Overview
Templetown Beach, known locally as Shellinghill, sits at the far south-east tip of the Cooley Peninsula in County Louth. The gently sloping mix of sand and shingle creates a sheltered, south-facing cove that’s particularly welcoming for families. Its Blue Flag status guarantees clean, well-managed waters, while the sweeping vista across Dundalk Bay and the rugged silhouette of the Cooley Mountains provides a striking backdrop for any coastal visit.
A Touch of History
The name “Templetown” is a direct nod to the Knights Templar, who controlled these coastal lands following the Norman invasion of the 12th century. Historical records suggest the area served as a medieval embarkation point for pilgrims crossing from Ulster into the Irish Sea. Though the Templar order was dissolved in the 14th century, the name survived and later inspired the Viscount Templetown title created for the Upton family in 1806. Today, the historic resonance is quiet but palpable, woven into a landscape that balances maritime activity with centuries of rural heritage.
Swimming & Watersports
The beach’s calm, south-facing conditions make it a reliable spot for summer swimming. During the official bathing season, lifeguards patrol the water from 11:00 to 18:00. Coverage runs on weekends in June, daily throughout July and August, and on the first two weekends of September.
Beyond swimming, the open stretch beyond the low rock promontories catches steady winds, drawing kite-surfers, windsurfers and body-boarders, particularly from late summer through autumn. The gradual drop-off and mixed sand-shingle composition mean visitors should always check conditions and swim within flagged areas when patrols are active.
Walking & Coastal Views
Templetown is a favourite for shoreline walks. The beach itself is wide and accessible, with a flat promenade near the car park that suits wheelchairs and strollers. Further along, the terrain gives way to natural shingle banks and driftwood, ideal for shell-collecting or a quiet morning stroll.
The beach forms part of the Cooley Peninsula Scenic Route, meaning the road itself offers continuous pull-ins for photography. On clear days, walkers can trace the coastline toward Clogherhead and catch sight of Slieve Foy, Louth’s highest peak, rising behind the agricultural patchwork that defines this part of the peninsula.
Nearby Attractions
Templetown’s location at the peninsula’s edge makes it a convenient base for exploring the wider region:
- Carlingford Ferry – A short 10-minute drive brings you to Greenore, where the 15-minute crossing to Greencastle in County Down offers one of Ireland’s most scenic short ferry rides across Carlingford Lough.
- Slieve Foy Loop – For active visitors, the 9 km forested hike to Slieve Foy (1,932 ft) delivers panoramic views of the bay and surrounding peaks. Route details are available on the Cooley Mountains and Slieve Foy page.
- Ravensdale Forest – Roughly 20 minutes inland, this woodland reserve features waterfalls, boardwalks and a circular trail that provides a cool, green contrast to the open coast.
- Annaloughan Loop Walk – An 8 km coastal circuit nearby for those wanting to extend their walking day.
- Mellifont Abbey – Ireland’s first Cistercian monastery sits about 30 km inland and makes a rewarding half-day trip for history enthusiasts.
- Cooley Distillery – A short drive inland, Ireland’s first independent distillery since the 1920s offers guided tours and tastings in a striking modern facility.
Practical Information
Parking & Facilities A sizeable free car park sits directly opposite the beach entrance. It fills quickly on summer weekends, so arriving before midday is advisable. Facilities include public toilets, picnic tables, and a designated family area. The nearby Barry’s Shop & Grange Post Office in Lower Rath operates as a collection point for the local “stamp trail,” a fun activity for younger visitors.
Dogs & Accessibility Dogs are welcome outside the lifeguarded season. During peak summer months, owners are asked to keep them on a lead to ensure safety and comfort for all beachgoers. The main promenade is flat and accessible, with accessible toilets located near the car park.
Getting There The beach is easily reached via the R173, which forms part of the well-signed Cooley Peninsula Scenic Route. From Dublin, take the M1 to the N2, then follow signs for Carlingford and the peninsula. The nearest services are in Greenore, a small harbour village with a handful of cafés and the ferry terminal. Public transport options are limited; the nearest regular bus stop is in Carlingford, with seasonal local services connecting to Dundalk and Greenore.
Seasonal Tips
The official bathing season runs from early June to late September. July and August see the highest visitor numbers and full daily lifeguard coverage. Autumn months bring steadier winds and fewer crowds, making September and October excellent for kite-surfing and photography. Winter visits offer dramatic storm-watching and peaceful, uncrowded walks, though facilities may be limited and water temperatures drop significantly. Pack windproof layers even in summer, as the open south coast can get brisk after midday.