The best MTB trails around Royal Hillsborough

No, bicycles are explicitly not permitted on the trails within Hillsborough Forest Park. The forest is primarily designated for walking, nature appreciation, and dog walking, with several way-marked routes for these activities.

The mountain bike trails around Royal Hillsborough traverse a diverse landscape, including forests, river paths, and open countryside. You'll find a mix of moderate and challenging routes, characterized by rolling hills, extensive woodlands, and scenic lake and riverside trails.

While the guide features routes that are generally moderate to difficult, the region offers varied terrain. For a moderate ride, consider the Lurgan Park lake loop from Lisburn, which offers a relatively flat experience around a lake.

For longer rides, the Drumkeeragh Forest – Castlewellan Lake loop from Dromore Cathedral of Christ the Redeemer is a challenging 40.9-mile (65.9 km) trail. Another substantial option is the Lurgan Park lake loop from Lisburn, which covers 37.1 miles (59.7 km).

Yes, all the routes highlighted in this guide are circular. For example, you can explore the Lurgan Park lake loop from Lisburn or the Hillsborough Road – Broad Water Riverside Path loop from Aghalee, both designed as loops.

Beyond the trails, you can explore several attractions. The Lagan Towpath offers scenic views, and the Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park Rose Garden and Stone Monoliths provides a beautiful spot to visit. The historic Hillsborough Castle and Gardens are also nearby, offering extensive grounds to explore.

The trails listed in this guide are generally moderate to difficult, making them more suitable for experienced riders. While Hillsborough Forest is family-friendly for walking, dedicated family-friendly mountain biking trails within Royal Hillsborough itself are limited due to cycling restrictions in the forest.

The routes in the Royal Hillsborough area are rated by the komoot community with an average score of 3.0 stars. Riders often appreciate the diverse terrain, including forest trails and scenic riverside paths, which offer a good mix of challenges and natural beauty.

Specific parking information varies by trailhead. For routes like the Lurgan Park lake loop from Lisburn, parking is typically available near the starting points in the respective towns. It's advisable to check the individual route details on komoot for precise parking locations.

While Hillsborough Forest does not permit cycling, Northern Ireland offers several other well-known mountain biking destinations. These include Castlewellan Forest Park, Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails, Davagh Forest, Barnett Demesne, and Blessingbourne Estate, which provide dedicated trails for various skill levels.

The best time to go mountain biking around Royal Hillsborough is typically during the drier months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). This period generally offers more favorable weather conditions and firmer trail surfaces. However, trails can be ridden year-round, with appropriate gear for wet or colder conditions.