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Dungiven in County Derry is situated on the main Derry to Belfast road. The town is a good base for exploring the nearby Augustinian Priory. This contains the tomb of Cooey na Gal, a Chieftain of the O'Cahans who died in 1385. The tomb is highly ornate and worth a visit. Dungiven is also well situated if you want to discover the Sperrin Hills.
The name Dungiven means "Given's fort" and this market town is situated where the rivers Roe, Owenreagh and Owenbeg converge at the foot of the 1535 foot Benbradagh mountain next to the magnificent Glenshane Pass, the road rising to over 1,000 feet on its way eastwards towards Belfast.
Near Dungiven is the beautiful Banagher Glen, popular with ornithologists. It leads up to the magnificent Altaheglish Reservoir , an impressive lake set up in the mountains, surrounded by forest.
At nearby Dungiven Castle , constructed during the reign of James l, there is a 20 acre Environmental and Conservation Park consisting of Victorian Gardens, Wetlands, Woodlands, Nature Reserve, Duck Pond and Picnic Area. It is located at the front of the Castle with free access all year round and offers panoramic views of the Sperrin Mountains.
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