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United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Ards

Ballyrusley

The best cycling routes around Ballyrusley

5.0

(6)

100

riders

13

rides

Touring cycling around Ballyrusley offers routes through diverse landscapes on Northern Ireland's Ards Peninsula. The region features picturesque coastal scenery, tranquil lough shores, and rolling countryside. Cyclists can explore the shores of Strangford Lough and the Irish Sea, encountering varied terrain suitable for different skill levels. The area is characterized by its natural beauty and historical points of interest.

Best touring cycling routes around Ballyrusley

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Ards Peninsula half loop from Portaferry — Strangford…

Last updated: April 29, 2026

4

riders

#1.

Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop —Strangford & Lecale

29.2km

01:46

150m

150m

Embark on the Kilclief to Ardglass Harbour loop, a moderate touring cycling route that takes you along the scenic coast of Strangford & Lecale. This 18.1-mile (29.2 km) journey offers…

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Moderate

6

riders

Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Easy
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

Moderate
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Tips from the Community

Alice Baddeley
September 24, 2025, Burr Point – Easternmost Point of Ireland

Burr Point marks the most easterly point on the island of Ireland. The spot is marked by a coastal sculpture by artist Ned Jackson Smyth. You can rest up in the sheltered cove which has a well-kept toilet and changing facilities close by.

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sm milligan
November 26, 2023, Kirkistown Castle

Built in 1622 by Roland Savage. The tower has had several alterations over its past. The neo gothic style was introduced in the early 19th century.

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sm milligan
November 26, 2023, Corrog Wood

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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Quintin Castle is one of the few inhabited Anglo-Norman castles to be found in Ulster. The Castle was built in 1184 by John de Courcy, an Anglo-Norman Knight who had conquered substantial parts of Ireland from 1176. It is located in the Ards Peninsula, east of the village of Portaferry on the shore of the Irish Sea, The location hosts an unprecedented view of the surrounding landscape.

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sm milligan
September 24, 2023, Ardglass Harbour

Also known as Phennick Cove Marina, in Ardglass, County Down, one of three major fishing ports in Northern Ireland. Ardglass is now one of the safest small harbours on the east coast of Ireland, following improvements made in recent years.

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sm milligan
September 24, 2023, Ballyhornan Beach

Ballyhornan is sandy beach surrounded by cliffs. Guns Island lies just in the bay. On the horizon it is possible to see the Isle of Man.

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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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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballyrusley?

There are 14 touring cycling routes around Ballyrusley, offering a variety of experiences. These include 7 easy routes and 7 moderate routes, ensuring options for different skill levels.

What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling routes in Ballyrusley?

The touring cycling routes in Ballyrusley are primarily easy to moderate. You'll find 7 easy routes and 7 moderate routes, making the area accessible for a wide range of cyclists. There are no difficult routes listed in the immediate area.

Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Ballyrusley?

Yes, Ballyrusley offers several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. An excellent option is the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop, which is 9.8 miles (15.7 km) long and follows the coastline, providing scenic views of Strangford Lough and Quintin Castle.

What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling around Ballyrusley?

While cycling around Ballyrusley, you can expect diverse and picturesque landscapes. Routes often feature tranquil lough shores, rolling countryside, and stunning coastal scenery along both Strangford Lough and the Irish Sea. On clear days, you might even catch views of the Isle of Man.

Are there any notable landmarks or attractions along the touring cycling routes?

Yes, the area around Ballyrusley is rich with natural beauty and historical sites. You can explore the shores of Strangford Lough, visit the historic Castle Ward Tower (a filming location), or see Audley's Castle. The Ballyquintin Point & Nature Reserve at the southern tip of the Ards Peninsula offers breathtaking coastal scenery and panoramic views.

Can I find circular touring cycling routes in the Ballyrusley area?

Yes, many touring cycling routes in Ballyrusley are circular, allowing you to start and end in the same location. Examples include the Portaferry to Quintin Castle loop and the Portaferry to Kirkistown Castle loop, which take you through coastal and countryside areas.

What do other touring cyclists say about their experience in Ballyrusley?

The touring cycling routes around Ballyrusley are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 7 reviews. Cyclists often praise the extensive views across the Ards Peninsula and the tranquil lough shores. Over 160 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the varied terrain here.

What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ballyrusley?

The summer months, particularly June and July, are very popular for cycling in the Portaferry area due to favorable weather. However, the region's natural beauty, including spring flowers like bluebells in Nugent's Wood and red squirrel sightings from September to November, means cycling can be enjoyable across multiple seasons.

Are there options for parking near the touring cycling routes in Ballyrusley?

Yes, parking is available in the vicinity of Ballyrusley's cycling routes. For instance, Castle Ward Shore Car Park is a highlight that can serve as a starting point for some routes. Portaferry village itself also offers parking facilities.

Are there any cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?

Portaferry village, a central hub for many routes, offers amenities including cafes and pubs. As you cycle through other villages and towns on the Ards Peninsula, you will find additional options for refreshments and breaks.

Are there any routes that offer views of the Irish Sea?

Yes, some routes, particularly those that venture towards the eastern side of the Ards Peninsula, offer views of the Irish Sea. A circular route from Portaferry can connect the calm shores of Strangford Lough with the more exposed beaches of the Irish Sea, potentially offering views of the Isle of Man on a clear day.

Can I combine cycling with exploring local villages and towns?

Absolutely. Many routes are designed to pass through or near charming villages. For example, a route from Portaferry can lead you to the National Trust village of Kearney, known for its beautifully preserved whitewashed cottages. Portaferry itself is a historic and picturesque village with attractions like Portaferry Castle and Exploris Aquarium.

Is it possible to see wildlife while touring cycling in Ballyrusley?

Yes, the region is rich in wildlife. Strangford Lough is a haven for diverse marine life, seabirds, seals, and even dolphins. In Nugent's Wood near Portaferry, you might spot red squirrels, especially between September and November.

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