The best cycling routes around Ballymullan
4.3
(66)
1,280
riders
102
rides
Touring cycling around Ballymullan offers access to diverse landscapes and established cycling paths. The area features natural attractions such as Crawfordsburn Country Park with its glen and river, and Lagan Meadows Nature Reserve known for varied wildlife habitats. Riverside and woodland scenery is prominent along routes like the Lagan Towpath, which forms part of National Cycle Route 9. Additionally, Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park provides 130 acres of woodlands, meadows, and riverside fields for exploration.
Best touring cycling routes…
Last updated: July 2, 2026
1
riders
33.6km
02:16
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4.0
(2)
33
riders
64.1km
03:46
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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32
riders
37.3km
02:17
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
16
riders
33.3km
01:59
170m
170m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
72.3km
04:18
370m
370m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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Great food selection, delicious cakes, highly recommended
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Cafe is usually open 10-4pm. Toilets, cafe, indoor and outdoor seating and an educational area for visitors telling you all about the country park. Water bowls and an outdoor tap to refill for dogs. Lots of parking around the cafe.
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Decent climb to the top of Scrabo Hill. If you fancy a challenge keep on going to the tower, enjoying the interest of locals and tourists alike as you cycle on past. Your reward is stunning views overlooking Strangford Lough and the whole of North Down. Sunsets pretty special too. - The tower, which was built in 1857, is one of Northern Ireland’s best known landmarks and the views from the top are spectacular. Inside the tower you can see an exhibition and short video detailing its history. There are plenty of paths through the fine beech woodlands of Killynether Wood and around the disused quarries allowing visitors many opportunities to enjoy the quiet and peaceful countryside.
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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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Always worth the ascent. If only for the view towards Sliev Croob and the Mournes. Beautiful patch work of swollen hills, cut by colourful fields, that meander all the way to the shore of Strangford Lough below. There are several interesting woodland gravel trails in the woods, connecting to Scrabo, and Ards. Twilight is magic up here. Smooth tarmac Decent down to Ards via Scrabo Road is a joy, with the tower on your left, and the sprawling Lough, and Newtownards to your right.
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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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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 Ballymullan?
There are over 100 touring cycling routes around Ballymullan, offering a wide variety of options for different skill levels and preferences. The komoot community has explored these routes extensively, with over 1500 touring cyclists using komoot to discover the area.
Are there easy or beginner-friendly touring cycling routes in Ballymullan?
Yes, Ballymullan offers a good selection of routes suitable for beginners and those looking for an easier ride. There are 25 easy touring cycling routes available, allowing you to enjoy the scenic landscapes at a relaxed pace.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling around Ballymullan?
Ballymullan's touring cycling routes feature diverse landscapes, including picturesque riverside paths, tranquil woodlands, and scenic coastal stretches. You'll find natural attractions like Crawfordsburn Country Park with its glen and river, and the peaceful Lagan Meadows Nature Reserve, known for its varied wildlife. Routes often provide views towards landmarks like Scrabo Tower and the surrounding countryside.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Ballymullan area?
Many of the touring cycling routes around Ballymullan are designed as loops, offering convenient circular journeys. For example, the Scrabo Tower loop from Seahill is a popular circular route that takes you through varied scenery.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can visit along the cycling routes?
While cycling around Ballymullan, you can explore several interesting landmarks and attractions. Consider visiting historical sites like Grey Point Fort or Helen's Tower. Coastal routes might lead you past Helen's Bay Beach, offering a chance to enjoy the seaside. The area also features the expansive Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, with its diverse landscapes including formal gardens and woodlands.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Ballymullan?
The touring cycling routes in Ballymullan are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from over 70 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse scenery, from coastal views to tranquil woodlands, and the well-maintained paths that make for an enjoyable experience.
Are there any longer or more challenging touring cycling routes in Ballymullan?
Yes, for those seeking a greater challenge, Ballymullan offers 25 difficult touring cycling routes. Additionally, there are 63 moderate routes that provide a good balance of distance and elevation. An example of a longer route is the Donaghadee Lighthouse – Ballycopeland Windmill loop from Bangor West, which covers over 72 km.
Is the Lagan Towpath accessible from Ballymullan, and is it suitable for touring cycling?
Yes, the Lagan Towpath is a significant highlight for touring cyclists in the area. It's a highly popular and traffic-free route, forming part of the Ulster Way and National Cycle Route 9. This path provides a serene experience with the river flowing alongside and is ideal for relaxed bike rides, making it very suitable for touring cycling.
What is the typical duration for touring cycling routes around Ballymullan?
The duration of touring cycling routes around Ballymullan varies significantly depending on the route's length and your pace. For instance, the Groomsport Beach – Donaghadee Lighthouse loop from Helen's Bay typically takes around 2 hours 16 minutes, while the longer Ballycopeland Windmill – Groomsport Beach loop from Bangor West can take over 3 hours 45 minutes.
Are there routes that combine coastal scenery with historical sites?
Absolutely. Many routes in the Ballymullan area offer a blend of stunning coastal views and historical interest. The Ballycopeland Windmill – Groomsport Beach loop from Bangor West is a great example, connecting picturesque coastal areas with the historic Ballycopeland Windmill.
Can I find routes that pass through parks or nature reserves?
Yes, the region around Ballymullan is rich in natural beauty and parks. Routes often pass through or near areas like Crawfordsburn Country Park and Lagan Meadows Nature Reserve, offering opportunities to enjoy varied wildlife habitats and tranquil natural settings. Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park also provides 130 acres of diverse landscapes for exploration.
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