Binevenagh

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Binevenagh
County Londonderry
Castle-rock-derry.jpg
From Castlerock towards Binevenagh
Summit: 1,263 feet C692302
55°6’36"N, 6°55’12"W

Binevenagh or Benevenagh is a hill in County Londonderry which marks the western extent of the Antrim Plateau formed around 60 million years ago by molten lava. The plateau and steep cliffs extend for over 6 miles across the peninsula of Magilligan and dominating the skyline over the villages of Bellarena, Downhill, Castlerock and Benone beach.

The area have been classified as both an Area of Special Scientific Interest[1] and as an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB)[2] covering 53 square miles.

The Bishops Road, named after Frederick Hervey, 4th Earl of Bristol and Bishop of Derry, extends across the plateau. Notable features include the Mussenden Temple and a cliff top viewing area on the Bishops Road giving good views over Lough Foyle and County Donegal.

Sport

  • Hang-gliding. The Ulster Gliding Club uses the slopes for both gliders and also hang gliding.[3]
  • Fishing. An artificial lake at the top of the mountain is used for trout fishing.
  • Motorsport. The Coleraine & District Motor Club run the Eagles Rock hill climbing event during the month of July.[4]

Railway Access

The Belfast-Londonderry railway line trains call at Bellarena railway station between Londonderry and Castlerock. Trains continue from Castlerock to Coleraine and other stations to Belfast Central and Belfast Great Victoria Street.

Outside links

References

  1. Area of Special Scientific Interest Northern Ireland Environment Agency website 2001-04-01 Retrieved 2009-11-19
  2. Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty Department of Environment - Retrieved 2009-11-19
  3. Ulster Gliding Club Retrieved 2009-11-20
  4. Coleraine & District Motor Club Retrieved 2009-11-20