Downhill Demesne Loop, Co Derry

Difficulty: Easy

Time: 1.5 to 2 hours

Distance: 3.5km

Explore at your leisure around this beautiful demesne, quiet during the winter. The route takes you through sheltered gardens, open grassland and ruins of Downhill House, an 18th century mansion. The highlight is surely Mussenden Temple, an impressive folly that’s perched on the cliff edge above the sea. Enjoy far-reaching views out to Inishowen and even the Scottish isles of Islay and Jura on a clear day. The main car-park is at Lion’s Gate. Get the trail map on nationaltrust.org.uk

Afters: Warm up with a hot chocolate or cuppa at Al’s Coffee, a little cafe by the Lion’s Gate at the temple (alscoffee.org).