Glenshane Forest

Glenshane forest is a wood consisting of just over 1000 hectares lying to the west of Maghera. The forest area is made up of various conifer species but is mainly Sitka spruce due to the peaty upland soils. On the north edge is a large area of heather moorland. This is where the spring lies that starts the River Roe, which flows down through the forest through Limavady into Lough Foyle.

Glenshane contains many species of birds and animals. Buzzards can be seen in springtime displaying over the mature Sitka spruce in the valley. The Roe River meanders through the forest and is important for salmon spawning during the winter months, as well as being home to a small population of otters - signs of their feeding on fish can be found at the side of the river.

The moorland area is home to red grouse and wintering woodcock and snipe, with the call of the woodcock clearly audible to walkers on clear winter evenings.

How To Get There

Situated off the A6 Belfast to Londonderry road. It is approximately 8 miles from the Castledawson roundabout. Parking is at the lay-by beside the forest on the A6.

The forest is open every day of the year from 8.00am until sunset. Admission is free