Limavady (Limavadde) derives its name from 'Leim an Mhadaidh' and means ‘Leap of the Dog’. The name ties the original location of the settlement to the O’Cahan’s castle in the Roe Valley Country Park, signposted and on the Roe Valley Scenic Drive. The Dog Leap relates to a faithful guard dog of the O'Cahan's which is said to have leapt over the river gorge to warn its master of approaching enemies. The O’Cahan's ruled the area from the 14th century until their last chieftain Donal Ballagh surrendered to Sir Henry Docwra in 1602, during his campaign in Ireland under the authority of Queen Elizabeth 1st.