Limavady also makes a great headquarters for golfers playing the famous courses of Ireland's northern coast. Castlerock Golf Club, the Royal Portrush Golf Club and Portstewart Golf Club all lie within easy distance of the town.
The steep cliffs of Benevenagh, the mountain above the town, provide a great platform for gliding as well as hang-gliding. An artificial lake at the top offers fishing, and rock climbing is also a popular option.
Benone Beach is one of the longest on the north coast of Ireland, and one of the most beautiful. Flying a kite on the beach can be a fascinating experience, and kiteboarding and kitesurfing are also available. Unfortunately the beach is open to motorized traffic and frequently used for informal races, making it unsafe for all but the most careful pedestrians.
Access and Amenities
Limavady is only 15 kilometres from the City of Derry Airport, which has a limited schedule of commercial flights to destinations in the UK and Europe. The town no longer has rail links, the nearest station being 5 kilometres away in Bellarena. Limavady lies on the A2 from Derry, and the A6 which runs nearby joins the M2 to Belfast. Country hotels, guesthouses and B&Bs offer lodging, as does the golf resort. Meals are basic but adequate, and night life is confined to a few pubs.
Accommodation in Limavady
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