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Can my dog go on Downhill Beach?
Yes, but part of the beach is closed to dogs from 1 June to 15 September.
The rules through the year
- Jan
- Feb
- Mar
- Apr
- May
- Jun
- Jul
- Aug
- Sep
- Oct
- Nov
- Dec
- Dogs allowed
- Part of the beach closed to dogs
| Summer | Part of the beach is closed to dogs from 1 June to 15 September: from the row of white wooden posts at the old pillbox west towards Benone, behind the Blue Flag area. The rest of the beach stays open to dogs. |
|---|---|
| Winter | Dogs allowed on the whole beach from 16 September to 31 May. |
| Also | Downhill Demesne and Mussenden Temple above the beach are National Trust land. |
| Fine | £80 fixed penalty |
Where to go instead
Downhill Beach east of the white posts stays open to dogs.
On the map
Nearest beaches: Castlerock Beach (1.7 miles), Portstewart Strand (3.1 miles), Benone Strand (4.3 miles).
Where this comes from
These rules are set by Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council. Read them at the source: Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council dogs on beaches.
Last checked: 17 October 2026. Seen a different sign? Tell us and we will check it.
Common questions
Can I take my dog to Downhill Beach?
Yes, but part of the beach is closed to dogs from 1 June to 15 September. In summer: Part of the beach is closed to dogs from 1 June to 15 September: from the row of white wooden posts at the old pillbox west towards Benone, behind the Blue Flag area. The rest of the beach stays open to dogs. In winter: Dogs allowed on the whole beach from 16 September to 31 May.
What is the fine for taking a dog on Downhill Beach during the ban?
Causeway Coast and Glens Borough Council can issue a £80 fixed penalty.
Where can I take my dog near Downhill Beach instead?
Downhill Beach east of the white posts stays open to dogs.