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Northern Ireland
North Down

Ballymagee

The best cycling routes around Ballymagee

4.5

(21)

457

riders

61

rides

Touring cycling around Ballymagee, located within the Ards and North Down borough, offers routes through varied landscapes. The region is characterized by captivating coastlines, the shores of Strangford Lough, and the Ards Peninsula. These areas feature diverse natural landscapes, including minor roads along the lough and coastal paths, providing a range of cycling experiences.

Best touring cycling routes around Ballymagee

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

Last updated: June 20, 2026

14

riders

#1.

Ards Peninsula Complete loop from Bangor — Strangford & Lecale

106km

06:18

470m

470m

Embark on the Ards Peninsula Complete loop from Bangor, a challenging touring bicycle ride that takes you along Northern Ireland's eastern coast. This difficult route spans 66.0 miles (106.3 km)…

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Hard

3.0

(1)

1

riders

This 20.2-mile touring cycling loop from Bangor to Helen's Tower is rated moderate, offering varied terrain and scenic views.

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

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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Popular around Ballymagee

Road Cycling Routes around Ballymagee

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Hiking around Ballymagee

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

What are the general characteristics of touring cycling routes around Ballymagee?

Touring cycling around Ballymagee, situated within the Ards and North Down borough, offers a diverse range of routes. You can expect captivating coastlines, scenic paths along the shores of Strangford Lough, and journeys across the Ards Peninsula. The area features varied natural landscapes, from minor roads to coastal paths, catering to different cycling preferences.

What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes in the area?

The routes around Ballymagee cater to various skill levels. There are over 15 easy routes, more than 35 moderate routes, and over 10 difficult routes available. This variety ensures options for beginners looking for a relaxed ride and experienced cyclists seeking a challenge.

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

Yes, several routes pass by interesting landmarks and natural features. For instance, the Helen's Tower loop from Bangor takes you past the historic Helen's Tower. You might also encounter the distinctive Ballycopeland Windmill on routes like the Ballycopeland Windmill – Groomsport Beach loop from Bangor. The region itself is rich in natural beauty, including the internationally significant Strangford Lough and various award-winning beaches.

Which routes offer coastal views or pass by beaches?

Many routes in the Ballymagee area feature stunning coastal scenery. The Ards Peninsula Complete loop from Bangor — Strangford & Lecale explores the diverse coastal and loughside scenery of the Ards Peninsula. The Donaghadee from Bangor loop also leads through coastal areas. You can also find routes that pass by beaches such as Groomsport, Millisle, Ballywalter South, and Cloughey.

Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Ballymagee?

Yes, there are several easy routes suitable for families. The region's network includes options like the Comber Greenway, a 7-mile traffic-free section of the National Cycle Network, which provides a leisurely and safe cycling experience. Look for routes marked as 'easy' on komoot for suitable family outings.

Can I find routes with significant elevation gain for a more challenging ride?

For cyclists seeking more challenging rides with notable elevation gain, the Ards Peninsula Complete loop from Bangor — Strangford & Lecale is a good option, featuring over 470 meters of ascent. Other 'difficult' graded routes will also offer more significant climbs.

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

The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.5 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the captivating coastlines, the serene shores of Strangford Lough, and the diverse landscapes of the Ards Peninsula, which offer a variety of scenic experiences.

Are there circular touring cycling routes available?

Yes, many touring cycling routes around Ballymagee are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Ards Peninsula Complete loop from Bangor — Strangford & Lecale, Helen's Tower loop from Bangor, and the Donaghadee from Bangor loop.

Is it possible to access the touring cycling routes using public transport?

Many routes start from Bangor, which is well-connected by public transport. The Comber Greenway, for example, is part of the National Cycle Network and connects Belfast to Comber, making it accessible via public transport links to these towns. This allows for convenient access to various starting points for your cycling adventures.

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

The spring, summer, and early autumn months generally offer the most pleasant weather for touring cycling in Ballymagee. During these seasons, you can expect milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, ideal for enjoying the coastal and inland routes. Clear days may even offer views of the Isle of Man.

Are there any off-road cycling opportunities in the wider Ards and North Down area?

While this guide focuses on touring cycling, the broader Ards and North Down area does offer off-road opportunities. Forest parks and additional trails are available for those preferring a more rugged experience. Development plans are also underway for a new Bangor Cycle Park, which will include BMX racing tracks, pump tracks, and cross-country mountain bike trails.

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