4.9
(7)
165
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Touring cycling around Craignasasonagh offers accessible trails and scenic natural features. The region is characterized by its riverine landscapes, notably along the Lagan Towpath, which provides a peaceful setting for bike rides. Expansive green spaces, such as Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, contribute to the area's appeal for outdoor recreation. These features create a varied environment suitable for different touring cycling experiences.
Last updated: June 27, 2026
2
riders
25.5km
01:31
170m
170m
Cycle the moderate 15.9-mile (25.5 km) Strangford Lough Cycle Trail: Ballygowan Loop for scenic views and charming coastal towns.
1
riders
56.7km
03:26
440m
440m
Embark on the Strangford Lough Cycle Trail, a moderate touring bicycle route that guides you through the scenic Strangford & Lecale Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. This journey spans 35.2…

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1
riders
34.6km
02:03
220m
220m
The Strangford Lough Cycle Trail offers a moderate touring bicycle experience, covering 21.5 miles (34.6 km) with an elevation gain of 733 feet (224 metres). You can expect to complete…
33.5km
02:02
290m
290m
Embark on the Saintfield to Giant's Ring loop, a moderate touring bicycle route spanning 20.8 miles (33.5 km) with an elevation gain of 960 feet (293 metres). You can expect…
40.3km
02:30
370m
370m
Cycle the moderate 25.0-mile Moneyreagh to Drumbo loop through scenic countryside, gaining 1220 feet in 2 hours and 29 minutes.
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Cycle and pedestrian bridge over the Lagan
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The bridge is named after Captain John Shaw of Oliver Cromwell's army, who built an oak bridge here in 1655. A stone bridge was built by Thomas Burgh in 1691, although this was destroyed by flooding, which led to it being replaced by the present bridge in 1709.
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The facility is of impressive size.
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The structure consists of a circular earthen ring with a diameter of 180 m and an area of 28,000 square meters, surrounded by an earthen rampart 3.5 m high. At least three of the five irregularly distributed gaps in the ring are intentional and possibly original. East of the center of the ring is a small passage grave with a westward-facing entrance.
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The truncated round tower rises from afar, its massive structure still preserved up to 10.7 metres. Originally, the tower served not only as a spiritual place, but also offered a strategic view over the valley - a real advantage for spotting any Viking raids early on. The history of the nearby monastery, which is associated with St. Mochumma, is also interesting. It is said that the site was looted in 1130 and that the remains of a church were discovered near the tower as late as the 18th century. The beam holes inside suggest that the six floors were made of wood and offered a certain level of comfort.
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As you get closer, the mystical aura of the place unfolds, with its mighty, almost circular earthen wall, which measures over 180 meters in diameter and dominates the view over the surrounding plateau. This ancient henge complex is one of the largest and best-preserved monuments of its kind in Ireland - hard to miss when you get close to Shaw's Bridge. In the center of the ring, a megalithic tomb awaits you, which tells its own story with its five supporting stones and a mighty capstone. You can literally feel the thousands of years that have passed here since ceremonies and gatherings probably took place at this place. It is impressive how the Giant's Ring has survived over time, while the wooden structures of the Ballynahatty settlements are long gone.
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The old stone bridge stretches majestically over the still water, which is perfectly reflected and creates a calm, almost magical atmosphere. The surrounding nature is inviting and offers a wonderful backdrop with green meadows and shady paths. A light wind blows through the trees and the sounds of nature accompany you with every pedal stroke.
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Craignasasonagh offers a wide selection of touring cycling routes, with over 35 different options to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy rides to more challenging adventures.
Yes, Craignasasonagh has several easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. There are 3 routes specifically categorized as easy, providing a gentle introduction to the region's scenic paths. The Strangford Lough Cycle Trail: Ballygowan Loop is a moderate option that many families enjoy due to its manageable distance and beautiful views.
The touring cycling routes in Craignasasonagh primarily feature accessible trails and scenic natural features. You'll find peaceful riverine landscapes, notably along the Lagan Towpath, which offers tranquil rides. The area also includes expansive green spaces like Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park, providing varied environments for cycling.
For those seeking a greater challenge, Craignasasonagh offers 7 difficult touring cycling routes. One such route is the Whiterock Harbour – Sketrick Castle Ruins loop from Carryduff, which spans nearly 70 km and involves significant elevation changes, making it suitable for experienced cyclists.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Craignasasonagh are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the popular Strangford Lough Cycle Trail: Ballygowan Loop and the Saintfield to Giant's Ring loop, both offering diverse scenery.
Cycling in Craignasasonagh allows you to discover several interesting sights. You might pass by historical sites like Shaw's Bridge or Kilmood Church. The Lagan Towpath itself is a major natural feature, and you can also find viewpoints such as the Sir Thomas and Lady Dixon Park Rose Garden and Stone Monoliths.
Yes, the Lagan Towpath is a prominent feature in Craignasasonagh and forms part of National Cycle Route 9. Many routes in the area incorporate sections of this path, providing a peaceful setting to enjoy the tranquil river and its surroundings. While specific routes are not listed, you can expect to find options that utilize this scenic pathway.
The touring cycling routes in Craignasasonagh are highly regarded by the komoot community, with an average rating of 4.8 stars from 5 reviews. Over 100 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the varied terrain and the peaceful, scenic nature of the trails, especially along the riverine paths.
While specific seasonal recommendations are not provided, the tranquil river and tree reflections along the Lagan Towpath can create a mystical atmosphere on overcast days, suggesting that even less sunny weather can offer a unique cycling experience. Generally, spring and autumn offer pleasant temperatures and beautiful scenery for touring cycling.
Absolutely. The region is known for its proximity to Strangford Lough, and several routes offer stunning views of the lough and its surrounding countryside. The Strangford Lough Cycle Trail is a prime example, following the scenic shores and providing a tranquil cycling experience.
While specific cafes and pubs are not detailed for every route, the presence of the Lock Keeper's Cottage and Lock Keeper's Inn Coffee Shop along the Lagan Towpath suggests that refreshment stops are available in key areas. Many routes pass through or near towns where you can find local amenities.
For an extended cycling adventure, consider routes like the Sketrick Castle – Whiterock Harbour loop from Ballygowan. This route covers over 50 km and typically takes around 3 hours to complete, offering a substantial ride through varied landscapes.


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