Downhill Demesne & Hezlett House
Downhill Demesne & Hezlett House
Downhill Demesne & Hezlett House
4.5
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Monday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Tuesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Wednesday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Thursday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Friday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Saturday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
Sunday
12:00 AM - 11:59 PM
About
Mussenden Temple is one of the most iconic buildings in Northern Ireland, and is situated within the grounds of Downhill Demesne, a once magnificent manor house owned by the Earl Bishop of Derry, Frederick Hervey. The site is always open, but please see our National Trust website for details of when the facilities are open.
Duration: 1-2 hours
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4.5
501 reviews
Excellent
285
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169
Average
33
Poor
9
Terrible
5
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Murray H
Brisbane, Australia228 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
This area is very impressive and it was great to spend time walking around the site. With amazing views down to the beach and across to the Donegal peninsula, it was a great opportunity for spectacular photos. The temple perched on the cliff is iconic and quite a unique sight to behold. Very glad that we made the effort to visit. I’m always happy to pay the National Trust to support the ongoing upkeep of this historic place but the online portal to pay for parking was unfortunately not as simple as it could have been. It was however definitely worth a visit and was a highlight of our trip along the Causeway Coast.
Written 26 July 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
victoria B
Lincolnshire, UK587 contributions
Jun 2022
There are two places you can access the place from - The Bishops Gate and The Lions Gate and both are on the same road.
The Bishops Gate has parking in front and to access the ruin and temple, there is a walk through some gardens which have been restored by the National Trust.
The Lions Gate has parking but also a cafe and is closer to the ruin and temple.
There is a mausoleum in poor condition which was created for the 4th Marquis of Bristol in front of the ruin. The ruin itself is large with some hints of its former glory with the odd carved stone door frame. The temple is right on top of the cliff behind the ruin.
There is no shelter at all, and the day I went there was a strong wind and torrential rain.
If it is cold or rainy suggest you use the Lion's Gate where there is a cafe and toilet.
The Bishops Gate has parking in front and to access the ruin and temple, there is a walk through some gardens which have been restored by the National Trust.
The Lions Gate has parking but also a cafe and is closer to the ruin and temple.
There is a mausoleum in poor condition which was created for the 4th Marquis of Bristol in front of the ruin. The ruin itself is large with some hints of its former glory with the odd carved stone door frame. The temple is right on top of the cliff behind the ruin.
There is no shelter at all, and the day I went there was a strong wind and torrential rain.
If it is cold or rainy suggest you use the Lion's Gate where there is a cafe and toilet.
Written 30 August 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Nick
Nottingham, UK535 contributions
Apr 2023 • Couples
Cannot comment on Hezlett House, as it was bot open when we visited in early April.
We visited Downhill and Mussenden Temple. We found this to be a very worthwhile stop.
Parking is adequate, £7.50 for the day - you'll only be here around an hour though if you're only looking at the ruins and Temple.
Downhill is interesting to walk through on your way to see Mussenden Temple.
At the Temple, look over the walls on the clifftop - the view fown onto the beach is spectacular.
We visited Downhill and Mussenden Temple. We found this to be a very worthwhile stop.
Parking is adequate, £7.50 for the day - you'll only be here around an hour though if you're only looking at the ruins and Temple.
Downhill is interesting to walk through on your way to see Mussenden Temple.
At the Temple, look over the walls on the clifftop - the view fown onto the beach is spectacular.
Written 1 April 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
mick devenney
Belfast, UK58 contributions
Nov 2021 • Family
Have been here few time with the partner & kids it’s a good walk can be hilly so people with young kids I don’t recommend bringing the pram if it’s raining make sure you wear your wellies.
It’s great to see national trust investing in their attractions however they could upgrade the toilets in here they are very dated and a bit grubby. Also there is no clear signage in the carpark if it’s free for members or not (nowhere to scan your card) I’ve always left my card in the windscreen and hoped for the best.
