Discover Mussenden Temple

Mussenden Temple sits on the cliff’s edge, precariously perched above Downhill Strand and boasting panoramic views towards the mountains of Donegal and even, on a clear day, the Scottish coast.

Modelled on the Temple of Vespa in Rome, it was built in 1785 by the colourful Frederick Hervey, Earl of Bristol and Bishop of Derry. He wanted a refuge on his cliffside estate of Downhill – a place where he could be alone with his books, his thoughts and the sound of the ocean.

There was some speculation at the time that the man known as the “English Casanova” also wanted to be alone with his cousin, Lady Mussenden, for whom the temple is named, but as with so many of these tales, the truth remains a mystery.

What to see and do

A visit to Mussenden Temple is an opportunity to experience all the things that make the Causeway Coastal Route special. You can soak up the dramatic coastal scenery on the clifftop walk that skirts the edge of Downhill Demesne. The ruins of Downhill House invite you to imagine its former splendour. The walled garden, which once provided food for the bishop’s table, is a delight. In spring, the grounds are carpeted in snowdrops, bluebells and wild garlic.

Take a tour and your guide will share the intriguing history of the estate and point out the “must-see” spots – the mausoleum, a memorial to the Earl Bishop’s brother, George Hervey; the dovecote, the arboretum with its rare and non-native trees. And, of course, the temple itself – open to the public only during special events because of the need to preserve this unique structure.

The Mussenden experience

What special events, you ask? Did you know that you can get married in Mussenden Temple – exchanging your vows as the sunlight spills through the tall windows and the waves crash beneath you. It doesn’t get much more special than that. 

There’s another option, if you’re not the marrying kind. Book yourself in for the Taste of Mussenden experience – a five-course tasting menu featuring locally sourced products – that takes place within the iconic temple.

This a partnership between local food producers Mussenden Sea Salt and the National Trust, which manages the Downhill Demesne. And it’s a passion project for Mussenden Sea Salt’s Claire O’Kane. “Our ethos is to bring back life to buildings and landmarks,” she says “and this building just comes alive when people are in it.”

Beyond Mussenden Temple

Mussenden Temple is a real highlight of this part of the Causeway Coastal Route but there is so much more to see nearby. Why not base yourself in the period Bishop’s Gate Lodge on the Downhill Demesne or stay in one of the luxury forest lodges in Burrenmore Nest for a few nights and go exploring?

Enjoy epic walks on beaches such as Benone, Downhill and Portstewart Strand or go hiking along the Ulster Way, North Sperrins Way or the International Appalachian Trail. Play a round of golf at Portstewart or Royal Portrush. Sample fine Irish whiskey at the Old Bushmills Distillery and fresh seafood at Harry’s Shack.

Visit some other clifftop marvels – the ruins of Dunluce Castle and Dunseverick Castle are just a drive or a bus ride away. And if you’re looking for an urban outing, try Derry~Londonderry, a historic walled city with a decidedly contemporary attitude. Mussenden Temple is just the start of your Northern Ireland adventure.