Overview
Templetown Beach, affectionately called Shellinghill, lies at the far‑south‑east tip of the Cooley Peninsula in County Louth. The gently sloping mix of sand and shingle is framed by low‑lying rock promontories, creating a sheltered, south‑facing micro‑climate. Its Blue Flag status guarantees clean, safe water, while the sweeping view of Dundalk Bay backed by the rugged Cooley Mountains makes it a photographer’s favourite.
History / Background
The name “Templetown” honours the Knights Templar, who owned the surrounding lands after the Norman invasion and used the site as a medieval embarkation point for pilgrims travelling from Ulster to the Irish Sea. Though the order vanished in the 14th century, the legacy endures in the beach’s name and the lingering sense of historic intrigue that pervades the landscape. The later Viscount Templetown title, created for the Upton family in 1806, also references this coastal spot.
What to See & Do
Swimming & Watersports
- Blue Flag waters are lifeguarded during the bathing season, with patrols from 11:00‑18:00 on weekends (June‑September) and daily in July‑August.
- Calm, south‑facing conditions are ideal for families, while kite‑surfing, wind‑surfing and body‑boarding thrive on the breezy open sea beyond the promontories.
Walking, Shell‑Collecting & Scenic Views
- A leisurely shoreline stroll reveals seashells, smooth pebbles and occasional driftwood.
- The beach sits on the Cooley Peninsula Scenic Route, offering ever‑changing vistas of Clogherhead cliffs, Slieve Foy and the distant Cooley Mountains.
Nearby Attractions
- Carlingford Ferry – A 10‑minute drive to the Greenore-Greencastle crossing (15 minutes) showcases the mountains reflected in Carlingford Lough. Carlingford Ferry
- Slieve Foy Loop – A 9 km forested hike to Louth’s highest peak (1,932 ft) rewards walkers with panoramic sea and mountain views. See the Cooley Mountains and Slieve Foy page for route details. Slieve Foy Loop
- Ravensdale Forest – About 20 minutes inland, this woodland offers waterfalls and a circular trail that contrasts nicely with the open beach.
- Annaloughan Loop Walk – An 8 km coastal circuit nearby for those seeking extra mileage.
- Mellifont Abbey – Ireland’s first Cistercian monastery lies roughly 30 km inland and makes an excellent half‑day historic excursion.
- Cooley Distillery – A short drive inland, the distillery provides guided tours and a tasting room for visitors interested in Irish whiskey.
Picnics & Family Time
Picnic tables, a designated picnic area and clean public toilets make the beach perfect for a relaxed family lunch with sea views. The nearby Barry’s Shop & Grange Post Office (Lower Rath, Grange, Dundalk) also hosts a stamp‑collection point for the local “stamp trail”.
Seasonal Highlights
The official bathing season runs from early June to the end of September. Lifeguard patrols are strongest in July and August, when visitor numbers peak. The steady autumn breezes from September to November provide ideal conditions for kite‑surfing and wind‑surfing, while the water remains warm enough for a quick dip.
Getting There
Templetown Beach is accessed via the well‑signed Cooley Peninsula Scenic Drive (R173) from the N2 at Carlingford. The nearest village is Greenore, offering a small car park and a handful of cafés. For those travelling by public transport, the nearest bus stop is in Carlingford; a local bus service (subject to seasonal timetables) connects Carlingford with Greenore and Dundalk. Visitors driving from Dublin follow the M1 to the N2, then turn onto the R173 towards the peninsula.
Practical Information
Parking – A sizeable free car park sits opposite the beach. It fills quickly in summer, especially on weekends, so early arrival is advisable.
Lifeguard Service – Lifeguards are on duty during the bathing season. Their schedule (posted on‑site) is:
| Month | Weekdays | Weekends |
|---|---|---|
| June | – | 11:00‑18:00 |
| July‑August | 11:00‑18:00 | 11:00‑18:00 |
| September (first two weekends) | – | 11:00‑18:00 |
Facilities – Free parking, public toilets, picnic tables and a stamp‑collection point at Barry’s Shop & Grange Post Office (Lower Rath, Grange, Dundalk) for visitors on the local “stamp trail”.
Dog Friendly – Dogs are permitted on the beach outside of the lifeguarded season; owners should keep them on a lead during peak summer months. (Please verify current policy.)
Accessibility – The main promenade is flat and suitable for wheelchair users, and accessible toilets are available near the car park.