Garvagh
Garvagh is a small, peaceful village in County Londonderry, set in the lush countryside of the Bann Valley. The village is best known for the beautiful Garvagh Forest, a vast woodland area managed by the Forestry Service, which offers a network of walking and cycling trails, a picnic area, and a fascinating replica Neolithic tomb. This makes it a popular destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a tranquil retreat into nature. The village itself has a gentle, unhurried pace, with a few local shops and pubs serving the rural community.
The area has a strong historical connection to the Canning family, who were local landlords. Their former home, Garvagh House, is now a hotel, and the family mausoleum sits in the forest. The village's Irish name, "Garbhach," meaning "rough place," belies its current tranquil setting. For visitors, Garvagh offers a quiet stopover and an excellent base for exploring the wider countryside, including the Sperrin Mountains and the north coast. It's a place to experience the quiet, unassuming charm of rural Northern Ireland.