Binevenagh facts for kids
Quick facts for kids Binevenagh |
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| Binn Fhoibhne | |
View from Eagle's Rock towards Binevenagh.
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| Highest point | |
| Elevation | 385 m (1,263 ft) |
| Prominence | 170 m (560 ft) |
| Listing | Marilyn |
| Naming | |
| English translation | Foibhne's peak |
| Language of name | Irish |
| Geography | |
 Binevenagh
Location in Northern Ireland
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| Location | County Londonderry, Northern Ireland |
| Parent range | Antrim Plateau |
| OSI/OSNI grid | C692302 |
| Topo map | OSNI Discoverer Series 04 Coleraine (1:50000) |
Binevenagh is a cool mountain located in County Londonderry, Northern Ireland. Its name comes from the Irish words Binn Fhoibhne, which means "Foibhne's peak." This mountain is the western edge of the Antrim Plateau.
Imagine this: about 60 million years ago, hot, melted rock called lava flowed out and cooled down. That's how Binevenagh and the whole plateau were formed! The flat top of the mountain and its steep cliffs stretch for more than 6 miles. They stand tall over the Magilligan peninsula. You can see them from villages like Bellarena, Downhill, Castlerock, and Benone beach.
Because it's so special, Binevenagh is protected. It's known as an Area of Special Scientific Interest. It's also an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB). This means its amazing natural features are kept safe. The AONB covers a large area, about 138 square kilometers.
A famous road called the Bishop's Road runs across the top of the plateau. It's named after a Bishop of Derry. Along this road, you can find the historic Mussenden Temple. There's also a great viewing spot on the cliffs. From there, you get awesome views over Lough Foyle. You can even see across to Inishowen in County Donegal.
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Fun Activities at Binevenagh
Binevenagh is a fantastic place for outdoor adventures! Many people come here to enjoy different sports and activities.
Soaring Through the Sky
- Gliding: If you love flying, the Ulster Gliding Club uses the mountain slopes. Gliders are like airplanes without engines. They use air currents to stay in the sky.
- Hang Gliding and Paragliding: The Ulster Hang Gliding and Paragliding Club (UHPC) also uses these slopes. People launch themselves from the cliffs. They use special wings to soar high above the ground. It's an amazing way to see the landscape from above!
Fishing for Trout
- Fishing: At the very top of the mountain, there's a special lake. This lake is man-made and is a popular spot for fishing. You can try to catch trout there. It's a peaceful way to spend time outdoors.
Exciting Motorsport Events
- Motorsport: If you like fast cars, the Coleraine & District Motor Club holds an event here. It's called the Eagles Rock hillclimbing event. It happens every July. Drivers race their cars up the mountain roads. It's a thrilling competition!
How to Get There: Train Travel
You can easily reach the Binevenagh area by train. The Belfast-Derry railway line runs nearby. This line is operated by Northern Ireland Railways (NIR).
Trains stop at Bellarena railway station. This station is located between Waterside railway station in Derry and Castlerock railway station. From Castlerock, trains continue to Coleraine railway station. You can also travel further to Belfast Central and Belfast Great Victoria Street.
