A Temple at the Edge of the World

I stumbled upon this place randomly while scrolling through Google Maps during Reading Week—and it turned out to be pure magic. 🌊 Journey to Castlerock Took a 1-hour train from Derry to Castlerock Station (round trip ~£10 on Translink). Walked 200m through golden wheat fields (perfect photo spot!) to reach Castlerock Beach. Arrived during a sun shower—rewarded with a rainbow over jewel-clear waters and emerald cliffs. The beach was nearly empty, just soft sand and gentle waves. Time slowed down here. ⛰️ Cliffside Adventure Followed rocky paths up the easy-to-hike cliffs (traces of previous hikers guided us). Views along the way: bird’s-eye panoramas of the beach, village, and the lonely temple in the distance. After 15 mins through grassy hills, reached: 📍 Mussenden Temple & Downhill House Ruins Built in 1775 as part of the Earl-Bishop’s estate. The Roman-style rotunda was once a clifftop library—imagine reading here, waves crashing below! The ruins whisper stories of aristocratic grandeur and ocean-bound dreams. 🚂 Getting There From Belfast/Derry: Direct trains (~1hr). From Dublin: Train to Belfast → transfer (~3.5hrs total). 📌 Tips Wear waterproof hiking shoes (rocky & wet terrain). Pack snacks—only 2-3 cafés nearby with limited hours. Check train schedules (hourly service—miss one and you’ll freeze waiting!). #NorthernIreland #BelfastTravel #OffTheBeatenPath #CliffViews #AdventureAwaits