The best cycling routes around Ballysudden
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Touring cycling around Ballysudden, a townland in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, offers routes through a landscape characterized by rolling hills and lush natural environments. The region is known for its Carboniferous limestone palaeokarst features, providing a unique geological backdrop. While Ballysudden itself is an Area of Special Scientific Interest, the surrounding County Tyrone provides diverse terrain for cyclists. This includes routes that traverse serene countryside and offer views of the Sperrin Mountains.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballysudden
- The most…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
1
riders
28.1km
01:43
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
20.8km
01:15
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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53.9km
04:03
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
72.0km
04:22
540m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
45.2km
02:43
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ballysudden
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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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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Near the banks of Lough Neagh stands Ardboe High Cross. Take a close look at the carvings on the cross which represent both the Old and New Testament. A monastery was founded here in the 6th century by St Colman and legend has it that it was created by the milk of a magic cow. Ardboe means hill of the cow, so who knows!
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A little waterside detour will take you to visit The Battery, a marina on Lough Neagh. You can grab at drink at the Battery Bar or take a seat on one of the many picnic benches and breathe in the peace and calm.
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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 Ballysudden?
There are 4 dedicated touring cycling routes detailed in this guide for the Ballysudden area, offering a range of experiences from easy to difficult.
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there are easy routes perfect for beginners or families. For example, the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop is an easy 28.1 km ride offering views of Lough Neagh. Another great option is the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, an easy 20.8 km path exploring historical sites.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see while cycling around Ballysudden?
The region around Ballysudden is characterized by rolling hills and lush natural environments. You'll encounter serene countryside, and some routes offer views towards the Sperrin Mountains. The area's unique geological features, particularly its Carboniferous limestone palaeokarst, contribute to its distinctive natural backdrop.
Are there any historical sites or landmarks to explore on a touring bike?
Absolutely. The touring routes often pass by or are near significant historical sites. For instance, the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort specifically highlights Killymoon Castle and Tullyhogue Fort. You can also find sites like Drum Manor House Ruins and Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery nearby.
Can I find challenging touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, there are difficult routes available. The The Sperrins loop from Cookstown is a 53.9 km difficult trail leading through the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains. Another demanding option is the Maghery loop from Cookstown, which covers nearly 72 km.
What makes Ballysudden an Area of Special Scientific Interest?
Ballysudden is designated an Area of Special Scientific Interest (ASSI) due to its exceptional Carboniferous limestone palaeokarst features. These ancient limestones, over 335 million years old, contain significant fossils and unique solution hollows, offering a rare insight into a Carboniferous terrestrial environment. More details can be found on the DAERA website.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, all the touring cycling routes featured in this guide are circular loops, allowing you to start and end your ride at the same point. Examples include the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop and the The Sperrins loop from Cookstown.
What do other cyclists say about touring cycling in Ballysudden?
Over 5 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore Ballysudden's varied terrain. While specific reviews are not detailed, the routes are highly rated for showcasing the best of the region's landscape, indicating a positive experience among the komoot community.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Ballysudden?
County Tyrone, where Ballysudden is located, offers a fantastic biking experience generally. While specific seasonal advice for Ballysudden isn't available, spring and summer typically provide the most pleasant weather for cycling, with lush landscapes. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking near Ballysudden?
While Ballysudden itself focuses on touring cycling, the broader County Tyrone region offers excellent mountain biking opportunities. Notably, Blessingbourne Mountain Bike Trails near Fivemiletown provide options for various skill levels, and Davagh Forest also features dedicated mountain bike trails.
Can I find places to stop for refreshments or explore local towns along the routes?
Many routes, particularly those starting or passing through towns like Cookstown, offer opportunities to stop for refreshments. The Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, for instance, explores the countryside around Cookstown, where you can find local amenities.
Are there any other natural attractions or parks to visit in the wider area?
Beyond Ballysudden's unique geology, the wider County Tyrone area boasts several natural attractions. Gortin Glen Forest Park, nestled within the Sperrin Mountains, offers serene trails and picturesque drives. The OM Dark Sky Park and Observatory in Davagh Forest is also a notable natural attraction, especially for stargazing.
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