The best cycling routes around Ballyloughan
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Touring cycling routes around Ballyloughan traverse a landscape characterized by gently rolling hills, wide fields, and mature woodlands. The region offers scenic vistas, including views of the Gallion Mountains and County Londonderry. Drum Manor Forest Park, a significant natural feature, provides varied terrain with forest tracks and ponds. These natural features create a peaceful environment for touring cyclists to explore.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballyloughan
- The most popular touring cycling route is Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, an 17.4…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
1
riders
28.1km
01:43
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
20.8km
01:15
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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53.9km
04:03
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
72.0km
04:22
540m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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riders
45.2km
02:43
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ballyloughan
Tips from the Community
The Maghery Footbridge on the edge of Lough Neagh offers a small moment of peace in the midst of the expansive landscape. As you cross the bridge, your gaze glides over the gentle waters of the largest lake in the British Isles. In good weather, the clouds are impressively reflected on the surface of the water, making the scene look almost like a painting. Even when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a special atmosphere that invites you to linger rather than to quickly pass by. The paths around the bridge are mostly flat, but you should be prepared for occasional sections with unpaved surfaces. This could be a bit slippery, especially in wet weather, but this is not a problem. The connection to the National Cycle Network, Route 94, also offers you many other opportunities to explore the area. A little tip: Maghery itself does not have much to offer apart from the bridge, but a short detour to the nearby Oxford Island nature reserve is definitely worth it. This means you can easily combine a visit to the bridge with a larger circular tour.
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Beaghmore (Bheitheach Mhór), meaning ‘big place of birch trees’. The stones speak of ancient rituals and to a people who understood astronomy. When you visit this ancient site look up in wonder at the sky and reflect, that the people that built these monuments observed the same sky, sun, moon and stars.
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The church ruins date from the early 16th century but include stones from a much earlier pre 11th century church. After a new church was built, this one fell into disrepair, but the graveyard remains in use.
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An important historic site, Tullyhogue Fort is where the O'Neills were crowned the Chiefs of Ulster. It is now planted with trees and you can enjoy views across the countryside of County Tyrone.
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Built in 1802, Killymoon Castle was built to replace a 17th century castle which was destroyed by fire in 1801. James Nash was the designer, who also designed Buckingham Palace in London. Tours are available but must be pre-booked, as is afternoon tea in the castle tea rooms. See the website for more details https://killymooncastle.com/
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Near the banks of Lough Neagh stands Ardboe High Cross. Take a close look at the carvings on the cross which represent both the Old and New Testament. A monastery was founded here in the 6th century by St Colman and legend has it that it was created by the milk of a magic cow. Ardboe means hill of the cow, so who knows!
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A little waterside detour will take you to visit The Battery, a marina on Lough Neagh. You can grab at drink at the Battery Bar or take a seat on one of the many picnic benches and breathe in the peace and calm.
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There are 7 stone circles, 12 cairns and 10 rows of stones here at Beaghamore. In total 1269 stones were discovered under the peat during the 1930s. The site dates back to 2900 - 2600 BC.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballyloughan?
There are 5 touring cycling routes available around Ballyloughan on komoot, catering to various skill levels. These include 2 easy routes, 1 moderate route, and 2 difficult routes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Ballyloughan?
The terrain around Ballyloughan is characterized by gently rolling hills and wide fields, offering scenic vistas of the Gallion Mountains and County Londonderry. Routes often feature a mix of paved and unpaved surfaces, with some elevation gains, particularly on more challenging trails. You'll also find mature woodlands and forest tracks, especially around Drum Manor Forest Park.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in the Ballyloughan area?
Yes, there are easy routes suitable for families. For instance, the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop is an easy 28.1 km route that offers pleasant views. Another great option is the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, an easy 20.8 km path featuring historical landmarks and varied countryside.
What natural features or viewpoints can I see while cycling near Ballyloughan?
The region offers picturesque views of the Gallion Mountains and County Londonderry. Many routes pass through serene, rolling countryside. Drum Manor Forest Park is a significant natural feature with mature deciduous woodlands, ponds, and gardens. You can find a specific View of the Gallion Mountains and County Londonderry highlight on komoot.
Are there any historical landmarks or attractions along the cycling routes?
Yes, several routes pass by interesting historical sites. The Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort specifically features historical landmarks like Tullyhogue Fort. Additionally, the area around Drum Manor Forest Park includes the Drum Manor House Ruins, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Ballyloughan?
Parking is generally available at key access points for popular routes. For routes around Drum Manor Forest Park, there are facilities within the park itself. For other routes originating from towns like Cookstown, public parking options are typically available in the town centers.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, there are difficult routes with significant elevation gains. The The Sperrins loop from Cookstown is a 53.9 km difficult trail leading through the foothills of the Sperrins. Another demanding option is the Maghery loop from Cookstown, which covers 71.9 km with substantial climbing.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling around Ballyloughan?
The gently rolling landscapes and woodlands around Ballyloughan are enjoyable throughout the warmer months. Spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds. Summer provides longer daylight hours, ideal for longer rides. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Can I find accommodation or amenities like cafes and pubs near the cycling routes?
Yes, the region offers various amenities. Drum Manor Forest Park includes a campsite with facilities for touring caravans, modern toilets, showers, and electricity hook-ups, making it a convenient base. Towns like Cookstown, which serve as starting points for several routes, will have cafes, pubs, and other accommodation options for cyclists.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, all the touring cycling routes listed for Ballyloughan on komoot are circular loops, designed to bring you back to your starting point. Examples include the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop and the Bike loop from Cookstown.
What is Drum Manor Forest Park and how is it relevant to cycling?
Drum Manor Forest Park is an attractive eighteenth-century demesne near Ballyloughan, featuring mature woodlands, forest tracks, ponds, and the ruins of Drum Manor House. While it offers way-marked trails suitable for leisure cycling, it also serves as a beautiful backdrop and a central hub for outdoor activities. For more information on the park's facilities, you can visit nidirect.gov.uk or visitmidulster.com.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ballyloughan?
Touring cyclists appreciate the peaceful environment created by the gently rolling landscapes, wide fields, and mature woodlands. The scenic vistas, including views of the Gallion Mountains, are frequently praised. The variety of routes, from easy loops to more challenging trails, also caters to different preferences and fitness levels.
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