Magilligan Martello Tower is a historic coastal fort sitting at the tip of the Magilligan Peninsula overlooking Lough Foyle, making it one of the best things to do with kids in Limavady. Operating as an historic monument and heritage site, it provides families with a glimpse into 19th-century military defense history.

Prices start from £0.00, as exterior access to the grounds and coastal point is completely free for all visitors. When interior seasonal openings occur, standard historic site entry fees remain budget-friendly.

If you are looking for the best place for a day out with family and kids, this coastal fortress delivers an engaging combination of history and scenic views. Children can explore thick stone defense walls, view the 24-pounder gun replica, and spot ferries or sea birds across the water. It is a unique historical stop along the Causeway Coast.

What are the key features for families?

• Interactive Exhibits: Thick granite fortification walls, narrow arrow slits, and heavy timber doors invite children to step into military history.
• Educational Day Out: Families learn about Napoleonic era coastal defense, British military strategy, and 19th-century garrison life.
• Sensory Play and Nature: Salty sea breezes, booming waves along Lough Foyle, thick stone textures, and open coastal vistas engage the senses.
• Outdoor Exploration: Situated at Magilligan Point, visitors can pair historic tower exploration with sandy beach strolls and ferry watching.

What are the main highlights kids will love?

• The 24-Pounder Cannon Replica: Standing on top of the tower, children can examine the heavy rotating gun emplacement designed to protect Lough Foyle.
• Historic Garrison Quarters: Walking through the thick-walled living chambers where soldiers slept and stored supplies during coastal defense watch.
• Lough Foyle Lookout: Panoramic coastal viewpoints offering views across the narrow sea channel toward Greencastle in County Donegal.
• Magilligan Point Ferry Watching: Observing the seasonal car ferry cross the Lough Foyle waters right beside the tower site.
• Coastal Wildlife Spotting: Watching for seabirds, seals, and coastal wildlife along the shoreline surrounding the tower base.

Beyond the Main Attraction

• Benone Strand: Located 4 miles east, a 7-mile stretch of European Blue Flag beach perfect for family walks and watersports.
• Binevenagh Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty: Situated 6 miles southeast, featuring dramatic cliffside drives, walking trails, and panoramic views.
• Roe Valley Country Park: Positioned 12 miles south near Limavady, offering woodland walks, river trails, and an industrial heritage museum.
• Greencastle Maritime Museum: Accessible via a short seasonal ferry ride across Lough Foyle to Donegal.