Banagher Glen

Banagher Glen is a nature reserve and forest park south of Dungiven in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland. It has been a National Nature Reserve since 1974 and is one of the largest and oldest ancient oak and ash woodlands in Ireland. It is also a Special Area of Conservation and the nature reserve is home to many native species of flora and fauna. In spring, bluebells cover much of the forest floor. The forest also provides an important habitat for butterflies and is home to many birds including the peregrine falcon and buzzards. According to Irish mythology the 'last serpent in Ireland', Lig na Paiste, lived in the Owenrigh river in Banagher Glen. According to legend Saint Patrick had missed the creature when he'd chased the snakes out of Ireland a few years earlier. The serpent began terrorising the local population, and according to some versions of the myth could breathe fire. St. Murrough O’ Heaney, who had a church in the valley, managed to trick the serpent and caged him forever underneath Lough Foyle. There are three trails that start from the Trailhead car park: Owenrigh River Trail - A 5km walk along the Owenrigh River. Reservoir Trail - A 6km trail to Banagher Dam and Altnaheglish Reservoir. The route is signposted and involves returning the same way. Forest Trail - A 11km looped trail which involves walking through Banagher Forest. The route is initially the same as the Reservoir Trail but is not signposted after the reservoir.