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Northern Ireland

Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne

Visit this stunning landscape and beautiful gardens.

Mussenden Road, Castlerock, County Londonderry, BT51 4RP

Mussenden Temple in snow

Important notice

Due to the weather warning for wind, on Saturday 21 and Sunday 22 December, the car park and facilities at Lion’s Gate, including AL'S COFFEE Hut, as well as Bishop's Gate Gardens and Downhill Forest, will be closed.

Planning your visit

Mussenden Temple in snow
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Christmas on the North Coast 

This winter add a sprinkle of seasonal magic to your festive days out with a visit to the North Coast. This holiday season, you're invited to join us for our annual Christmas Choir Series at Mussenden Temple or one of our Christmas wreath-making workshops at Hezlett House.

An image of Mussenden Temple at sunset.

The Vox Set at Mussenden Temple 

The Vox Set returns for a second series of intimate concerts inside the iconic Mussenden Temple. Experience an evening like no other as both established and up-and-coming singer-songwriters grace the 200-year-old walls with their cherished classics.

Visitors at the Downhill Demesne

Events at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne 

Discover what's on at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne

The ruins of Downhill House at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, County Londonderry
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Things to do at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne 

See the Mussenden Temple perched on the clifftop and explore the dramatic coastal landscape of Downhill Demesne which is steeped in history. See far-reaching views from the country fields and paths. Look out for colourful wild flowers in the natural grasses.

Visitors walking their dog at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne , County Londonderry
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Visiting Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne with your dog 

Downhill Demesne is a one pawprint rated place. Discover Downhill Demesne with your dog. Explore the clifftop garden and wander through the historic coastal landscape to see the famous Mussenden Temple.

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Venue hire

An image of a bride and groom standing at the steps of Mussenden Temple.
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Weddings at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Desmesne 

Whether you are seeking a romantic ceremony, an unforgettable engagement or timeless wedding photographs, Mussenden Temple and the surrounding Demesne is an exclusive and exceptional venue like no other.

The exterior of Bishop's Gate Lodge, County Londonderry

Stay at Bishop's Gate Lodge 

New for 2023. Book a stay in the gothic gate lodge on the coastal estate of Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne. Bishop’s Gate Lodge is a period retreat for two at the entrance to Mussenden Temple and the Downhill Demesne, an 18th-century estate famous for its eccentric Bishop Earl and his iconic, clifftop folly. The Temple is one of Ireland’s most photographed places and just a mile’s walk away.

Two adults with a young child, all smiling together and admiring the festive window art in Newton House at Dinefwr, Carmarthenshire

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