The best cycling routes around Tamlaghtmore
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Touring cycling around Tamlaghtmore offers access to varied natural landscapes in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland. The region features the dramatic Sperrin Mountains, providing challenging routes and scenic views, alongside the tranquil Davagh Forest with its coniferous woodlands. Cyclists can also explore routes along the River Blackwater and through diverse forest parks like Drum Manor and Pomeroy. This area provides a mix of terrain, from winding forest tracks to more demanding mountain ascents.
Best touring cycling routes around Tamlaghtmore
- The most…
Last updated: May 16, 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 Tamlaghtmore
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
What kind of terrain can I expect when touring cycling around Tamlaghtmore?
Touring cycling around Tamlaghtmore offers a diverse range of terrain. You'll find everything from winding forest tracks in areas like Davagh Forest and Drum Manor Forest Park to more demanding ascents and dramatic landscapes within the Sperrin Mountains. Routes also include scenic paths along the River Blackwater and open countryside.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or those looking for an easy ride?
Yes, Tamlaghtmore offers several easy touring cycling routes. For instance, the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop is an easy 28.1 km ride exploring the area near Lough Neagh. Another accessible option is the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, which is 20.8 km and features historical landmarks.
Where can I find more challenging touring cycling routes in the Tamlaghtmore area?
For more challenging touring cycling, head towards the Sperrin Mountains. Routes like The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, at 53.9 km, offer significant elevation gain and breathtaking views. Another demanding option is the Maghery loop from Cookstown, which covers approximately 72 km with considerable climbs.
What natural features or landmarks can I see along the touring cycling routes?
The touring cycling routes around Tamlaghtmore pass by several interesting natural features and historical landmarks. You might encounter the ancient Tullyhogue Fort, or the serene Lough Fea. The Drum Manor House Ruins and the Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail also offer historical and natural points of interest.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in the Tamlaghtmore area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, and Bike loop from Cookstown.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Tamlaghtmore?
The best time for touring cycling in Tamlaghtmore, and Northern Ireland generally, is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is milder, with longer daylight hours and less rainfall, making for more enjoyable rides through the varied landscapes of County Tyrone.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling options near Tamlaghtmore?
While specific family-designated routes aren't listed, the easier, flatter sections along the River Blackwater, such as those near The Argory, or the less strenuous forest tracks in Drum Manor Forest Park, could be suitable for families. The Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop is also an easy option that might appeal to families.
Can I bring my dog on touring cycling routes in the Tamlaghtmore area?
Many forest parks and public trails in Northern Ireland, including those accessible from Tamlaghtmore, are dog-friendly, often requiring dogs to be kept on a lead. It's always best to check specific park regulations or route descriptions for any restrictions before heading out with your dog, especially in nature reserves or areas with livestock.
What are the typical distances and durations for touring cycling routes around Tamlaghtmore?
The touring cycling routes around Tamlaghtmore vary significantly in distance and duration. Easy routes like the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort are around 20 km and can be completed in about 1 hour 15 minutes. More difficult routes, such as the Maghery loop from Cookstown, can be up to 72 km and take over 4 hours.
Are there any unique attractions for touring cyclists in the region, such as dark sky parks?
Yes, the region offers a unique attraction for those interested in stargazing. The OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory is located within Davagh Forest in the Sperrin Mountains. While primarily a nocturnal experience, the forest itself provides excellent daytime cycling opportunities and can be incorporated into a touring route, offering a different kind of natural wonder.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Tamlaghtmore?
Touring cyclists using komoot appreciate the varied terrain and the opportunity to explore both tranquil forest paths and the more challenging, scenic routes of the Sperrin Mountains. The region's mix of natural beauty and historical sites, such as those found on the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, also adds to the appeal.
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