Tourism Northern Ireland has announced the launch of the region’s first Signature Walk.
Working in partnership with the National Trust, Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council and Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust, the inaugural walk is located at Downhill Demense, near Coleraine.
Starting at Castlerock Train Station, the scenic 4.2 mile walking experience offers visitors the opportunity to enjoy wild and rugged headland and take in fabulous clifftop views along the stunning north coast before arriving at Downhill Estate where they can explore its collection of intimate gardens, ruins and Mussenden Temple.
During the two-hour circular walk, visitors can spend time at the iconic temple, which is perched dramatically on a 300ft cliff top, high above the Atlantic Ocean on the north-western coast of Northern Ireland.
The location offers spectacular views westwards over Downhill Strand, towards Magilligan Point and Co Donegal and to the east, Castlerock beach towards Portstewart, Portrush and Fair Head.
Research shows walking has consistently been the top activity that visitors to Northern Ireland want to do as part of their trip.
Statistics reveal 48% of visitors from Northern Ireland and 33% of ROI visitors experience scenic or interesting walks as part of their break to the region, with 86% stating their experience was good or excellent.
In addition, 77% of visitors from overseas want to explore new places, landscapes and cultural activities from their trip, with beauty of the landscape being the key reason to visit the island of Ireland.
The launch of the first Signature Walk in Northern Ireland will contribute to Tourism NI’s goal of creating sustainable, world-class experiences that meet the current needs and demands of the market. It is hoped this will be the first in a series of iconic walks.
Sheena Dickson, Landscapes & Activities Tourism Manager at Tourism NI, said: “Tourism NI is delighted to be involved in the launch of the Signature Walk and there cannot be a more picturesque and dramatic headland in Northern Ireland than Downhill Estate for the start of this exciting project.
“Developing these signature routes will help showcase some of our most special outdoor assets and tell the story of our iconic places by inviting our visitors to get their walking shoes on.”
Oliver McMullan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, said:”We are delighted to have the iconic walk from Castlerock to Downhill Demesne featured as part of Tourism NI’s Signature Walks for 2026.
“With its iconic sea views and stunning scenery, this beautiful coastline walk is unrivalled for its beauty; and as Castlerock is served by both bus and train links, it offers walkers a chance to really enjoy the Castlerock area and beyond, leaving the car at home to connect with nature.”
Laurentiu Ghisoiu, National Trust’s Senior Visitor Experience Officer at Downhill Demesne, said: “This trail is an amazing asset for both the local community and visitors from across the world.
“We hope it helps people discover the beauty of Downhill and surrounding landscapes, while supporting the Trust’s ongoing work to care for Mussenden Temple and the wider Demesne so people can continue to enjoy it for generations to come.”
Mel McQuitty, Outdoor Recreation Project Officer, Binevenagh Landscape Partnership, Causeway Coast and Glens Heritage Trust said: “It’s fantastic to see elements of the community-led Castlerock Trails and Tails Project coming together to support a new signature trail.
“Funded by the National Lottery Heritage Fund, the use of existing infrastructure, clear signage and a starting point at the train station shows how sustainable access can enhance people’s experience of the Binevenagh landscape.”