Mussenden Temple, Castlerock, United Kingdom

Mussenden Temple is a small circular building located on cliffs near Castlerock in County Londonderry, high above the Atlantic Ocean. Perched on the cliffs overlooking Downhill Strand, it was once possible to drive a carriage around the temple: however, coastal erosion has brought the edge closer to the building. The temple was built in 1785 and forms part of the Downhill Demesne. The demesne was formerly part of the estate of Frederick, 4th Earl of Bristol, who served as the Church of Ireland Lord Bishop of Derry from 1768 until 1803. It was Lord Bristol – popularly known as 'the Earl-Bishop' – who had the 'temple' built. Constructed as a library and modelled from the Temple of Vesta in the Forum Romanum in Rome, it is dedicated to the memory of Bishop Lord Bristol's cousin Frideswide Mussenden.

Now part of The National Trust property of Mussenden Temple and Downhill Demesne, the grounds encompassing Mussenden Temple, and its manor house (Downhill Castle) are open to the public all year, from dawn to dusk.

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User Reviews

Ciaran McGuigan (5 months ago)
Unparalleled views, from an outstanding mixture of grandiose architectural splendour, estate management and lovelock folly.

Paul Anderson Photography (7 months ago)
One of the main jewels in Northern Ireland's location crown! Such a stunning building with an amazing backdrop. 100% would recommend this as a place to visit as well as the surrounding areas. ?

PW (7 months ago)
There are some wonderful views of the Atlantic Ocean and Downhill Beach from this location. The ruins are also worth visiting, although it should be noted that Mussenden Temple is currently closed to the public. My only two criticisms are, firstly, the fact that the trails particularly near the Black Glen Dam are very overgrown in places and, secondly, the £7.50 parking fee at the main Black Lion Gate carpark is expensive in my opinion. However, if you are a National Trust member, car parking is free. It is worth remembering that free roadside carparking is available outside of the Bishop's Gate entrance. The floral displays in the vicinity of the Bog Garden are also nice. There are plenty of picnic benches, a coffee kiosk and toilets in and around the main car park.

Michelle Hampton (7 months ago)
Beautiful place to visit. Lovely sandy beach with the most amazing views

Ian Gregg (8 months ago)
An excellent day out at the temple and the beach. Coffee snacks and toilets Fabulous views Easy to park

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