The best road cycling routes around Cunningburn
4.5
(23)
1,239
riders
89
rides
Road cycling routes around Cunningburn are characterized by their proximity to Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula, offering a mix of coastal scenery and rural landscapes. The terrain primarily consists of quiet country roads and rolling farmland, with dedicated cycling paths like the Comber Greenway providing traffic-free sections. Elevations are generally moderate, making the area accessible for various cycling abilities. This region provides varied road cycling terrain, from flat stretches along the lough to gentle undulations across the peninsula.
Best…
Last updated: July 9, 2026
20
riders
82.2km
03:34
550m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
44
riders
68.1km
02:59
470m
470m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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44
riders
62.0km
02:50
460m
460m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
32
riders
55.7km
02:23
300m
300m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
28
riders
87.3km
03:42
530m
530m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Cunningburn
Tips from the Community
Carrowdore Castle Gate is one of the original 19th-century entrance lodges to the Carrowdore Castle estate in County Down. Built in a Gothic style, it features a castellated parapet and turret-like details that echo the look of the main house. Today it stands as one of the most distinctive remnants of the castle complex, marking the historic gateway to the estate.
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Simple sandwiches, paninies and drinks. outdoor seating or in a covered space.
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Bike parking, nice coffee and eats, friendly staff, nice view of the lough
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Sketrick Castkle is a historic landmark situated on Sketrick Island near Whiterock. The castle dates back to the 12th century and the grounds are free to explore.
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This large tower house was built in the mid 15th century and was actively involved in warfare during the 16th century. It would have originally been four storeys high with a boat bay and subterranean passage. There were four chambers at ground level, the largest had a vault built on wicker centring and two ovens. The small unlighted room could have been a lock up or treasury. The tower-house was relatively complete until half of it collapsed in a storm in 1896. Part of the bawn wall survives to the north and east of the castle.
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The house was built in 1818, set in parkland with shelter from woodland trees. There are fine exotic trees and cultivated ornamental gardens sloping gently to a lake. The interior is still largely intact, though some rooms to the rear of the house have been altered in recent times The three-storey tower to the south has a Jacobean-Gothic feel and appears to be largely intact; whilst the similar (but much smaller) three-storey gazebo to the east of the house is now in a ruinous condition. About 1992 a new residence was built a short distance from the original castle. Carrowdore Castle estate is now in private residence.
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Movilla was associated with Saint Finian in the 6th-century. As with many early monasteries, it was plundered by Vikings in the 9th century, but was refounded as an Augustinian abbey in the Norman 12th century and survived until the suppression of religious houses in the 1540s. It has the best collection of 13th Century coffin lids with foliate crosses in the Province. These are built into the inside north wall. Only one stone from the Pre-Norman period survives; it is marked with “Or do Dertrend”, “pray for Dertrend”. Later structures include the ruins of a 13th century church which was rebuilt in the 15th-century. A really fascinating stop.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Cunningburn?
There are nearly 100 road cycling routes around Cunningburn, offering a diverse range of experiences. These routes are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 20 reviews.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in Cunningburn?
Road cycling routes around Cunningburn feature a mix of quiet country roads, rolling farmland, and dedicated cycling paths. You'll find flat stretches along Strangford Lough, gentle undulations across the Ards Peninsula, and traffic-free sections like the Comber Greenway. The elevation is generally moderate, making the area accessible for various cycling abilities.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Cunningburn?
Yes, Cunningburn offers 27 easy road cycling routes, many of which are suitable for beginners or families. The Comber Greenway, for instance, provides a smooth, relatively flat, and traffic-free experience, perfect for a relaxed ride.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while cycling around Cunningburn?
While cycling around Cunningburn, you can enjoy stunning views of Strangford Lough, the largest sea lough in the British Isles. Routes often pass by historical sites such as Sketrick Castle and the ancient Nendrum Monastery Ruins, which also offer panoramic views of the lough. You might also spot the distinctive Scrabo Tower in the distance.
Are there any historical sites along the cycling routes in Cunningburn?
Absolutely. Many routes incorporate historical sites. For example, the Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop – Sketrick Castle loop from Newtownards takes you past Sketrick Castle. Other notable sites in the area include Nendrum Monastery Ruins and Ballycopeland Windmill.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in the Cunningburn area?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Cunningburn are circular. A popular option is the Strangford Loagh loop from Newtownards - Strangford & Lecale, which is an 82.2 km (51.1 miles) trail encompassing quiet country roads and views of Strangford Lough.
Can I find cafes or pubs along the road cycling routes in Cunningburn?
Yes, several routes pass by charming towns and villages where you can find cafes and pubs. The Kilmood Church – Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop loop from Ballywalter, for instance, includes a stop at Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop, a popular spot for cyclists.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Cunningburn?
Cunningburn offers enjoyable road cycling throughout much of the year. Spring and summer provide pleasant weather for exploring the coastal scenery and rural landscapes. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, while milder winter days can still be suitable for a ride, especially on the less exposed routes.
Are there any routes that offer views of the Ards Peninsula?
Many routes in the Cunningburn area extend along the Ards Peninsula, providing diverse scenery and coastal views. The Kilmood Church – Daft Eddy's Coffee Shop loop from Ballywalter is a moderate 69.2 km (43.0 miles) path that features varied terrain through the Ards Peninsula.
Where can I park my car when starting a road cycling route in Cunningburn?
Parking is available at various points around Cunningburn, particularly in towns like Newtownards and Comber, which serve as common starting points for routes. For routes accessing the Comber Greenway, there are designated parking areas in Comber. If you're exploring areas near Sketrick Castle, parking is often available on Sketrick Island.
Is it possible to combine road cycling with public transport in Cunningburn?
While specific public transport options for carrying bikes can vary, the region's proximity to towns like Newtownards and Comber, which are served by Translink buses, may offer possibilities. It's advisable to check Translink's policies regarding bikes on buses for the most up-to-date information.
What is the most popular road cycling route in the Cunningburn area?
The most popular road cycling route is the Strangford Loagh loop from Newtownards - Strangford & Lecale. This 82.2 km (51.1 miles) trail takes approximately 3 hours 34 minutes to complete and offers scenic views of Strangford Lough along quiet country roads.
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