Downhill Demesne and Mussenden Temple
A clifftop temple, a ruined mansion and views along Benone Strand.
- Distance
- 3 km
- Ascent
- 90 m
- Time
- 1 h
- Grade
- Easy
- Route
- Circular
- High point
- 70 m
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Route mapped on from OpenStreetMap paths, with heights from EU-DEM terrain data; not yet checked on the ground by TRXO. Added to TRXO on . For planning only: always navigate with an up-to-date map such as OS Explorer or Harvey. How we make our routes.
About this walk
Downhill Demesne and Mussenden Temple is an easy 3 km circular walk with 90 m of ascent, taking about 1 hours. It starts at Downhill Demesne (grid reference NV 937 961). The start can be reached by public transport.
Mussenden Temple was built in the 1780s as a library for the eccentric Earl Bishop, perched on the very edge of the cliffs above Benone Strand. The walk crosses the Downhill estate past the ruins of his mansion to the temple.
It returns through the gardens and past the Bishop's Gate. The National Trust looks after the estate.
Route
-
1
The mansion
Walk across the estate past the ruined Downhill House.
-
2
Mussenden Temple
Continue to the temple on the cliff edge, then return through the gardens.
Summit
Questions about this walk
- How long does Downhill Demesne and Mussenden Temple take?
- Most walkers take 1–1 hours for the 3 km route, which has 90 m of ascent. That allows for short stops; give yourself longer in winter, in poor weather or with a group.
- Where does the walk start, and where can I park?
- It starts at Downhill Demesne (grid reference NV 937 961). National Trust car park at Downhill (charge).
- Can I get there by public transport?
- Castlerock station on the Belfast–Derry line is about 2 km away. Check times with Translink.
- How hard is it?
- It's graded easy. Grassy paths and estate tracks.
- Can I take my dog?
- Yes, dogs are welcome on this walk. Before you go: National Trust.
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