The best cycling routes around Drumnaglogh
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Touring cycling routes around Drumnaglogh are primarily centered around the Newry Canal Way, offering a mostly traffic-free and flat path. The region features tranquil green landscapes, quiet countryside, and gentle rolling hills. Cyclists can expect to traverse lush meadows and areas alongside the historic canal, which meanders through Counties Down and Armagh. This area provides accessible routes suitable for various cycling abilities.
Best touring cycling routes around Drumnaglogh
- The most popular touring cycling route is Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
20.8km
01:15
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
53.9km
04:03
560m
560m
This difficult 33.5-mile touring cycling loop from Cookstown offers challenging climbs and stunning Sperrins scenery, including ancient ston
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72.0km
04:22
540m
530m
This difficult 44.7-mile touring bicycle loop from Cookstown offers 1756 feet of elevation gain around Lough Neagh, taking about 4 hours 22
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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45.2km
02:43
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
The Maghery Footbridge on the edge of Lough Neagh offers a small moment of peace in the midst of the expansive landscape. As you cross the bridge, your gaze glides over the gentle waters of the largest lake in the British Isles. In good weather, the clouds are impressively reflected on the surface of the water, making the scene look almost like a painting. Even when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a special atmosphere that invites you to linger rather than to quickly pass by. The paths around the bridge are mostly flat, but you should be prepared for occasional sections with unpaved surfaces. This could be a bit slippery, especially in wet weather, but this is not a problem. The connection to the National Cycle Network, Route 94, also offers you many other opportunities to explore the area. A little tip: Maghery itself does not have much to offer apart from the bridge, but a short detour to the nearby Oxford Island nature reserve is definitely worth it. This means you can easily combine a visit to the bridge with a larger circular tour.
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On this stretch of the Solar Walk in Davagh Forest near the OM Observatory a pretty stone bridge spans over the Davagh water creating a picturesque scene. It's also fascinating to note that this area is a Dark Sky Park, meaning it boasts exceptional dark night skies.
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It’s disappointing that the dirt trails through the forest are for mountain bikers only. As a walker, you have to stick to the tarmac roads - also used by the mountain bikes. It felt like there is an assumption that walking is more about an afternoon stroll with the kids and the dog. The forest is for the mountain bikers.
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Beaghmore (Bheitheach Mhór), meaning ‘big place of birch trees’. The stones speak of ancient rituals and to a people who understood astronomy. When you visit this ancient site look up in wonder at the sky and reflect, that the people that built these monuments observed the same sky, sun, moon and stars.
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The church ruins date from the early 16th century but include stones from a much earlier pre 11th century church. After a new church was built, this one fell into disrepair, but the graveyard remains in use.
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An important historic site, Tullyhogue Fort is where the O'Neills were crowned the Chiefs of Ulster. It is now planted with trees and you can enjoy views across the countryside of County Tyrone.
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Built in 1802, Killymoon Castle was built to replace a 17th century castle which was destroyed by fire in 1801. James Nash was the designer, who also designed Buckingham Palace in London. Tours are available but must be pre-booked, as is afternoon tea in the castle tea rooms. See the website for more details https://killymooncastle.com/
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There are 7 stone circles, 12 cairns and 10 rows of stones here at Beaghamore. In total 1269 stones were discovered under the peat during the 1930s. The site dates back to 2900 - 2600 BC.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Drumnaglogh?
There are 6 touring cycling routes available around Drumnaglogh, offering a variety of experiences from easy rides to more challenging loops. These routes are primarily centered around the scenic Newry Canal Way and surrounding areas.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Drumnaglogh?
The touring cycling routes around Drumnaglogh feature tranquil green landscapes, quiet countryside, and gentle rolling hills. The prominent Newry Canal Way offers a mostly traffic-free, pan-flat path, ideal for relaxed cycling. Other routes, such as The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, include more challenging climbs and expansive views.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, the area offers easy routes perfect for beginners and families. The Newry Canal Way is celebrated for its mostly traffic-free, pan-flat path, making it accessible for cyclists of all abilities. An example of an easy route is the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, which is 12.9 miles (20.8 km) long and explores historical landmarks on gentle terrain.
What natural features or landmarks can I see while cycling around Drumnaglogh?
While cycling, you can enjoy lush green meadows, bullrushes, and vibrant yellow rapeseed fields along the Newry Canal. The canal itself meanders along the borders of Counties Down and Armagh, offering picturesque views. You might also encounter historic bridges, villages like Scarva, and natural features such as Lough Fea. Other notable attractions in the wider area include the Beaghmore Stone Circles and Drum Manor House Ruins.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, for experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like The Sperrins loop from Cookstown offer significant climbs and expansive views over the Sperrin Hills. This route is 33.5 miles (53.9 km) long and is rated as difficult.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Drumnaglogh area?
Yes, several routes in the area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort and the Maghery loop from Cookstown, which is a longer 44.7 miles (72.0 km) trail.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes near Drumnaglogh?
For routes along the Newry Canal Way, parking is typically available at key access points. The Scarva Visitor Centre is a convenient stopping point with facilities, and Newry Town Hall marks one end of the canal route, suggesting parking options nearby. For routes originating from Cookstown, local parking facilities would be available in the town.
What is the best time of year to cycle in the Drumnaglogh area?
The Drumnaglogh area is beautiful throughout the warmer months. Spring and summer offer lush green landscapes, vibrant yellow rapeseed fields, and pleasant weather for cycling. Depending on the season, you might also see spring bluebells or summer butterflies and dragonflies in nearby natural areas like Drumnaph Wood.
Are there cafes or pubs along the touring cycling routes for refreshments?
Yes, especially along the Newry Canal Way. The Scarva Visitor Centre, for instance, hosts the Holly Berry Tea Rooms and Little Lotty's Coffee Cart, providing convenient refreshment stops. Villages like Scarva, Poyntzpass, and Jerrettspass along the canal also offer opportunities for cafes and pubs.
Can I bring my dog on the touring cycling routes?
Many outdoor areas in Northern Ireland, including sections of the Newry Canal Way, are generally dog-friendly, especially if dogs are kept on a lead. However, it's always best to check specific local regulations or signage for each route or park you plan to visit, as rules can vary.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Drumnaglogh?
Touring cyclists using komoot often praise the tranquil green landscapes, the historic canal paths, and the variety of options for different ability levels. The region is appreciated for its accessible, scenic, and historically rich routes, making it an excellent destination for a diverse range of cycling experiences.
Are there any routes that pass by significant historical sites?
Yes, the area is rich in history. The Newry Canal Way itself is a historic route, featuring Moneypenny's Lock and Museum, historic bridges, and interpretation panels. The Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort specifically explores historical landmarks like Killymoon Castle and Tullyhogue Fort.
Most popular attractions around Drumnaglogh
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