The best cycling routes around Ballydrain
4.7
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rides
Touring cycling around Ballydrain offers diverse landscapes shaped by its proximity to Strangford Lough and the River Lagan. The region features rolling County Down drumlins, providing varied terrain for cyclists. Dedicated paths like the Comber Greenway offer traffic-free routes, while sections of the Strangford Lough Cycle Trail provide coastal views. This area combines historical sites with natural beauty, making it suitable for outdoor exploration.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballydrain
- The most popular touring cycling route is Comber to Mahee…
Last updated: November 10, 2026
5.0
(1)
2
riders
24.2km
01:25
120m
120m
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
2
riders
15.5km
00:59
160m
160m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
15.4km
00:58
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
24.4km
01:29
180m
180m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
85.4km
05:15
710m
710m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
Nendrum Monastery was a Christian monastery founded in the 5th century. The monastery finished somewhere between 974 and 1178, but the church survived until the 15th century. You can visit the ruins if you're riding past.
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A very beautiful castle in the forest
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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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Situated on the shores of Strangford Lough in an area of outstanding natural beauty, The Park offers peace, beauty and tranquillity. It is home to the Strangford Stone - the tallest megalith in Ireland. This beautiful 200 -acre Country Park offers a great day out for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a keen walker, a nature lover or simply looking for a great day.
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This tower-house, said to have been built in 1570 by an English soldier, Captain Browne, is badly ruined but is still of considerable interest. Rectangular and fairly small in ground plan, it was entered by a door in the north-west wall which has a draw bar socket and a murder-hole. To the left of the door was a stair to the next floor. There are two ground floor rooms, the larger with a semi-circular vault built on plank centring and the smaller with a pointed vault built on paired wicker mats. The smaller room, once thought to be a secure boat bay, may be just a storeroom (compare nearby Sketrick). There were two storeys above, but the upper parts are ruined. Part of the bawn wall survives to the south-west, cut into the hill.
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Ballydorn, or 'The Dorn' as it is locally known, is a beautiful and popular mooring ground with a short-stay pontoon attached to a permanently moored lightship called The LV Petrel that is now the Down Cruising Club headquarters. The LV Petrel was commissioned by the Commissioners of Irish Lights in 1913, and built by the Dublin Drydocks Company. This Lightship spent most of its previous working life at Blackwater Bank on the River Blackwater, Wexford. It was then sold in 1968 to Hammond Lane foundries in Dublin, before being saved to use as the cruise club HQ. The boat is registered as a national historic ship in the UK.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballydrain?
There are over 50 touring cycling routes around Ballydrain, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.7 stars from over 20 reviews.
What is the overall difficulty level of touring cycling routes in Ballydrain?
The routes around Ballydrain cater to various ability levels. You'll find a good mix, with 13 easy routes, 30 moderate routes, and 7 more challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while touring cycling in Ballydrain?
Touring cycling in Ballydrain offers diverse landscapes. You can expect scenic coastal paths along Strangford Lough, routes alongside the River Lagan, and trails winding through the rolling County Down drumlins. Dedicated paths like the Comber Greenway provide traffic-free sections amidst wildflowers and meadows.
Are there any historical sites or natural landmarks to visit along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, Ballydrain's routes often pass by significant landmarks. You can explore ancient sites like the Nendrum Monastery Ruins, dating back to the 5th century, or the historic Sketrick Castle. Many routes also offer views of Whiterock Harbour on Strangford Lough.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Absolutely. For an easy and scenic ride, consider the Comber to Mahee Island loop. This 15-mile (24.2 km) route is classified as easy and offers lovely views of Strangford Lough, connecting to Mahee Island. The Strangford Lough Cycle Trail: Whiterock Loop is another easy option, covering about 9.6 miles (15.4 km) through coastal areas.
Are there options for parking near the touring cycling routes in Ballydrain?
Yes, many popular starting points for touring cycling routes in the Ballydrain area, such as those along the Comber Greenway or near Whiterock Harbour, offer parking facilities. It's advisable to check specific route details on komoot for parking information at your chosen starting point.
Can I reach the touring cycling routes in Ballydrain using public transport?
Public transport options are available to reach areas around Ballydrain. For instance, the Comber Greenway, a key cycling artery, connects Belfast city center with Comber, making it accessible via public transport links to Belfast and then local services to Comber. For other routes, local bus services may connect to towns near trailheads.
Are there places to stop for refreshments or accommodation along the touring cycling routes?
Yes, the region offers various stops for refreshments. Routes often pass through or near towns like Comber and Whiterock, where you can find local cafes and pubs. For longer tours, there are accommodation options available in the surrounding areas, especially near Strangford Lough.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Ballydrain area?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. The Comber to Mahee Island loop is a popular circular route. Additionally, sections of the wider Strangford Lough Cycle Trail, such as the Whiterock Loop, offer circular options, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Ballydrain?
The spring and summer months (April to September) generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Ballydrain, with longer daylight hours and milder temperatures. However, the diverse landscapes, including coastal and riverine paths, can be enjoyed year-round, with autumn providing beautiful foliage.
Are there any routes that offer more challenging terrain for experienced touring cyclists?
For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the region's rolling County Down drumlins provide varied terrain with more significant elevation changes. A more demanding option is the Whiterock to Castlewellan loop — Strangford & Lecale, which is classified as difficult and covers a substantial distance with considerable elevation gain.
Can I bring my dog on the touring cycling routes in Ballydrain?
Many of the public paths and greenways in the Ballydrain area, such as the Comber Greenway, are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. When cycling on roads or through nature reserves, always check local regulations and be mindful of wildlife and other users. It's best to confirm specific rules for each route you plan to take.
Most popular routes around Ballydrain
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