Downhill Beach

What You'll Find

Downhill Beach is one of the most beautiful beaches along Northern Ireland's North Coast, and definitely one to add to your list if your wee adventurers love a beach day!

With miles of golden sand, huge open views and the famous Mussenden Temple sitting high on the cliffs above, it's a pretty spectacular place to visit.

And one of the best things about Downhill Beach is just how much space there is!

The kids can run around, build sandcastles, dig holes, play ball games and enjoy exploring the shoreline. When the tide is out, the beach seems to stretch on forever!

It's also a lovely spot for a family walk, with the waves rolling in on one side and the dramatic cliffs on the other.

And don't forget to look up!

Perched high above the beach is the beautiful Mussenden Temple, one of the most recognisable landmarks along the Causeway Coast. It's such an impressive sight, and the kids will love spotting the little round building sitting right on the edge of the cliffs.

If you're making a bigger day of it, you could also visit Downhill Demesne, the National Trust estate above the beach.

Here you'll find the ruins of Downhill House, beautiful grounds to explore and a closer look at Mussenden Temple, with incredible views across the coastline. It's a separate visit from the beach, but a lovely extra if your family enjoys exploring old buildings and a bit of history.

Back down on the sand, there's plenty of room to spread out a picnic blanket and enjoy a few hours by the sea.

Bring the buckets, spades and a football, and you're sorted!

Whether you're planning a long beach walk or a few hours of sandcastle building, Downhill Beach is a brilliant spot for a family day out on the North Coast.

Wee Ones Will Love...

• ✓Running around on the huge stretch of golden sand
• ✓Building sandcastles, digging holes and playing beach games
• ✓Exploring the shoreline and watching the waves roll in
• ✓Spotting Mussenden Temple perched high above the beach
• ✓Enjoying a picnic with beautiful views along the North Coast

Before You Visit

Downhill is a very open beach, so it can be windy even on sunny days. Bring an extra layer, especially for younger children.

Check the tide times before visiting, as the amount of beach available changes throughout the day.

The sea can have strong currents and changing conditions, so check current beach safety advice before anyone goes into the water.

Keep well away from the base of the cliffs because of the risk of falling rocks.

If you're planning to visit Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, remember they're up on the cliffs and are a separate attraction from the beach itself.

⭐ Wee Adventurers Top Tips

• ⭐Don't forget the buckets and spades! There's so much sand for the kids to enjoy.
• ⭐Look up towards the cliffs and see if the wee ones can spot Mussenden Temple. It's such a beautiful sight from the beach.
• ⭐Pack a picnic and bring a windproof layer. Even on a sunny day, the sea breeze can be chilly!
• ⭐If you're planning a longer visit, combine the beach with Downhill Demesne and Mussenden Temple for a bit of exploring and some incredible views.
• ⭐Check the tide times before setting off, especially if you're hoping for a long walk along the sand.