The best cycling routes around Drumardan Quarter
5.0
(6)
102
riders
14
rides
Touring cycling routes around Drumardan Quarter are situated within County Down, Northern Ireland, offering access to diverse landscapes. The region features a varied coastline, including the Ards Peninsula and views of Strangford Lough, the largest sea lough in Britain and Ireland. Cyclists can expect undulating terrain through drumlin country, with routes often providing coastal vistas and glimpses of historical sites.
Best touring cycling routes around Drumardan Quarter
- The most popular touring cycling route is Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop,…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
3
riders
57.1km
03:21
270m
270m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5
riders
15.8km
00:57
80m
80m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
riders
30.3km
01:48
160m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
34
riders
44.9km
02:40
200m
200m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
25
riders
36.7km
02:07
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Drumardan Quarter
Tips from the Community
Burr Point marks the most easterly point on the island of Ireland. The spot is marked by a coastal sculpture by artist Ned Jackson Smyth. You can rest up in the sheltered cove which has a well-kept toilet and changing facilities close by.
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Built in 1622 by Roland Savage. The tower has had several alterations over its past. The neo gothic style was introduced in the early 19th century.
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Visitors to Corrog Wood will be greeted by a curious wooden sculpture of a Dryad. The sculpture has been affectionately named the ‘Frump in the Stump’. A dryad is a tree nymph in Greek mythology. The Dryad keeps a watchful, protective eye on the new wood standing at the entrance. Continue past the Dryad on through the little kissing gate and a loop pathway will be waiting to lead you around the 14-acre wood, where a mix of approximately 12,000 native trees and 400 metres of hedging have been planted.
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Quintin Castle is one of the few inhabited Anglo-Norman castles to be found in Ulster. The Castle was built in 1184 by John de Courcy, an Anglo-Norman Knight who had conquered substantial parts of Ireland from 1176. It is located in the Ards Peninsula, east of the village of Portaferry on the shore of the Irish Sea, The location hosts an unprecedented view of the surrounding landscape.
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The Marina is a nature reserve of unparalleled beauty, it is a good starting point on which to explore the Lough.
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Portaferry ( from Port an Pheire 'landing place of the ferry' ) is a small town in County down, at the southern end of the Ards Peninsula, near the Narrows at the entrance to Strangford Lough. It hosts its own small Marina, From where the The Ferry service operates daily at 30-minute intervals (7.45 am to 10.45 pm) between the villages of Portaferry and Strangford. The Lough being one of the world's most important marine sites with over 2,000 marine species. There are fine Georgian buildings in the town square, including a Market House, now used as a community centre. Portaferry Castle, a 16th-century townhouse ruin, sits atop a slope overlooking the Harbour.
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Your as far east as it gets. chapeau ! rest up in the sheltered cove. Burr Point is the most easterly point on the mainland of the island of Ireland. The point is marked by a sculpture by artist Ned Jackson Smyth. Just offshore is the intriguingly named Burial Island. Local stories say the name comes from a Danish burial reputed to have taken place on the island. The name might also derive from the Irish for cormorant, na broighill, or from the pronunciation of “Burr Isle”. well kept and fully enclosed toilet & changing facilities.
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Lovely place to rest. There are tables arranged outside to the right of the Abbey. Grab some supplies from the shop just up the road in the village, and enjoy the atmosphere. The Abbey is open 24 / 7. Grey Abbey is one of the best examples of Anglo-Norman Cistercian architecture in Ulster, and was the daughter house of Holm Cultram (Cumbria). It was founded in 1193 by Affreca, wife of John de Courcy, the Anglo-Norman invader of East Ulster. The remains, in the beautiful parkland setting of the nearby grand house of Rosemount, consist of the church with cloister and surrounding buildings to the south.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Drumardan Quarter?
There are 14 touring cycling routes around Drumardan Quarter, offering a range of experiences. These include 6 easy routes and 8 moderate routes, ensuring options for various skill levels.
What kind of terrain can I expect on the touring cycling routes in Drumardan Quarter?
The routes around Drumardan Quarter primarily feature undulating terrain through drumlin country, with many offering coastal views. You'll find a mix of easy, relatively flat sections and moderate paths with some elevation changes, particularly as you explore the broader County Down area.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, several routes are suitable for families. For an easy ride with coastal views, consider the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop, which is 9.8 miles (15.8 km) long. The region's forest parks, such as Tollymore and Castlewellan, also offer various trails suitable for family cycling.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the cycling routes?
The routes offer views of diverse landscapes. You can expect to see the expansive Strangford Lough, the largest sea lough in Britain and Ireland, and the scenic Ards Peninsula. Further afield in County Down, the dramatic Mourne Mountains are a prominent feature. Historic sites like Quintin Castle are also visible on some routes.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Drumardan Quarter?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes are circular. For example, the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop is a popular circular option. Another is the Portaferry to Kirkistown Castle loop, offering coastal landscapes.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Drumardan Quarter?
The best time for touring cycling in Drumardan Quarter, and County Down generally, is during the spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) months. The weather is typically milder, and the landscapes are vibrant. Summer offers longer daylight hours but can be busier. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
While Drumardan Quarter's immediate routes are classified as easy to moderate, the broader County Down region, particularly around the Mourne Mountains, offers more challenging climbs and longer distances for experienced cyclists. Within the immediate area, routes like the Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry provide a moderate challenge over 35.5 miles (57.1 km).
Where can I find parking for cycling routes near Drumardan Quarter?
Parking is generally available at key starting points for routes, such as Portaferry. For exploring attractions, Castle Ward Shore Car Park is an example of a designated parking area that provides access to trails and points of interest. It's advisable to check specific route details for recommended parking locations.
What historical sites can I visit while cycling in the area?
The region is rich in history. Along your rides, you might encounter sites like Quintin Castle and Kirkistown Castle. Nearby, you can explore Castle Ward Tower (a Game of Thrones filming location), Audley's Castle, and Dundrum Castle. Further afield, Nendrum Monastery Ruins on Mahee Island offer ancient history.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Drumardan Quarter?
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 6 reviews. Cyclists often praise the scenic coastal views, the tranquil atmosphere of the lough, and the variety of routes that cater to different abilities, from easy spins to more extensive tours of the Ards Peninsula.
Are there any cafes or pubs along the cycling routes for a break?
Yes, as many routes start or pass through towns like Portaferry, you'll find local cafes and pubs where you can take a break and refuel. The broader County Down area has numerous welcoming establishments, especially in coastal towns and villages, offering refreshments and local hospitality.
Can I access cycling routes using public transport?
Public transport options, such as bus services, connect various towns and villages in County Down, including those near Drumardan Quarter. The Strangford Ferry Terminal also provides a link across Strangford Lough, which can be useful for connecting different parts of the Ards Peninsula and Lecale area for cyclists. It's recommended to check specific timetables and bike carriage policies for local services.
Are there any routes that offer views of the Mourne Mountains?
While routes directly around Drumardan Quarter focus on the Ards Peninsula and Strangford Lough, the broader County Down region is dominated by the majestic Mourne Mountains. Many cycling routes within County Down offer spectacular views of these peaks, which famously 'sweep down to the sea'. For direct mountain views, you would need to venture further south into the Mourne area.
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