Situated at the most north-western tip of the north coast, Magilligan Point lies at the western edge of one of the most extensive sand dune systems in the UK and Ireland that runs all the way to Downhill. The valleys, known as slacks, between the dunes provide warm, sheltered havens for butterflies and moths even on breezy days.
Upon the beach you will find a large variety of seashells including pod razor, oyster, Icelandic mussels and cowrie shells. The mouth of Lough Foyle plays host to a wide variety of birds from red throated divers and great northern divers out in the Lough to sanderlings along the shoreline. The second largest fish in the sea, the basking shark, also frequents these waters in the summer months where it filter feeds on plankton.
Access and Facilities
To experience Magilligan, you can walk along the beach or through the sand dunes. Follow signs from Seacoast Road (A2) for Magilligan Point and Ferry, along Point Road. Parking is available at the end of the road. Please note when military firing range is in operation, access will be restricted to Magilligan Point and the dune land around the Martello Tower.
Starting point grid reference: IC660 387
