The spectacular beach with waterfalls, historic temple and shaded areas as temperatures soar to 27C
BEACH DAY The spectacular beach with waterfalls, historic temple and shaded areas as temperatures soar to 27C
IF you're looking for a beach day out to enjoy the sweltering Irish weather, look no further than this gem up north.
Met Eireann has said temperatures will hit a scorching 27C this week.
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Downhill Beach is a popular 11km stretch of sand
Credit: Getty Images - Getty
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It is home to the Mussenden Temple
Credit: Getty Images - Getty
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There are caves and cliffs against the backdrop of the beach
Credit: Getty Images - Getty
And thousands will be heading to the beach to make the most of the good weather.
But if you're someone who likes to enjoy the beach with a bit of shade, Downhill Beach in Co Derry is perfect.
Northern Ireland is known for its spectacular beaches, with the Atlantic Ocean on one side, and the Irish Sea on another.
Many of the beaches have a backdrop of natural formations including sand dunes, mountains, cliffs and caves.
The 11km stretch of sand at Downhill makes up part of the Benone Beach.
The strand stretches from Downhill to Magilligan Point, and is a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.
Downhill Beach offers activities like water sports, scenic walks and an array of facilities on site, making it perfect for a family day out.
It has received many Blue Flag awards, making it the perfect place to enjoy some swimming or water sports.
And visitors can even drive onto the sand as cars are permitted year round, except on the area to the right side of the wooden posts at the beach entrance.
But if planning to drive onto the beach, you should be mindful of the soft and wind-blown sand.
OUTSTANDING BEAUTY
Downhill Beach and its dunes along with Benone and Magilligan beaches and dunes are an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) and a Special Area of Conservation (SAC).
It is part of the Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty due to the quality of the sand dunes and its flora and fauna.
As a result, it's the perfect place to take a walk through nature, with a backdrop of waterfalls, sand dunes and the popular Mussenden Temple.
This is one of the most popular sites in Northern Ireland, and one of the most photographed buildings.
The temple dates back to the 18th century, and offers stunning views of the North Coast.
The RNLI offers a Beach Lifeguard Service during July and August from 10am until 6pm daily,
Dogs are allowed on the beach, though there are restrictions in place between June 1 and September 15.
Visitors can also enjoy horse riding on the beach, but there are restrictions in place between May 1 and September 30 - when it's allowed before 11am and after 7pm.
The beach has bathrooms along with disabled toilets and parking at the entrance.
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