If you go here hit up Al’s Coffee it’s amazing friendly service, amazing tray bakes top quality coffee.
It’s great to see national trust investing in their attractions however they could upgrade the toilets in here they are very dated and a bit grubby. Also there is no clear signage in the carpark if it’s free for members or not (nowhere to scan your card) I’ve always left my card in the windscreen and hoped for the best.
If you go here hit up Al’s Coffee it’s amazing friendly service, amazing tray bakes top quality coffee.
Written 1 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Tigertribal
Craigavon, UK1,055 contributions
Oct 2021
Interesting 18th Century mansion ruins leading to Mussenden Temple overlooking Downhill Beach.
Car parking charge is £5 at the Lion's Gate payable via phone which is a terrible automated service. There is also Al's Coffee shop & toilets on site.
You can also park at Bishop's Gate, just down the road, for free admission.
Car parking charge is £5 at the Lion's Gate payable via phone which is a terrible automated service. There is also Al's Coffee shop & toilets on site.
You can also park at Bishop's Gate, just down the road, for free admission.
Written 28 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ian F
Northern Ireland, UK701 contributions
Oct 2020
Having been in the area many times we have never called. We arrived about 345pm. They close the gates at 4.15. Speaking to the staff they said we would make it to the attractions in time. They would be around till about 4.30 and gates would be able to be opened. For someone that is physically challenged it is slightly uphill but well worth it. The ruined building can be accessed and has a clear route through.
Written 17 October 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
helenandpaul13
Worcester, UK1,687 contributions
Feb 2020
While staying in Castlerock I decided to give this place a viewing. After driving past the previous evening I noticed that the admission fee was 7.50 Euros each. So the next day I walked up following the main street then following the sign for the Ulster Way which takes you up a sharp hill with a row of cottages on your left and a caravan park on your right. As you walk along the road you come to a cottage on its own but walk past there and follow the signs.
As I walked towards the temple there was a bit of mud around but the walk along the cliffs was lovely with views over towards Lough Foyle on your left and the the Giant's Causeway on your right. On a clear day you can also see the Scottish Isles in front of you. If you're lucky you might see the train from Castlerock coming through the tunnel if you visit at the right time.
When I got to the temple, it was closed due to repairs being made to the floor, the mansion behind is all derelict although you can walk through it and around it. But why anyone would be charged all this money to see a dilapidated ruin and little else is a mystery to me. The entry fee should be much less for those wanting to pay. There was a lovely fresh breeze along the cliffs and I was the only person around when I visited. The views are excellent but there is little else at the moment to encourage people to want to pay.
As I walked towards the temple there was a bit of mud around but the walk along the cliffs was lovely with views over towards Lough Foyle on your left and the the Giant's Causeway on your right. On a clear day you can also see the Scottish Isles in front of you. If you're lucky you might see the train from Castlerock coming through the tunnel if you visit at the right time.
When I got to the temple, it was closed due to repairs being made to the floor, the mansion behind is all derelict although you can walk through it and around it. But why anyone would be charged all this money to see a dilapidated ruin and little else is a mystery to me. The entry fee should be much less for those wanting to pay. There was a lovely fresh breeze along the cliffs and I was the only person around when I visited. The views are excellent but there is little else at the moment to encourage people to want to pay.
Written 1 March 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
garpal
Antrim, UK149 contributions
Sept 2020
We took a run up here as we we're staying in the area, glad we did as it's a pretty cool place with lots of history. There are some nice walks up here and it's well looked after by the National Trust, our entry fee was £5 which in my option was well worth it. The views are stunning and if you get a good day can see for miles.
Written 24 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
alfie50
Southwold, UK2,748 contributions
Jun 2021 • Couples
I came here early every morning during my visit to Castlerock. Loved it.
It was grest wandering around the open spaces, the bog garden in the Bishop Gate area.
The atmospheric ruined house was great early in the morning, very quiet. Great views of downhill beach from the temple.
