How to Visit Downhill Demesne and Mussenden Temple
Read our travel guide on Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne in Northern Ireland. Includes tips on things to do and see, how to get, where to park, where to stay, or when to go.
Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne is one of the most amazing places you can visit in Northern Ireland.
There are several reasons to visit Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne.
Expect stunning landscapes, lush green gardens, panoramic views, a dramatic cliff-top walk, a beautiful temple, and a ruined manor house.
Without any doubt, Downhill Demesne with Mussenden Temple is one of the best things to do in County Derry.
The estate sits on the A2, so it's easily accessible by car. It is also part of the iconic Causeway Coastal Route, the best scenic drive in Northern Ireland.
Simply put, this National Trust landmark is a great addition to every Ireland itinerary.
So here's everything you should know about Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne before you go.
What to See and Do
Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne offer great walking routes, amazing views, and several historical structures.
If you like walking, history, and stunning landscapes, this is the place to go.
So what is there to see and do at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne?
Downhill Demesne
Before we dive into it, there are a few things we want to clarify first.
The name of this place - Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne - can be a bit confusing, at least for first-time visitors who don't know what to expect.
Basically, the Downhill Demesne is the name of the grounds that are located on this dramatic headland.
Mussenden Temple is the most famous structure you can see within the grounds.
If you're not sure what demesne stands for, here's a quick explanation.
Demesne is a private part of an estate enclosed within a wall that can be used only by the landlord.
Obviously, this is not the only 'demesne' you can visit in Ireland.
Castle Ward House and Demesne and Birr Castle Demesne were some of our favorite attractions of this kind.
Today, Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne are managed by part of The National Trust.
The best way to explore Downhill Demesne is on foot via the 3-kilometer Downhill Demesne walking trail.
Lion's Gate
Downhill Demesne has two entrances - Lion's Gate and Bishop's Gate.
Built in 1780, Lion's Gate was the original entrance to the demesne. Lion's Gate is the official paid parking that provides easy access to Downhill's grounds today.
There is a nice cafe and toilets.
Parking at Lion's Gate was closed when we got there, so we had to leave your car at Bishop's Gate.
Leaving a vehicle at Lion's Gate is always a safe bet if you're visiting Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne for the first time or have mobility issues.
Bishop's Gate
Bishop's Gate was built in 1794 to replace the Lion's Gate as the main entrance.
We arrived at Downhill Demesne too early, and the Lion's Gate was still closed. We found the second entrance at the Bishop's Gate.
Here you can also leave your car. Unlike the other parking, this area is smaller but free of charge.
No matter where you park your vehicle, you will enter the grounds through one of those gates.
Downhill House
The history of Downhill dates back to 1772 when Earl Bishop Frederick Hervey began building this demesne.
Frederick inherited the title after his brothers died and was described as flamboyant and eccentric.
The main structure within the demesne was the Downhill House, sometimes called Downhill Castle.
The building was destroyed by fire in 1851 and later rebuilt in the 1870s. It fell into ruins after the WW2.
The family mansion dominating the grassy plateau is pretty impressive despite its ruinous state and worth exploring.
You can enter the mansion's interior, though not much is left apart from the walls.
Downhill House is about 300 meters from Lion's Gate and 600 meters from Bishop's Gate.
Mussenden Temple
Perched atop a cliff, Mussenden Temple is an iconic landmark on the Northern coast.
The temple was built between 1783 and 1785, and its design was based on the Temple of Vesta at Tivoli.
The building was named after Bishop's cousin, Mrs. Frideswide Mussende, and intended to be used as a library.
While the temple's architecture is stunning, the views from the cliff's edge are simply mind-boggling.
On a clear day, you should be able to see Donegal's coast, the Causeway Coast, Portrush, Portstweart, the golden strand of Benone and Magilligan, Lough Foyle, and more.
Mussenden's interior was closed when we were there. It seems it's open only for special events, guided tours, and weddings.
