The best road cycling routes around Ballyrickard
4.7
(9)
1,296
riders
106
rides
Road cycling around Ballyrickard, located in County Down, Northern Ireland, offers routes through picturesque landscapes bordering Strangford Lough. The terrain features scenic coastal views, fertile farmlands, and open countryside, providing a varied backdrop for rides. The broader Ards and North Down region, where Ballyrickard is situated, is characterized by a stunning coastline and diverse natural features. This area provides opportunities for both gentle coastal rides and more demanding journeys across the surrounding countryside.
Best road cycling routes around Ballyrickard
- The most popular road cycling route is Bike Path to Belfast – Peartree Hill Path loop from Comber, an 18.0 miles (29.0 km) trail that takes 1 hour 11 minutes to complete. This easy route follows a dedicated path, offering views towards Belfast and Comber.
- Another top favourite among local road cyclists is Ballycopeland Windmill – Craigboye Road loop from Newtownards Aerodrome, a moderate 39.8 miles (64.0 km) path. This route passes by the historic Ballycopeland Windmill and traverses rural roads.
- Local road cyclists also love the View of Portaferry Harbor loop from Newtownards Aerodrome, a 42.2 miles (68.0 km) trail leading through coastal areas with views of Portaferry Harbor, often completed in about 2 hours 45 minutes.
- Road cycling around Ballyrickard is defined by coastal paths along Strangford Lough, fertile farmlands, and open countryside. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy rides to more challenging routes.
- The routes in Ballyrickard are highly rated by the komoot community with an average score of 4.9 stars from more than 10 reviews. More than 1,000 road cyclists have used komoot to explore Ballyrickard's varied terrain.
Last updated: July 4, 2026
5.0
(2)
156
riders
26.5km
01:05
120m
120m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
13
riders
59.6km
02:31
380m
380m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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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.
31
riders
66.3km
02:41
340m
340m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
24
riders
77.1km
03:08
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Ballyrickard
Tips from the Community
The Tommy Givan Velodrome is a small but beautiful cycling track in Belfast, which has its own special atmosphere, especially in sunny weather. Nestled in green areas and surrounded by tall trees, it offers cycling enthusiasts the opportunity to do a few quick laps on the asphalt track. It's not about high-tech and hectic, but about pure riding pleasure in a peaceful environment. The slightly inclined curves invite you to take the momentum with you, and with every lap you feel the special flair of a velodrome, which may seem rather inconspicuous, but precisely because of that has its own charm. A perfect place to just pick up the pace and clear your head.
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The paths meander through lush greenery that makes you feel like you're far away from the city. A well-kept park that offers space for both exercise and relaxed rolling. The tree-lined avenues are particularly beautiful - perfect for cycling in the interplay of light and shadow. The route also runs along the Connswater Community Greenway, a green corridor through Belfast that beautifully connects Orangefield Park with other green areas of the city. The evening atmosphere with the play of light on the manicured lawn and the clouds over Belfast is definitely worth a moment to pause - a calm contrast to the otherwise busy city. Ideal for a relaxed ride in the early morning or to wind down in the evening without being too far away.
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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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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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Yes we have a Velodrome ! This 396 metre outdoor banked oval track is the only surviving facility of its kind in Northern Ireland. It opened for competition in 1957 and was used extensively throughout the 1950s and 1960s when track cycling was extremely popular. It continues to be used today. It was re-named the Tommy Givan track in 1981 in honour of the former National Track Champion, one of the stalwarts of track cycling in Belfast.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Ballyrickard?
There are over 100 road cycling routes around Ballyrickard, offering a wide range of options for cyclists. These include 26 easy routes and 82 moderate routes, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What kind of terrain and difficulty can I expect on road cycling routes in Ballyrickard?
Road cycling around Ballyrickard features a mix of scenic coastal paths along Strangford Lough, fertile farmlands, and open countryside. The terrain is generally well-paved, with routes ranging from easy, flat rides to moderate journeys that include some elevation gain, particularly when exploring the broader Ards and North Down region. There are no difficult routes listed, making it accessible for most road cyclists.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes near Ballyrickard?
Yes, Ballyrickard and the surrounding area offer several family-friendly options. The Bike Path to Belfast – Peartree Hill Path loop from Comber is an easy route that follows a dedicated path, ideal for a leisurely family ride. Another easy option is the Bike Path to Belfast loop from Comber, which is shorter and also uses a dedicated path.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints I can see while road cycling in Ballyrickard?
Road cycling routes around Ballyrickard offer views of several significant landmarks and natural features. You can cycle past historic sites like Sketrick Castle and the ancient Nendrum Monastery Ruins, both offering stunning views of Strangford Lough. The iconic Scrabo Tower is also often visible from various points along the routes, such as the View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road. Coastal routes also provide picturesque views of Whiterock Harbour and Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Ballyrickard?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Ballyrickard are designed as loops. For example, the popular Ballycopeland Windmill – Craigboye Road loop from Newtownards Aerodrome takes you past the historic Ballycopeland Windmill. Another great option is the View of Portaferry Harbor loop from Newtownards Aerodrome, offering coastal vistas.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ballyrickard?
The road cycling routes in Ballyrickard are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse scenery, which includes coastal views of Strangford Lough, tranquil farmlands, and open countryside. The variety of routes, from easy dedicated paths to more challenging rural roads, is also a highlight for many.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Ballyrickard?
The region around Ballyrickard, including County Down, is generally pleasant for road cycling from spring through autumn. These seasons offer milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, making for more comfortable rides. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions.
Are there options for beginner road cyclists in Ballyrickard?
Absolutely. Beginners can enjoy several easy routes, particularly those that utilize dedicated cycle paths. The Mahee Castle – Nendrum Monastery Ruins loop from Comber is an easy route that offers historical sights with minimal elevation gain, perfect for those new to road cycling.
Where can I find cafes or pubs for cyclists near Ballyrickard?
While Ballyrickard itself is a small townland, the nearby towns of Comber and Newtownards, as well as areas around Strangford Lough, offer various cafes and pubs that are welcoming to cyclists. These towns are often starting or ending points for routes, providing convenient spots for refreshments and meals.
Is there public transport available to Ballyrickard for cyclists with bikes?
Public transport options to Ballyrickard and the surrounding County Down area are available, though it's advisable to check specific bus or train operator policies regarding carrying bicycles. Services often connect major towns like Comber and Newtownards, which are good access points for the cycling routes. Planning ahead with the transport provider is recommended.
Are there any longer, more challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
For more experienced riders seeking longer distances and moderate challenges, routes like the Ballycopeland Windmill – Craigboye Road loop from Newtownards Aerodrome (39.8 miles) or the View of Portaferry Harbor loop from Newtownards Aerodrome (42.2 miles) offer extended rides with varied terrain and some elevation. These routes traverse rural roads and coastal areas, providing a more demanding experience.
Can I find routes that explore the Comber Greenway from Ballyrickard?
Yes, the Comber Greenway, a popular traffic-free path, is accessible from the wider region and can be incorporated into rides originating near Ballyrickard. Routes like the Bike Path to Belfast – Peartree Hill Path loop from Comber utilize sections of this greenway, offering a smooth and scenic ride away from traffic.
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