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United Kingdom
Northern Ireland
Ards

Orlock

The best cycling routes around Orlock

4.4

(16)

337

riders

42

rides

Touring cycling routes around Orlock traverse the coastal landscapes of the Ards Peninsula and the shores of Strangford Lough. The region features a mix of flat coastal paths and gently rolling terrain, suitable for various cycling abilities. Routes often connect towns like Bangor and Donaghadee, offering views of the Irish Sea and inland loughs.

Best touring cycling routes around Orlock

  • The most popular touring cycling route is Ards Peninsula Complete loop from Bangor — Strangford & Lecale, a 66.0…

Last updated: June 28, 2026

14

riders

#1.

Ards Peninsula Complete loop from Bangor — Strangford & Lecale

106km

06:18

470m

470m

Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.

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Hard

3.0

(1)

1

riders

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

Moderate
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5.0

(1)

1

riders

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

Easy

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

Easy

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

Moderate
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Popular around Orlock

Road Cycling Routes around Orlock

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Hiking around Orlock

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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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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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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From Donaghadee visitors can enjoy spectacular views across the Irish Sea, where on a clear day you can see all the way to Scotland, only 20 miles away by sea. It was the province’s principle port before Belfast developed. The Harbour was built in 1820's to the design of John Rennie and is part built of limestone from Wales known as "Anglesea marble". On the harbour is Donaghadee's impressive lighthouse, which was built in 1836 and was the first lighthouse in Ireland to be lit by electricity. Sit and rest in the harbour with a bag of chips from Rainy's on the High Street ( on the hill as you roll in to town from Millisle ) Best fryers in the town. Perfect recovery after a long cycle, Irelands oldest Pub - Grace Neills, is only around the corner.

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Voted as one of the top ten gardens in the world, Mount Stewart reflects a rich tapestry of design and planting artistry bearing the hallmark of its creator. Edith, Lady Londonderry’s passion for bold planting schemes coupled with the mild climate of Strangford Lough allows rare and tender plants from across the globe to thrive in this celebrated garden. Each of the formal gardens exudes a distinct character and appeal. Mount Stewart is a delight for the senses with a series of formal themed garden compartments around the house including The Italian, Spanish, Mairi and Shamrock Garden.

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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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Ballycopeland Windmill is the only remaining working windmill in East Down. It was built in the late 18th or early 19th century and was worked until the First World War when it fell into disrepair. It was gradually restored between 1950 and 1978 to full working order.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How many touring cycling routes are available around Orlock?

There are over 40 touring cycling routes in the Orlock area, offering a diverse range of options for cyclists. These include 15 easy routes, 20 moderate routes, and 9 more challenging ones.

What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Orlock?

Touring cycling routes around Orlock primarily traverse the coastal landscapes of the Ards Peninsula and the shores of Strangford Lough. You can expect a mix of flat coastal paths and gently rolling terrain, with some routes featuring climbs that offer elevated perspectives, such as the ascent to Helen's Tower.

Are there any circular touring cycling routes around Orlock?

Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Orlock are circular. Popular options include the Ards Peninsula Complete loop from Bangor, the Helen's Tower loop from Bangor, and the Donaghadee from Bangor loop. These loops allow you to start and finish at the same point, making logistics easier.

What are some family-friendly cycling options in Orlock?

For families looking for easier rides, routes like the Donaghadee from Bangor loop and the Strangford Lough Shore loop from Donaghadee are classified as easy. These routes typically feature flatter terrain and are shorter in distance, making them suitable for various cycling abilities.

What can I see along the touring cycling routes in Orlock?

The touring cycling routes in Orlock offer views of the Irish Sea and inland loughs, connecting coastal towns like Bangor and Donaghadee. Along the way, you can explore various attractions such as Grey Point Fort, the historic Ballycopeland Windmill, and the prominent Helen's Tower. Scenic spots like Helen's Bay Beach and Groomsport Beach also provide picturesque stops.

Are there options for longer touring cycling routes in the Orlock area?

Yes, for those seeking longer rides, the Ards Peninsula Complete loop from Bangor — Strangford & Lecale is a significant option. This difficult route spans over 66 miles (106 km) and offers extensive coastal views, covering a substantial portion of the Ards Peninsula.

What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Orlock?

The Orlock area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 14 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which includes coastal paths and lough shores, and the well-maintained network of routes suitable for different ability levels.

Is there parking available for cyclists near the touring routes in Orlock?

While specific parking locations are not detailed for every route, towns like Bangor and Donaghadee, which serve as common starting points for many routes, typically offer public parking facilities. It's advisable to check local parking options in these towns before your ride.

Can I reach touring cycling routes in Orlock by public transport?

The region around Orlock, including towns like Bangor and Donaghadee, is generally accessible by public transport in Northern Ireland. Train services connect Bangor to Belfast, and local bus services operate within the Ards Peninsula. Cyclists should check specific public transport schedules and bicycle carriage policies for their planned route.

Are there cafes or pubs along the touring cycling routes in Orlock?

Many touring cycling routes in Orlock connect or pass through coastal towns such as Bangor and Donaghadee. These towns offer various amenities, including cafes, pubs, and other establishments where cyclists can stop for refreshments or a meal. The routes are designed to integrate with local communities.

What is the best season for touring cycling in Orlock?

The best time for touring cycling in County Down, Northern Ireland, generally spans from spring through early autumn (April to September). During these months, the weather is typically milder, with less rain and longer daylight hours, making for more enjoyable cycling conditions along the coast and lough shores.

Are there any moderate touring cycling routes in Orlock?

Yes, there are 20 moderate touring cycling routes in Orlock. A popular choice is the Helen's Tower loop from Bangor, which is 20.2 miles (32.5 km) long and includes a climb to Helen's Tower, offering elevated views of the surrounding countryside.

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