Things to do at Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne

Highlights at Downhill Demesne

Mussenden Temple

Perched right on the cliff edge with panoramic views of the North Atlantic Coast, Mussenden Temple is one of Ireland’s most photographed places.

Stop for a photo at this iconic temple, which was originally built to house the bishop’s library and was based on the Temple of Vesta in Italy.

Mussenden Temple due to conservation requirements is open for public during events. 

Downhill House

This is one of only a few buildings of its kind surviving today, and the construction is similar to Mussenden Temple.

Though it's now in ruins, the striking 18th-century mansion of the eccentric Earl Bishop is still worth a look. You might even get a chance to watch archaeologists at work.

The Walled Garden

Take a stroll through the Walled Garden, which once provided fruit, vegetables, and even flowers for the main house.

Now the garden is home to sheep and apple trees. Step through the garden to reach the dovecote. The sheltered lawns here are perfect for a picnic.

The Bog Garden

Stop by the Bog Garden which was created by Lady Bruce in 1910. See a variety of blooms including some stunning irises which pop up during the warmer months.

Dovecote and ice house

Stumble upon the old ice house, a round building which stored meat for the Earl Bishop's table and ice for keeping food fresh. The ice was cut from a nearby pond in the winter.

Hezlett House

Step inside one of Northern Ireland’s oldest buildings and learn about the reality of 17th-century rural life, told through the people who once lived here.

Hezlett House due to conservation investigation work will be  closed in 2024 .

The Black Glen

This small arboretum, home to many rare and non-native trees, makes a lovely place to walk away from the winds on the clifftop. See whether you can spot the fishpond and the statue of the Earl Bishop's brother – especially his head, as no one has ever found that.

Lady Erne's Seat

Is this a mill of some sort, or perhaps the summerhouse of the bishop's daughter Mary? Either way, it's a lovely quiet spot from which to soak up views of the sea, a fitting reward for the climb up from the Black Glen.

The Mausoleum

Really a cenotaph, this empty tomb was built as a memorial for the Earl Bishop's brother, George Hervey. See if you can find the statue of George that was blown off the roof in the Big Wind and now lies in the grounds.

Lion's Gate

This is one of two entrances to the property and it's topped by stone snow leopards or ounces. They've recently been restored and now roar in their former glory.