The best road cycling routes around Macknagh
123
riders
35
rides
Road cycling routes around Macknagh traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills and rural roads. The region features a mix of open countryside and areas with historical landmarks. Elevations are generally moderate, with some routes offering more significant climbs. The terrain provides varied conditions for road cyclists of different experience levels.
Best road cycling routes around Macknagh
- The most popular road cycling route is St Lurach's Church Ruins – Bench Under a Large Tree loop from Pollan Burn, a…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
9
riders
53.9km
02:20
430m
430m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
31.9km
01:21
220m
220m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
59.5km
02:26
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
100km
04:57
1,160m
1,160m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Macknagh
Tips from the Community
Learmount Wood is located at the foothills of the northern face of the Sperrins in Northern Ireland. The forest features a wonderful diversity of tree species, including some that have been there for over 100 years. It's a beautiful place for a stroll, featuring a stream and an abandoned mansion dating back to the 1830s.
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Learmount Castle is a stunning Tudor-Gothic mansion that was built in the 1830s by Henry Barré Beresford. The house is now abandoned, but you can still use your imagination to picture its grandeur when it was in all its glory.
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Contained within the ruins is a sculpture of the crucifixion, which is thought to date from the 10th Century, making it one of the oldest in Ireland. St Lurach founded an important church here in the 6th century. It was plundered by Vikings in 832 and burned in 1135. Following the 12th-century ecclesiastical reforms this was the seat of a bishop from the mid 12th to the mid 13th century, then served as parish church until the new church across the road was built in the early 19th century. This long history is reflected in the much patched and altered fabric, and the big uneven graveyard.
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The church ruins date from the early 16th century but include stones from a much earlier pre 11th century church. After a new church was built, this one fell into disrepair, but the graveyard remains in use.
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An Cregán Visitor Centre is worth a visit for an introduction to the beautiful surroundings, its biodiversity, archaeology and history.There is a cafe and a children's park, nature walks, bronze age replicas and even holiday cottages. For more information see their website
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Enjoy riding through the greenery. ALl around you there are fields, pockets of woodland and big skies.
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The An Creagan Visitor Centre is an introduction to the beautiful biodiversity and archeology on offer at Creggan Wood. The centre is fit with a licensed restaurant, bar, craft shop, conference facilities, children's play area, and even holiday cottages.
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Tudor-Gothic house, built in 1830 by Henry Barré Beresford. Situated in Learmont Park there are some good gravel and mixed terrain tracks to explore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Macknagh?
There are over 35 road cycling routes around Macknagh on komoot, offering a diverse range of options for cyclists of all levels.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Macknagh?
Yes, Macknagh offers several easy road cycling routes. For example, the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Maghera is an easy 19.8-mile (31.9 km) path featuring gentle gradients and scenic views, perfect for those new to road cycling.
What are the options for experienced road cyclists looking for a challenge?
Experienced cyclists can find more challenging routes with significant climbs. The Learmount Wood – Learmount Castle loop from Maghera is a difficult 62.1-mile (100.0 km) route with over 1,100 meters of elevation gain, providing a substantial test of endurance.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in the Macknagh area?
Many of the road cycling routes around Macknagh are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. The St Lurach's Church Ruins – Bench Under a Large Tree loop from Pollan Burn is a popular 33.4-mile (53.8 km) circular route offering varied terrain.
What kind of views can I expect along the road cycling routes?
Road cycling routes in Macknagh often feature views of rolling hills, rural landscapes, and open countryside. Some routes, like the View of Lough Neagh – Lough Neagh loop from Maghera, offer scenic glimpses of Lough Neagh, one of the largest freshwater lakes in the British Isles.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Macknagh?
The best time for road cycling in Macknagh is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. While cycling is possible year-round, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions outside of these months.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
While specific cafes are not listed for every route, Macknagh and its surrounding villages offer local establishments where cyclists can stop for refreshments. It's advisable to check local listings or plan your route to pass through towns like Maghera for convenience.
What are the typical distances for road cycling routes in Macknagh?
Road cycling routes in Macknagh vary significantly in distance. You can find shorter, easy loops around 19.8 miles (31.9 km), such as the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Maghera, up to longer, more challenging rides like the Bench Under a Large Tree – An Creagan Visitor Centre loop from Maghera, which covers 64.6 miles (104.0 km).
Is parking available near the road cycling routes?
Parking is generally available in the towns and villages that serve as starting points for many routes, such as Maghera or Pollan Burn. Look for public car parks or designated parking areas, especially when embarking on longer rides.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Macknagh?
The komoot community frequently praises Macknagh for its diverse terrain, ranging from gentle gradients to challenging climbs, and the peaceful rural roads. Cyclists appreciate the opportunity to explore the countryside and enjoy the scenic views, including glimpses of Lough Neagh.
Are the road cycling routes in Macknagh suitable for families?
For families with younger or less experienced riders, it's best to choose the easier, shorter routes with minimal elevation gain. The region's rural roads can be quiet, but always prioritize routes away from heavy traffic. The St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Maghera is an easy option that might be suitable for families.
What are the elevation changes like on Macknagh's road cycling routes?
Macknagh's landscape features rolling hills, so elevation changes are common. Easy routes might have around 200-300 meters of ascent, while moderate routes can involve 400-900 meters. The most difficult routes can exceed 1,100 meters of climbing, offering significant challenges.
Most popular routes around Macknagh
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