The official page lists a parking charge only, no admission price.
Non-members pay to park.
Enter this code in JustPark to pay, or at the machine. Members park free after checking in.
Downhill Demesne is the clifftop estate laid out on the County Londonderry coast by Frederick Hervey, the eccentric Earl Bishop of Derry, whose 18th-century mansion now stands as a roofless ruin above Downhill Strand. Mussenden Temple, built in 1785 as his library and modelled on the Temple of Vesta at Tivoli, sits on the cliff edge and is one of the most photographed buildings in Ireland. The gentle walk from Lion's Gate car park passes the ruins of Downhill House and reaches the temple in under a mile, while the Bishop's Gate trail takes in the sheltered garden, arboretum and mausoleum. Reviewers praise the well-kept paths, the views across to Benone Strand and the space for children and dogs on leads. Tips from regulars: the pay and display machine takes cards only and members should scan their card on arrival; refreshments come only from Al's take-away coffee hut at Lion's Gate; and the clifftop is exposed, so bring a windproof layer.
Due to the amber weather warning with Storm Boelo, Lion's Gate car park will be closed on Sunday 25th. We advise against visiting the site at this time.
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Dog friendly
Starts at Bishop's Gate, grid ref C761354. 2 miles, about 2 hours, easy difficulty. Gravel paths, mown grass tracks and some steep steps. Limited parking at Bishop's Gate; main car park 500 yards further at Lion's Gate.
Dog friendly
Starts at Lion's Gate car park. 0.8 miles, about 30 minutes, moderate difficulty; gravel and grass paths on moderate-to-steep gradients that can be slippery. Lion's Gate car park has 40 spaces, free for members and blue badge holders, others pay a fee; toilet and cafe at the start.