The cliffs have been eroding, so the cliffs with Mussenden Temple had to be secured in the past.
Today, the temple sits on the cliff's edge, and you can enjoy the views thanks to the safety barrier.
Mussenden Temple is about 700 meters from Lion's Gate and 1 kilometer from Bishop's Gate.
Lady Erne's Seat
Apart from the house and temple, there are a few more interesting structures and places within Donwhill's grounds worth seeing.
Sitting on the east edge of the demesne is a lovely circular structure made of stone.
It's known as Belvedere and was built as a summer house for the Bishop's daughter so she could enjoy the view.
Black Glen Pond
Another beautiful corner of Donwhill's Demesne you should consider visiting is Black Glen Pond.
The pond was created in the 1840s by constructing a small dam in the east section of the demesne.
Black Glen Pond is a nice trail for those who have some extra time.
Mausoleum
Apart from both entrance gates, the Mausoleum was the first structure we explored within the demesne.
Sitting on a small grassy hill, this picturesque structure really caught our eyes.
It was built between 1779 and 1783 in honor of Bishop's brother George, Lord Lieutenant of Ireland.
Walled Garden, Dovecote, and Ice House
The purpose of the walled garden was to provide vegetables, flowers, and herbs for the estate.
The round building known as the Ice House was used as a refrigerator to keep the food fresh.
The nearby pond provided the ice during the winter.
Hezlett House
If you have extra time, consider visiting nearby Hezlett House.
The single-story thatched cottage was built in the 1690s, making it one of the oldest buildings in the area.
Hezlett's family acquired Hezlett House in 1761 and stayed there for the next 200 years.
Today, the structure houses a museum that explains the unique cottage's cruck construction, Earl Bishop's relics collection, and a collection of mid-Victorian furnishings.
Hezlett House is located on the junction of Mussenden Rd and Sea Rd, about two kilometers east of Lion's Gate.
Opening Hours
Downhill Demesne Grounds are usually open from dawn to dusk and 10 AM to 5 PM in winter. Always check the opening hours before you go.
Entrance Fee
There is no entry fee to Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne. However, you must pay £7.50 for the parking at Lion's Gate.
If you're traveling in Ireland on a budget, consider leaving your car at Bishop's Gate to save some money.
Parking
Parking was probably the only confusing thing about our visit to Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne.
The main parking at Lion's Gate is £7.50 for the day, and you can pay by phone.
The parking is expensive, but visitors are no longer required to pay the entry fee to the demesne's grounds.
We wanted to leave our car there, but it looked like we arrived too early, and the gate was closed.
So we had to drive a bit further up the road to Bishop's Gate, where we found another parking.
You can park on the side of the road, but there is limited space. This one was free of charge. Parking can be challenging on busy summer days and weekends.
How Much Time Do I Need
You should allow yourself about an hour or two for Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, though this depends on your preferences.
If you come on a clear summer day, you can easily spend several hours here.
Remember that Downhill is all about peace, tranquility, and views.
Basically, the more time you spend here, the more enjoyable your visit will be.
When to Go
You can visit Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne year-round.
Remember that the weather in Ireland is unpredictable, and you should be prepared for every season.
The best time to visit Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne is in summer.
As the weather is at its best, this is the peak season in Northern Ireland.
Expect lovely weather with plenty of daylight, but also crowds and high prices.
Everything is in bloom during spring; you can see bluebells, snowdrops, and wild garlic here.
Fall brings a change of color. Both seasons are ideal for visiting Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne.
Expect cooler days with rain and wind, but also fewer crowds.
Winter brings cold, dark, and wet days, but Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne remain open.
Here you can find tips on when to visit Ireland.
What to Pack
Make sure you have comfortable shoes and a windproof rain jacket.
The trails are well-maintained, though there are a few sections with steps and mown grass trails. Regular shoes should be enough unless it's raining.
Here, you will find our complete Ireland packing list.
Remember to pack light and think of layers and rain and windproof gear. Be prepared for every kind of weather when road-tripping Northern Ireland.
