Bishop's Gate walking trail
Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the beautiful Downhill Demesne with its scenic sheltered gardens and clifftops. Visit the apple orchard in the walled garden and the striking 18th-century folly, Mussenden Temple, originally inspired by the Tivoli Temple of Vesta.
Total steps: 5
Total steps: 5
Start point
Bishop's Gate, grid ref: C761354
Step 1
Start at the Bishop's Gate entrance to the Demesne and enter into the Bishop's Gate Gardens.
Step 2
Take the right track and pass through a arboretum with many rare tree species.
Step 3
Follow signs for Mussenden Temple and you will soon leave the trees behind to enter an area of open grassland with views of the majestic ruins of Downhill House.
Step 4
You can turn left towards the Walled Garden or explore the ruin – either way the paths will lead you towards Mussenden Temple, perched on the cliff edge. From here you can enjoy dramatic views of the Inishowen Peninsula.
Step 5
Follow the path along the cliff towards the east and you will come to a small collection of trees: take the stile on the left side. Steps lead you down to the pond and back to Bishops Garden.
End point
Bishop's Gate, grid ref: C761354
Trail map
Get in touch
Mussenden Road, Castlerock, County Londonderry, BT51 4RP
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