The best cycling routes around Glasdrumman
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(3)
85
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26
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Touring cycling around Glasdrumman, situated near the Mourne Mountains and Northern Ireland's coastline, offers diverse landscapes for cyclists. The region features rolling green hills, tranquil loughs like Glasdrumman Lough, and proximity to the scenic Silent Valley Reservoir. These natural features provide varied terrain, from coastal paths to routes with views of the granite Mourne Mountains, suitable for different cycling preferences.
Best touring cycling routes around Glasdrumman
- The most popular touring cycling route is Strangford Lough Cycle Trail: Ballygowan Loop,…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
2
riders
25.5km
01:31
170m
170m
Cycle the moderate 15.9-mile (25.5 km) Strangford Lough Cycle Trail: Ballygowan Loop for scenic views and charming coastal towns.
1
riders
34.6km
02:03
220m
220m
The Strangford Lough Cycle Trail offers a moderate touring bicycle experience, covering 21.5 miles (34.6 km) with an elevation gain of 733 feet (224 metres). You can expect to complete…
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33.5km
02:02
290m
290m
Embark on the Saintfield to Giant's Ring loop, a moderate touring bicycle route spanning 20.8 miles (33.5 km) with an elevation gain of 960 feet (293 metres). You can expect…
40.3km
02:30
370m
370m
Cycle the moderate 25.0-mile Moneyreagh to Drumbo loop through scenic countryside, gaining 1220 feet in 2 hours and 29 minutes.
12
riders
50.2km
03:00
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Cycle and pedestrian bridge over the Lagan
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The bridge is named after Captain John Shaw of Oliver Cromwell's army, who built an oak bridge here in 1655. A stone bridge was built by Thomas Burgh in 1691, although this was destroyed by flooding, which led to it being replaced by the present bridge in 1709.
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The facility is of impressive size.
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The structure consists of a circular earthen ring with a diameter of 180 m and an area of 28,000 square meters, surrounded by an earthen rampart 3.5 m high. At least three of the five irregularly distributed gaps in the ring are intentional and possibly original. East of the center of the ring is a small passage grave with a westward-facing entrance.
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The truncated round tower rises from afar, its massive structure still preserved up to 10.7 metres. Originally, the tower served not only as a spiritual place, but also offered a strategic view over the valley - a real advantage for spotting any Viking raids early on. The history of the nearby monastery, which is associated with St. Mochumma, is also interesting. It is said that the site was looted in 1130 and that the remains of a church were discovered near the tower as late as the 18th century. The beam holes inside suggest that the six floors were made of wood and offered a certain level of comfort.
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As you get closer, the mystical aura of the place unfolds, with its mighty, almost circular earthen wall, which measures over 180 meters in diameter and dominates the view over the surrounding plateau. This ancient henge complex is one of the largest and best-preserved monuments of its kind in Ireland - hard to miss when you get close to Shaw's Bridge. In the center of the ring, a megalithic tomb awaits you, which tells its own story with its five supporting stones and a mighty capstone. You can literally feel the thousands of years that have passed here since ceremonies and gatherings probably took place at this place. It is impressive how the Giant's Ring has survived over time, while the wooden structures of the Ballynahatty settlements are long gone.
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The old stone bridge stretches majestically over the still water, which is perfectly reflected and creates a calm, almost magical atmosphere. The surrounding nature is inviting and offers a wonderful backdrop with green meadows and shady paths. A light wind blows through the trees and the sounds of nature accompany you with every pedal stroke.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Glasdrumman?
There are nearly 30 touring cycling routes available around Glasdrumman, offering a variety of distances and difficulty levels to explore the region's diverse landscapes.
What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling routes in Glasdrumman?
Most touring cycling routes in Glasdrumman are classified as moderate, with 22 out of 29 routes falling into this category. There are also 2 easy routes and 5 more challenging options available for experienced cyclists.
Are there touring cycling routes with views of the Mourne Mountains?
Yes, many routes in the Glasdrumman area offer stunning views of the majestic Mourne Mountains, providing a dramatic backdrop to your ride. The region's proximity to these granite mountains means you can enjoy their grandeur even on routes that don't directly ascend them.
Can I find routes that explore coastal scenery around Glasdrumman?
Absolutely. Glasdrumman is situated near Northern Ireland's coastline, and you can find touring cycling routes that offer scenic coastal views. While the Annalong Coastal Path is primarily for walking, nearby cycling routes provide similar picturesque coastal experiences.
Are there any tranquil routes around loughs or reservoirs for touring cyclists?
Yes, the area features tranquil settings perfect for touring. You can find picturesque loops around the Strangford Lough Cycle Trail, offering expansive water views. The Silent Valley Reservoir and Glasdrumman Lough also provide peaceful cycling opportunities surrounded by natural landscapes.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Glasdrumman?
The touring cycling routes around Glasdrumman are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from over 3 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, from coastal scenery to views of the Mourne Mountains and tranquil reservoir loops.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Glasdrumman?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Strangford Lough Cycle Trail: Ballygowan Loop and the Moneyreagh to Drumbo loop, which offer convenient circular journeys.
What landmarks or attractions can I see along touring cycling routes near Glasdrumman?
While cycling, you might encounter various points of interest. Notable attractions include Kilmood Church, The Comber Greenway, and Drumbo Round Tower. You can also find scenic viewpoints like the View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in the Glasdrumman area?
The region offers routes suitable for families, particularly those classified as easy or moderate with generally flat profiles. The tranquil loops around Silent Valley Reservoir or Glasdrumman Lough can be good options for a more relaxed family ride.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Glasdrumman?
While specific parking details for each route vary, many trailheads or nearby towns like Kilkeel and Annalong offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check local information for designated parking areas close to your chosen starting point.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Glasdrumman?
The best time for touring cycling in Glasdrumman is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). During these periods, the weather is typically milder, and the natural landscapes are at their most vibrant, offering pleasant conditions for riding.
Are there any routes that traverse rolling green hills and rural countryside?
Yes, the landscape around Glasdrumman is characterized by rolling green hills and rural countryside, providing a visually appealing and varied terrain for cyclists. The Saintfield to Giant's Ring loop, for example, leads through such picturesque scenery.
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