The best cycling routes around Drumard
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Touring cycling around Drumard, located within County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, offers diverse landscapes for cyclists. The region features rolling hills, river valleys, and the challenging terrain of the Sperrin Mountains. Extensive forests like Davagh Forest and views of Lough Neagh provide varied cycling environments. This area provides a mix of well-paved roads and gravel paths suitable for different cycling preferences.
Best touring cycling routes around Drumard
- The most popular touring cycling route is Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue…
Last updated: June 29, 2026
53.9km
04:03
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. 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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72.0km
04:22
540m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
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 Drumard
Tips from the Community
For cyclists following the 'Lough Neagh Cycle Way' (National Cycle Route 94), the Maghery footbridge is an iconic resting point and an essential link. This elegant, modern bridge spans the mouth of the Upper Bann as it enters the lough.
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As you cycle through the rolling landscape of County Tyrone, the Wellbrook Beetling Mill is an absolute must for a stopover. Situated in an idyllic, wooded stream valley along the Ballinderry River, this 19th-century water mill provides a stark contrast to the tranquility of its surroundings. This is the last working 'beetling mill' in the United Kingdom. "Beetling" was the final step in traditional Irish linen production: using enormous wooden hammers (beetles), powered by a water wheel nearly five metres high, the linen was processed for hours until it acquired its characteristic sheen. When the mill is running, you can hear the rhythmic thudding from afar – an impressive sound that takes you straight back to the industrial heyday of Northern Ireland.
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High above Cookstown, at the foot of the impressive Sperrin Mountains, you will find the Beaghmore Stone Circles. This is one of Ireland's most fascinating archaeological sites. Only rediscovered in the 1940s during peat cutting, the bog revealed a complex of seven stone circles, ten stone rows, and numerous Bronze Age burial mounds. For a cyclist, the road to Beaghmore is an experience in itself. The route takes you away from the inhabited world into a vast, quiet landscape where the wind has free rein. The complex itself exudes an enormous sense of peace and is the perfect place to get off your bike and soak up the prehistoric atmosphere.
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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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On this stretch of the Solar Walk in Davagh Forest near the OM Observatory a pretty stone bridge spans over the Davagh water creating a picturesque scene. It's also fascinating to note that this area is a Dark Sky Park, meaning it boasts exceptional dark night skies.
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It’s disappointing that the dirt trails through the forest are for mountain bikers only. As a walker, you have to stick to the tarmac roads - also used by the mountain bikes. It felt like there is an assumption that walking is more about an afternoon stroll with the kids and the dog. The forest is for the mountain bikers.
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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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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of landscapes can I expect to see while touring cycling around Drumard?
Touring cycling around Drumard offers a diverse range of landscapes. You'll encounter rolling hills and scenic river valleys, particularly along the Strule and Camowen rivers. The region is also home to the challenging terrain of the Sperrin Mountains, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, featuring sweeping moorland vistas and descents past forests. Additionally, some routes provide picturesque views of Lough Neagh, and you can explore extensive woodlands like Davagh Forest, Lough Bradan Forest, and Drum Manor Forest Park.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Drumard?
Yes, Drumard offers routes suitable for various skill levels. While the guide highlights some challenging options, you can find easier, family-friendly paths. For instance, the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort is an easy 12.9-mile trail. Flat, family-friendly riverside paths, such as those along the Strule and Camowen rivers in Omagh, also provide tranquil scenery and are great for leisurely rides.
What are the typical lengths and durations of touring cycling routes in Drumard?
The touring cycling routes around Drumard vary significantly in length and duration. You can find shorter, moderate rides like the Stone Bridge over Davagh Water – OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory loop from Fir Mountain, which is 6.9 miles (11.1 km) and takes about 1 hour. For more experienced cyclists, longer and more challenging routes such as The Sperrins loop from Cookstown cover 33.5 miles (53.9 km) and can take over 4 hours to complete.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available in Drumard?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Drumard are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. Examples include the popular Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, and the Stone Bridge over Davagh Water – OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory loop from Fir Mountain. These circular routes allow you to start and finish at the same point, making planning easier.
What historical sites or landmarks can I visit along the touring cycling routes?
Drumard's touring cycling routes often pass by or are close to significant historical sites. You can cycle past Tullyhogue Fort, an important ancient site, or explore the Drum Manor House Ruins. Other notable attractions in the wider region include Mountjoy Castle, Castle Caulfield Ruins, and the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles within the Sperrins, offering a blend of physical activity and cultural exploration.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural attractions to look out for?
Absolutely. The region is rich in natural beauty. The Sperrin Mountains offer sweeping moorland vistas, and routes near Lough Neagh provide serene waterscapes. Davagh Forest is not only known for its trails but also as an official Dark Skies location. You can also enjoy the tranquil setting of Lough Fea, nestled in wild mountain scenery, or the peaceful Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Drumard?
The best time for touring cycling in Drumard generally aligns with milder weather conditions. Spring (April-May) and autumn (September-October) offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery, with fewer crowds than peak summer. Summer (June-August) provides the longest daylight hours, though it can be busier. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out, as conditions in Northern Ireland can be variable.
What should I wear for touring cycling in Drumard?
Given the variable weather in Northern Ireland, it's advisable to dress in layers. Waterproof and windproof outer layers are recommended, even on seemingly clear days. Comfortable cycling shorts, a moisture-wicking base layer, and appropriate footwear are essential. Don't forget a helmet, gloves, and sunglasses. For longer rides, consider carrying extra layers and essentials like a repair kit and sufficient water.
Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments near the touring cycling routes?
While specific cafes directly on every route are not detailed, the towns and villages within and around County Tyrone, such as Cookstown and Omagh, offer various options for refreshments. Many routes start or pass through these areas, providing opportunities to refuel. An Creagán, a cultural and visitor center nestled in Tyrone's countryside, is also a good spot for a break and offers an immersive experience.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Drumard?
Cyclists often praise the diverse terrain and natural beauty of the Drumard area. The mix of rolling hills, challenging mountain climbs in the Sperrins, and peaceful forest trails caters to different preferences. The opportunity to combine physical activity with visits to historical sites like Tullyhogue Fort and the serene views of Lough Neagh are also frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects of touring cycling here.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Drumard area?
There are several touring cycling routes available in the Drumard area, with komoot featuring 4 distinct tours. These include options ranging from easy to difficult, ensuring there's a suitable ride for various experience levels. Over 100 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain of Drumard.
Most popular routes around Drumard
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