The best road cycling routes around Ballyalicock
4.5
(74)
2,617
riders
137
rides
Road cycling around Ballyalicock features a landscape characterized by rural roads, coastal stretches, and gentle hills. The region offers varied terrain suitable for road cyclists seeking routes that combine open countryside with views of local waterways. Elevation gains are generally moderate, providing a balanced challenge for most riders. The area includes a network of roads that connect small towns and historical sites.
Best road cycling routes around Ballyalicock
- The most popular road cycling route is Strangford Loagh loop from Newtownards…
Last updated: May 12, 2026
20
riders
82.2km
03:34
550m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
44
riders
62.0km
02:50
460m
460m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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32
riders
55.7km
02:23
300m
300m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
5.0
(1)
93
riders
46.9km
01:58
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
8
riders
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Tips from the Community
Carrowdore Castle Gate is one of the original 19th-century entrance lodges to the Carrowdore Castle estate in County Down. Built in a Gothic style, it features a castellated parapet and turret-like details that echo the look of the main house. Today it stands as one of the most distinctive remnants of the castle complex, marking the historic gateway to the estate.
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Simple sandwiches, paninies and drinks. outdoor seating or in a covered space.
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Bike parking, nice coffee and eats, friendly staff, nice view of the lough
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Sketrick Castkle is a historic landmark situated on Sketrick Island near Whiterock. The castle dates back to the 12th century and the grounds are free to explore.
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This large tower house was built in the mid 15th century and was actively involved in warfare during the 16th century. It would have originally been four storeys high with a boat bay and subterranean passage. There were four chambers at ground level, the largest had a vault built on wicker centring and two ovens. The small unlighted room could have been a lock up or treasury. The tower-house was relatively complete until half of it collapsed in a storm in 1896. Part of the bawn wall survives to the north and east of the castle.
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Always worth the ascent. If only for the view towards Sliev Croob and the Mournes. Beautiful patch work of swollen hills, cut by colourful fields, that meander all the way to the shore of Strangford Lough below. There are several interesting woodland gravel trails in the woods, connecting to Scrabo, and Ards. Twilight is magic up here. Smooth tarmac Decent down to Ards via Scrabo Road is a joy, with the tower on your left, and the sprawling Lough, and Newtownards to your right.
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The house was built in 1818, set in parkland with shelter from woodland trees. There are fine exotic trees and cultivated ornamental gardens sloping gently to a lake. The interior is still largely intact, though some rooms to the rear of the house have been altered in recent times The three-storey tower to the south has a Jacobean-Gothic feel and appears to be largely intact; whilst the similar (but much smaller) three-storey gazebo to the east of the house is now in a ruinous condition. About 1992 a new residence was built a short distance from the original castle. Carrowdore Castle estate is now in private residence.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Ballyalicock?
There are over 130 road cycling routes available around Ballyalicock, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. You'll find everything from easy spins to more challenging rides.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Ballyalicock?
Road cycling around Ballyalicock is characterized by rural roads, coastal stretches, and gentle hills. The region offers varied terrain, combining open countryside with views of local waterways. Elevation gains are generally moderate, providing a balanced challenge for most riders.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Ballyalicock?
Yes, Ballyalicock offers a good selection of routes suitable for beginners. With 41 easy road cycling tours, you can find gentle rides that allow you to enjoy the scenery without significant challenges.
Are there challenging road cycling routes for advanced riders in Ballyalicock?
While most routes are moderate, Ballyalicock does offer a few more challenging options for advanced riders. These routes typically feature more significant elevation gains and longer distances, providing a good test for experienced cyclists.
Are there circular road cycling routes in Ballyalicock?
Many of the road cycling routes in Ballyalicock are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. For example, the Strangford Loagh loop from Newtownards - Strangford & Lecale is a popular circular route offering extensive views.
What interesting landmarks or sights can I see along road cycling routes in Ballyalicock?
Many routes pass by notable local landmarks. You might cycle past historical sites like Helen's Tower or the Ballycopeland Windmill. The Carrowdore Castle Gate – Grey Abbey Ruins loop from Newtownards specifically leads past historical ruins.
Are there places to stop for coffee or food along the road cycling routes?
Yes, some routes are designed to pass by local amenities. For instance, the Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop – Sketrick Castle loop from Newtownards includes a coffee shop, providing a convenient stop for refreshments during your ride. You can also find pubs like Poacher's Pantry in the wider area.
What do other road cyclists say about the routes in Ballyalicock?
The road cycling routes in Ballyalicock are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, coastal views, and the network of roads connecting small towns and historical sites.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Ballyalicock?
The best time for road cycling in Ballyalicock is generally from spring through autumn (April to October) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions.
Are there family-friendly road cycling routes in Ballyalicock?
Many of the easier routes in Ballyalicock are suitable for families, especially those looking for less challenging terrain. The region's rural roads and gentle hills provide a pleasant environment for family rides. Always check the route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's capabilities.
Are there road cycling routes with coastal views in Ballyalicock?
Absolutely. The region's landscape includes significant coastal stretches. The Strangford Loagh loop from Newtownards - Strangford & Lecale, for example, offers extensive views of the Strangford Lough area, providing beautiful coastal scenery.
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