Limavady is a market town in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland.
Limavady is a picturesque town in the Roe Valley, strategically positioned near the River Roe, which meanders through the lush landscapes. Binevenagh, a large, steep-sided hill, overlooks the town.
Limavady is surrounded by several localities, including Ballykelly to the northwest, Dungiven to the south, and Greysteel to the north. Derry is about 17 miles to the west, while Coleraine is 14 miles northeast. Its positioning makes it a hub for exploring the broader region of Northern Ireland.
Evidence of early habitation of the area has been found in the form of Neolithic artifacts and Bronze Age structures.
Its name is derived from the Irish Leim an Mhadaidh, meaning "Leap of the Dog," a reference to a local legend involving a dog leaping across the River Roe to deliver a message.
Limavady sprang up within the townland of Rathbrady Beg in the parish of Drumachose, and was initially known as Newtown Limavady. Over time, the urban area expanded into the surrounding townlands, including Bovally, Coolessan, Enagh, Killane, Rathbrady Beg, and Rathbrady More.
During the medieval era, Limavady was part of the Gaelic territory of the O'Cahans, a powerful clan that ruled the area. The O'Cahan's stronghold, Dungiven Castle, still stands. The town's strategic location made it a focal point during various historical conflicts, including the Nine Years' War and the Plantation of Ulster in the early 17th century, bringing significant changes to the region's demographics.
Like many Northern Irish communities, Limavady's early economy was primarily agrarian, with farming and livestock forming the backbone. The fertile lands of the Roe Valley were perfect for agriculture, and the town became known for its production of flax, essential to the linen industry. The growth of market fairs and trade further supported the local economy.
Today, Limavady has diversified its economic base. Agriculture remains important, but the town has embraced other economic sectors, including manufacturing and tourism. The Roe Valley Country Park, the Limavady Workhouse Museum, and the annual Danny Boy Festival draw visitors to the town.
Jane Ross, who first transcribed "Londonderry Air," was born and lived in Limavady. The tune was later used for the song "Danny Boy."
Businesses, industries, schools, places of worship, museums, historical places, art galleries, entertainment venues, attractions, events, and sports and recreational facilities and programmes in Limavady are the focus of this part of our guide.
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Connolly Cove is a travel and culture blog that showcases destinations across Ireland, Northern Ireland, and beyond. It offers travel guides and videos to help visitors explore unique attractions, historical landmarks, and natural wonders. Its page on Limavady highlights Roe Valley Country Park, Dungiven Castle, and the Limavady Sculpture Trail. It also features legends about Limavady, including Finvola, Cushy Glen, Manannan Mac Lir, and Lig-Na-Paiste, and the Danny Boy legend.
https://www.connollycove.com/limavady/
The family-run equestrian centre is on the Causeway Coastal Route in Limavady, Northern Ireland. The business offers horse riding lessons for people of all ages and abilities, scenic treks, beach rides, and other experiences, such as pony grooming and themed adventure days. Crindle Stables is known for their professional showjumping, livery, and competition yard, all set on a working farm and stud. Private experience sessions and group activities may also be available.
https://www.crindlestables.com/
The independent driving school is based in Limavady, Northern Ireland. It offers a variety of driving lessons, including car driving, trailer training, and LGV courses. LCD's instructors are fully qualified and security-checked. They provide one-on-one training tailored to individual needs, with an emphasis on safe and confident driving. Students can expect to have the same instructor and the same car at all times, along with structured and planned lessons.
https://www.lcddrivingacademy.com/
Limavady Travel is an award-winning travel agency based in Limavady, Northern Ireland. In 2019 and 2022, it was recognized as the Travel Agent of the Year. It offers carefully planned and affordable holidays to worldwide destinations, including cruises, long-haul trips, European holidays, and others. A profile of the agency is provided, along with holiday packages to various destinations, and a guide to preparing for a trip, such as passports, travel insurance, and health concerns.
https://www.limavadytravel.co.uk/
The family-owned artisan flower shop is on Market Street in Limavady, Northern Ireland. The florist offers a variety of bouquets for collection or delivery within a ten-mile radius of its shop. Shoppers may view its catalog, including bouquets, vases, funeral and sympathy flowers, sprays, posies, and wreaths; prices are included. Customers with particular requirements are invited to reach out to the business by telephone or email. An online contact form is also available.
https://www.marshallhoweflorist.com/
Newline Elite Cars specializes in importing and selling a wide range of vehicles, including cars, motorhomes, caravans, motorcycles, commercial vehicles, and Revvi Bikies, electric balance bikes for kids. The family-run business is located on Aghanloo Industrial Estate, Aghanloo Road, in Limavady, Northern Ireland. Its inventory may be viewed on its website, which includes sales and servicing, MOT preparation, vehicle sourcing, finance options, a VRT calculator, and contacts.
https://www.newlineelitecars.com/
The Steinbeck Festival is an annual celebration of the life and works of John Steinbeck, the Nobel Prize-winning author known for classics like "The Grapes of Wrath" and "Of Mice and Men." One notable festival occurs in Limavady, Northern Ireland, where Steinbeck's maternal grandfather, Samuel Hamilton, was born. The event highlights Steinbeck's Irish roots and connections to the area. The festival features a variety of activities, including music, storytelling, art exhibitions, and discussions.
https://steinbeckfestival.com/
