Kilrea
Kilrea is a small town on the banks of the River Bann in County Londonderry, acting as a service centre for the rich agricultural land that surrounds it. The town has a long history, with a charming and narrow main street that slopes down towards the river. Its most prominent feature is the striking St. John's Church of Ireland, with its tall spire that can be seen for miles around, standing as a landmark in the otherwise flat landscape of the Bann Valley. The town has a quiet, unhurried atmosphere, typical of many rural Irish market towns.
The River Bann provides opportunities for fishing, particularly for salmon and eel, and the surrounding countryside is ideal for gentle cycling and walking. Kilrea is known for its strong community spirit and its annual events. While it may not be a major tourist destination, it offers an authentic experience of life in the heart of Northern Ireland's countryside. For visitors, it represents a peaceful stop on a journey through the region, a place to appreciate the slow rhythm of rural life and the importance of the River Bann to the communities along its banks.