About This Place

Downhill Strand beach forms the eastern end of a magnificent 7 mile (11km) stretch of sand and surf centred on the town of Castlerock. The beach at Downhill runs from just west of Castlerock to Magilligan Point. --> This is some of the most scenic coastline in Northern Ireland and there are fantastic views along the cliffs that back the beach. At points along the length of the beach there are sand dunes and even a waterfall. However, the most iconic feature is the Mussenden Temple which sits precariously close to the edge of the high cliffs overlooking the Atlantic Ocean.Downhill is both an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) and is also a Special Area of Conservation (SAC).Recently the beach at Downhill was used as a location for Dragonstone in the Game of Thrones. This is where the where the Seven Idols of Westeros were burned.

💡 Our Take

Looking for a proper doggy adventure in Northern Ireland? Downhill Strand Beach in County Derry/Londonderry welcomes furry friends year-round! With miles of golden sand, it's paw-fect for zoomies. While parking is nearby, amenities are limited, so pack accordingly. Swim safety can vary, so keep a close watch, especially with energetic pups. The wide-open space is fantastic for big dogs who love to run, whilst the gently sloping sands make it suitable for older dogs too. Tip: Check tide times before you go for maximum sandcastle-building AND dog-walking fun! Enjoy!