You can park in castlerock by the caravan park and there is a path that takes you into the Demesne via Black Glen.
Not to be missed if you are in the area.
It was grest wandering around the open spaces, the bog garden in the Bishop Gate area.
The atmospheric ruined house was great early in the morning, very quiet. Great views of downhill beach from the temple.
You can park in castlerock by the caravan park and there is a path that takes you into the Demesne via Black Glen.
Not to be missed if you are in the area.
Written 2 July 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Torette23
Marseille, France560 contributions
Jul 2023 • Family
Magnificent Mussenden temple whose access is quite easy for people with reduced mobility. Pleasant walk through these monuments including the ruins of Downhill House, a former manor. The only downside is that we were able to go in and see this library because the temple was reserved for the bride and groom of the day. But the landscapes, the weather, the site, the views of the ocean and its magnificent beach are worth the detour. A great introduction to Northern Ireland.

Written 17 August 2023
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
I am a member of the National trust I want to go there on Friday April 16 but can’t seen to be able book online membership 325098446
Written 13 April 2021
Sorry I thought this message was for the National trust
Written 13 April 2021
I am looking to visit here for my pre wedding photos it will be late evening will I be able to access the site and are there any charges?
Written 17 July 2018
You can walk in to the grounds outside of hours, but you won’t be able to get in to the buildings. What are you hoping to do?
Written 10 December 2018
I am planning to mussenden temple & travelling with Kid. I can see that I need to go to Castlerock Train Station anyways & then take a walk to the mussenden temple. It would be helpful for me if you let me know the below ?
1. Is there any Taxi or Public transport to go to mussenden temple from Castlerock station ?
2. If no & Walking is the only way then how long does it take ?
Written 20 May 2018
There is a small charge at the two main entrances (the National Trust have staff on duty) but as others have said, it's part of the coastal path and there are other access points where you can enter for free
Written 7 August 2017
Hey DE. Where did you go for the reception after the wedding? We're considering Mussenden Temple, but need to find a place for a dinner/dance.
Written 17 March 2017
Depends whether you want to go towards Coleraine or Londonderry. COleraine I would recommend The Lodge Hotel, Coleraine or slightly further to Royal Court at Whiterocks,Portrush. Going towards Derry I would recommend Roe Valley Hotel at Limavady. hope this is helpful.
Written 18 March 2017
My question is in regard to the car park. Is it free to park? If not how much is the cost? Also, how far of a walk is it from the car park to the temple?
Written 20 September 2016
Hi, hope I'm not too late with the answer.
Parking is free and from what I gather you can pretty much enter the site at any time. The visitor's center may just be closed.
It's a bit of a trek to get to the temple; however, it all depends on how much walking you're used to doing. There is a path and there is gravel in some sections. Not sure if it was because we came in after hours, but one does have to trek up and down a short flight of stairs.
Even if you're not up to much walking, it's well worth it. Take it slow. There's tons of space so if you go during a heavy period people can just go around you. It's so lovely that I'm sure you'd want to take it all in, so even if walking is not a big deal for you, take your time. The Temple creeps up as if it were the sunrise... slowly but surely you begin to see the top, then a little more, then more until you finally see the whole thing and if you're as excited to be there as I was, you won't be able to wait to get to the actual site. Amazing!
Loved every moment.
Written 25 December 2016
Hi can anyone help me with getting here by train or bus instead of driving? We will be coming from Belfast, I have never been so i am unsure of the way. I would like to see the temple, downhill demesne and perhaps the beach area as the weather is good.
Written 1 June 2016
There is a train but I do not know schedules as we drove
Downhill, Mussenden and the coast are all spectacular and I cannot recommend enough
We did it as a day trip from Derry
This is only 20 miles from my old family farm (1640. - 1843 when my great great came to Wilkes Barre)
Lots of history and beauty on the North Coast
Written 2 June 2016
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