How to Get There
There are several ways to get to Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, including by car, train, bus, or taxi.
Car
The easiest way to get to Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne is by car.
Remember that a rental car gives you the opportunity and flexibility to go anywhere you need to at any time.
If you decide to rent a car in Ireland, you can easily explore the coastline without worrying about transportation.
The Downhill Demesne sits on A2, about 45 kilometers east of Derry and 100 kilometers southwest of Belfast.
Coleraine is just 10 kilometers from here. Dublin is 250 kilometers from here.
Driving in Ireland can be a bit more challenging for several reasons. However, driving the A2 Coastal Road is easy.
Travel Resources
When renting a car, we use Rentalcars.com.
Bus
The Ulsterbus 134 (Translink) from Coleraine stops at Mussenden Road stop, just outside the Downhill Demesne.
Train
The nearest train station is Castlerock, about 1 kilometer from Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne entrance.
A direct train operated by NI Railways runs between Derry and Belfast, including a stop at Castlerock.
You can walk from Castlerock's train station to Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne.
Taxi
A taxi from Coleraine or Castlerock is a convenient but more costly way to get to Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne.
Where to Stay
When it comes to accommodation near Downhill Demesne and Mussenden Temple, you're spoilt for choice.
The towns of Coleraine, Portstewart, and Portrush are within a short drive from this site.
These towns have many hotels, ranging from traditional guesthouses to resorts. You can also find a few bed and breakfasts in Castlerock and along the A2 Coastal Road.
Here are tips on the best hotels near Downhill Demesne.
Portstewart | Anchorage Inn - Situated on Portstewart's main promenade, this popular hotel is less than a 20-minute drive from Downhill Demesne. Expect cozy rooms with comfortable beds, traditional Anchor Bar (established in 1898), and great food.
Portrush | Portrush Atlantic Hotel - Situated only 25 kilometers from Downhill Demesne, this is one of the most popular hotels in Portrush. The property has comfortable rooms with sea views, a traditional restaurant, and free parking.
Coleraine | Bushtown Hotel - Positioned in the woodland area just outside Coleraine, this is one of the best hotels in the town. This hotel boasts stylish rooms, a luxury spa, a modern restaurant, and free parking. The property is less than 15 kilometers from Downhill Demesne.
Staying Safe
Downhill Demesne, together with Mussenden Temple, is generally a very safe place to visit.
As usual, never leave any valuables in your car.
Stay on the designated trails and stay away from the cliff's edge.
Travel Insurance
We never leave home without travel insurance that was designed to cover our expenses if something goes wrong during the trip.
Travel insurance protects against theft, flight delays, injury, illness, cancellations, and much more.
World Nomads provides travel insurance for travelers to cover their trip essentials, including sports and adventure activities.
SafetyWing is affordable travel insurance for backpackers, long-term travelers, and digital nomads.
Travel smarter and safer!
Is Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne Worth Visiting?
Downhill Demesne with Mussenden Temple is one of the best stops on the Causeway Coastal Route.
The Downhill Demesne is great for walking, while the Mussenden Temple, sitting atop the cliffs, is spectacular.
The Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne area is gorgeous, and it was great to spend time walking around the site.
There is no entry fee, and you can easily spend several hours there.
Therefore, we believe Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne are definitely worth seeing.
Travel Resources
Here you can find links to all the travel resources we use and which you might find helpful when planning your next holiday.
Accommodation: When looking for accommodation, we usually search hotels via Booking.com or Hostelworld.
Tours: Although we love to travel independently, some places are better to visit with a guided tour.
We prefer GetYourGuide for its easy-to-use interface and solid reputation. Another great alternative is Viator.
Rental Cars: When going on a road trip, we always use Rentalcars.com, a reliable site for booking a rental car in advance.
Flight Tickets: When looking for flight tickets, you can search Skyscanner to find the best price.
Travel Insurance: World Nomads and SafetyWing cover against risks of travel.
