roe valley country park

The Roe Valley Country Park is the ideal place to begin exploring the north-west area and its nature reserves. Set amidst the wooded banks of the river Roe where it winds its way down to the sea, the Park is rich in wildlife. In springtime the wood-land floor is covered with a colourful carpet of wild flowers. The autumn is an equally stunning time. Foxes, otters, badgers and many woodland birds abound. The area is rich in legends concerning the O'Cahans, who ruled the Roe Valley for centuries. In the more recent past, the valley echoed to the sound of gushing mill races, clattering water wheels and the rhythm of linen making machinery, some of which is displayed in a restored weaving shed, along with other interesting artefacts that have been locally contributed. A relic of more recent history is the Power House Museum, where you can learn about the first hydro electric power in Northern Ireland. The Park's main information point is the Dogleap Centre, where you will find a lively exhibition, audiovisual shows, and the Spinning Wheel (summer only).