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Mountain biking around Ballydavey offers a mix of coastal routes, lakeside paths, and trails that explore the local countryside. The region features varied terrain, from flat sections along the coast to gentle ascents around points of interest like Helen's Tower. Riders can expect to encounter a blend of natural landscapes and established bike paths.
Last updated: June 25, 2026
28.9km
02:07
270m
270m
This moderate 18.0-mile mountain biking loop combines scenic coastal paths with off-road trails through Clandeboye Estate to Helen's Tower.
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36.5km
02:24
350m
350m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required. Suitable for all skill levels.

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2
riders
Easy mountain bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Beautiful beach to stop for kids to play in the sand, or to get in for a dip
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A pathway along the lake allows for closer inspection of the birds. For example, swans, mallards, little grebe, moorhens, and coots are usually present. There is an observation area to view the birds and other wildlife. Parking is available. In July 2000, Kiltonga Nature Reserve became the first site in the UK to be awarded BT Millennium Miles status.
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Helen's Bay Beach is one of two excellent beaches found in Crawfordsburn Country Park. These beautiful sandy beaches are by far the best within the Belfast area and as such are exceptionally popular and well used. Helen's Bay Beach is gently shelving and has excellent water quality making it ideal for bathing. The country park provides an excellent back drop to the beach, with wooded headlands, meadows, quality walks and good facilities. There are disabled toilets and disabled parking a short distance from the beach. A path suitable for wheelchair users leads from the car park to a path running adjacent to it. Nearby Crawfordsburn Country Park has a Cafe / Restaurant, Car Parking, Picnic Sites,Toilets, and a Visitor Centre.
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Traffic free and relaxing way to get into the big city!
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This impressive fort was built in the 20th century and is one of the best preserved forts in the British Isles! It played a huge role in the defenses of Belfast during WW1 & WW2.
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Here a rocky outcrop provides some excellent views east toward Crawfordsburn Country Park and west toward Helen's Bay Beach, and, on a clear day, all the way to Belfast.
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Beautiful sandy inlet on the shores of Crawfordsburn Country Park. You can enjoy some spectacular scenery and views toward Belfast Lough as well as a peek at the magnificent Crawfordsburn House which stands overlooking the sea.
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19th-century folly and lookout tower near Bangor. Named after the 5th Baron's mother, Helen. He intended it as a shrine for poems - Tennyson's Helen's Tower is the best known of them. Well worth a stop off to explore the architecture.
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The mountain bike trails around Ballydavey offer a mix of difficulties, with options suitable for both beginners and those looking for a moderate challenge. You'll find easy routes like the Kiltonga Nature Reserve Lake loop, as well as moderate trails that combine coastal sections with inland climbs.
Yes, Ballydavey has family-friendly mountain bike options, particularly the easier routes. The Kiltonga Nature Reserve Lake – Bike Path to Belfast loop is a great choice, offering a relatively flat and scenic ride through a nature reserve, suitable for various skill levels.
Trail durations vary depending on the route and your pace. For example, the Mountainbike loop from Conlig is a shorter ride, taking around 25-30 minutes. Longer routes, such as the Crawfordsburn Beach – Helen's Bay Beach loop, can take approximately 2 hours 25 minutes.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Ballydavey are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the North Down Coastal Path and Helen's Tower Loop and the Mountainbike loop from Conlig.
The trails offer diverse scenery, from coastal vistas along the North Down Coastal Path to tranquil lakeside views at Kiltonga Nature Reserve. Routes like the Crawfordsburn Beach – Helen's Bay Beach loop provide expansive views of the coastline and beaches.
While riding, you might pass by points of interest like Helen's Tower, which is featured on the North Down Coastal Path and Helen's Tower Loop. Further afield, you can explore attractions such as the Albert Memorial Clock or Titanic Belfast, which are accessible from some routes that extend towards Belfast.
Ballydavey's coastal and inland trails can be enjoyed throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter riding is possible, be prepared for potentially wet and muddy conditions, especially on unpaved sections.
There are at least 4 distinct mountain bike trails detailed around Ballydavey, offering a variety of experiences from coastal rides to nature reserve paths. These include both easy and moderate options.
Mountain bikers using komoot often appreciate the varied terrain, which includes coastal paths, nature reserves, and established bike paths. The region's mix of natural landscapes and well-maintained routes provides enjoyable experiences for different skill levels.
While specific cafes directly on the trails are not listed, the routes often pass through or near towns and villages like Bangor, where you can find various amenities, including cafes and restaurants, to refuel after your ride.
The terrain around Ballydavey is quite varied. You'll encounter flat sections along the coast, gentle ascents around landmarks like Helen's Tower, and paths through nature reserves. Expect a mix of paved bike paths and natural, unpaved trails.


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