Downhill Demesne and Hezlett House

Have a fun family day out and wander around this 18th-century demesne, stumbling upon temples, dovecotes and gardens. It’s a great place to take the children to enjoy the magnificent cliff-top walks and beautiful views. See the Bishop’s Gate, which has a lovely Gothic gate lodge, and is the closest entrance to the gardens and the Black Glen. Have a look at the symbolic carvings, including a bishop’s mitre and several cow skulls. You can discover the Mussenden Temple, which once held the Earl Bishop’s library and is perched on the cliff edge. Stretch those legs in the Bog Garden by the Bishop’s Gate, which houses a great variety of flowers, including some stunning irises. The garden was first created by Lady Bruce in 1910. Look out for the Walled Garden which once provided fruit, vegetables, and even flowers for the main house. Now it houses sheep and apple trees, and provides access to the dovecote. The sheltered lawns are perfect for a picnic! You can also learn about the reality of life in the rural 17th-century cottage of Hezlett House, told through people who once lived there, in one of Northern Ireland’s oldest buildings. Remember to leave lots of time to explore the Bishop’s Play Trail, where children can try tackling the spider’s web, climbing the causeway stones and challenging the walking see-saw! The trail is accessible all year round and visitors are encouraged to give it a go as it is suitable for young and old alike. It also links in perfectly with children’s 50 things activities.