Attractions and Places To See around Little Glebe - Top 20

The area around Little Glebe is rich in history. You can explore the dramatic cliff-top Mussenden Temple, an 18th-century folly that was once a library. Nearby, discover the ruins of Downhill House, a grand mansion devastated by fire, and the historical Downhill Demesne Dovecote and Ice House, which offer insight into past estate practices.

Yes, the region boasts stunning natural beauty. The Mussenden Temple itself offers picturesque views from its cliff-top perch. You can also visit Binevenagh Lake, a beautiful artificial lake on a cliff-top overlooking Benone Strand, perfect for a picnic. Additionally, Castlerock Beach provides a stunning stretch of golden sand with ocean views.

The area offers various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for cycling, mountain biking, and running. For example, there are challenging MTB trails like the "Mussenden Temple loop from Coleraine" and scenic cycling routes such as the "Causeway Coast Cycle Route." Runners can enjoy paths like the "Mussenden Temple and Downhill House loop." You can find more details on these activities in the MTB Trails, Cycling, and Running Trails guides for Little Glebe.

Absolutely! Binevenagh Lake is a family-friendly spot, ideal for picnics and enjoying nature. Castlerock Beach is also great for families, offering a wide sandy area for play. Exploring the historical sites like Mussenden Temple and Downhill House Ruins can also be an engaging experience for all ages.

For Castlerock Beach, there is car parking available at the top of the beach. You can even park directly on the sand in the eastern section throughout the year, making access very convenient.

Visitors frequently praise the picturesque settings and historical significance of the sites. The dramatic cliff-top location of Mussenden Temple is often highlighted as a favorite for its beauty and photographic opportunities. The mystical atmosphere of the Downhill House Ruins also captivates many, offering a glimpse into a bygone era.

Yes, Binevenagh Lake is a notable feature, nestled within Binevenagh Forest. It's an artificial lake on a cliff-top, offering beautiful views and a popular spot for angling and picnics. The surrounding forest provides opportunities for walks and enjoying the natural environment.

Yes, Castlerock Beach is a stunning option for both swimming and relaxation. It's a long stretch of golden sand backed by dunes. While RNLI lifeguards are present in July and August, caution is advised when swimming at other times due to its exposed nature.

The Downhill Demesne Dovecote and Ice House are historical structures located near Downhill House. The ice house was used for storing meat and ice to preserve food, while the dovecote housed doves, which were valued for their meat, eggs, feathers, and even their dung as fertilizer. They offer a fascinating look into the practicalities of estate life in the past.

For experienced cyclists, there are several challenging routes. The "Malin Head – Mussenden Temple loop from Castlerock" is a difficult touring bicycle route spanning over 127 km. For mountain bikers, the "Mussenden Temple loop from Coleraine" and "Mountsandel Fort – Downhill Beach loop from Coleraine" are both rated as difficult.

The coastal attractions and historical sites are generally enjoyable year-round. However, for the best weather for outdoor activities like cycling, running, and beach visits, late spring to early autumn (May to September) typically offers milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. Summer months (July and August) are popular for beach activities due to the presence of lifeguards at Castlerock Beach.