The best cycling routes around Ballygroogan
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Touring cycling around Ballygroogan offers routes through a landscape characterized by rolling green hills, historic sites, and forested areas. The region features varied terrain, from gentle paths suitable for leisure rides to more challenging ascents. Cyclists can explore areas with cultural landmarks and natural features like Davagh Water.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballygroogan
- The most popular touring cycling route is Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, a 12.9 miles (20.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour…
Last updated: May 17, 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
15
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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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Popular around Ballygroogan
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
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling around Ballygroogan?
Ballygroogan offers a diverse landscape for touring cyclists. You'll encounter rolling green hills, historic sites, and forested areas. The terrain varies from gentle paths suitable for leisure rides to more challenging ascents, providing options for different ability levels. Ireland, in general, is known for its lush green fields and picturesque hills, with some routes featuring mostly well-paved surfaces.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, there is at least one easy touring cycling route around Ballygroogan. The Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort is an easy 20.8 km (12.9 miles) trail that takes approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to complete, passing by notable historical landmarks. This route is ideal for those looking for a less strenuous ride.
What are some of the natural features or landmarks I can see along the cycling routes?
The region offers a mix of natural beauty and historical sites. Along the routes, you might encounter features like Davagh Water and forested areas. For specific landmarks, the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort passes by Killymoon Castle and Tullyhogue Fort. The Stone Bridge over Davagh Water – OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory loop from Fir Mountain leads through forested areas and past a unique observatory. Ireland's broader landscape features rugged coastlines, rolling green hills, serene lakes, and unique geological formations.
Are there any challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are difficult routes available. The Sperrins loop from Cookstown is a difficult 53.9 km (33.5 miles) path that offers expansive views across the Sperrin Mountains. Another challenging option is the Maghery loop from Cookstown, which covers 71.9 km (44.7 miles).
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ballygroogan?
While specific seasonal considerations for Ballygroogan are not detailed, Ireland generally offers pleasant cycling conditions from late spring through early autumn (May to September). During these months, you can expect milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, making it ideal for exploring the green hills and scenic routes. However, be prepared for changeable weather, as is typical for the region.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, several touring cycling routes around Ballygroogan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, and the Stone Bridge over Davagh Water – OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory loop from Fir Mountain.
What can I expect to see in terms of nearby attractions or points of interest?
Beyond the cycling routes themselves, Ballygroogan and its surroundings offer several points of interest. You can explore historical sites like the Drum Manor House Ruins and Tullyhogue Fort. Nature lovers might enjoy Lough Fea or the Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail. There's also the Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery for those interested in local history.
Are there places to eat or drink near the cycling routes?
While specific cafes and pubs directly on the routes are not detailed, the region's towns, such as Cookstown, which serves as a starting point for several routes, typically offer a selection of shops, restaurants, cafes, and pubs. Ireland is known for its welcoming pubs, providing good opportunities for refreshments after a ride.
Is it possible to rent bikes in or near Ballygroogan?
While specific bike rental options for Ballygroogan are not provided, bike rental services are generally available in various locations across Ireland, especially in areas popular for cycling. It's advisable to check with local tourism offices or search online for bike rental shops in nearby towns like Cookstown or other regional hubs before your visit.
How many touring cycling routes are available in Ballygroogan?
There are at least 5 touring cycling routes available around Ballygroogan listed on komoot. These routes cater to various skill levels, from easy to difficult, ensuring there's something for every touring cyclist.
What is the general difficulty level of touring cycling in Ballygroogan?
The touring cycling routes around Ballygroogan offer a range of difficulties. You can find easy routes, such as the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, as well as moderate options like the Stone Bridge over Davagh Water – OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory loop from Fir Mountain and the Bike loop from Cookstown. For more experienced riders, there are difficult routes like The Sperrins loop from Cookstown and the Maghery loop from Cookstown.
Are there any specific viewpoints or scenic spots along the routes?
Yes, the region offers several scenic spots. For instance, The Sperrins loop from Cookstown provides expansive views across the Sperrin Mountains, known for their natural beauty. The general landscape of rolling green hills and forested areas also offers many picturesque moments throughout your ride.
Most popular routes around Ballygroogan
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