The best cycling routes around Derrinleagh
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Touring cycling routes around Derrinleagh are situated within County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, a region characterized by diverse landscapes. The area features the Sperrin Mountains, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty with heather-clad hills and quiet valleys, alongside lush lowlands and the serene Lough Neagh. This varied terrain offers a mix of ascents and more gentle routes, providing a range of experiences for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Derrinleagh
- The most popular touring cycling route is Cookstown loop to…
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
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Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. 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 can I find around Derrinleagh?
There are 8 touring cycling routes available around Derrinleagh, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists. These routes range in difficulty and length, providing options for different preferences.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Derrinleagh?
The terrain around Derrinleagh is diverse, featuring the rolling hills of the Sperrin Mountains, quiet valleys, and areas near the serene Lough Neagh. You'll encounter a mix of ascents and more gentle stretches, characteristic of County Tyrone's varied landscape.
Are there touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Derrinleagh?
Yes, there are 2 easy touring cycling routes around Derrinleagh that are well-suited for beginners or families. One such route is OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory – Red Trail – No Running loop from Davagh Lower, which offers a gentle ride through scenic areas.
Are there challenging touring cycling routes in Derrinleagh for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, there are 2 difficult routes. A notable option is The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, which traverses the scenic Sperrin Mountains and offers significant elevation changes. Another challenging route is the Maghery loop from Cookstown, leading towards Lough Neagh over varied terrain.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see while cycling around Derrinleagh?
Several routes pass by historical sites. The Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort takes you past both Killymoon Castle and Tullyhogue Fort. Additionally, the region is home to the ancient Beaghmore Stone Circles, a Bronze Age complex near Cookstown, which can be incorporated into your touring plans.
Are there any natural attractions or scenic viewpoints along the touring routes?
Yes, the region is rich in natural beauty. Many routes offer views of the Sperrin Mountains, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. You might also encounter picturesque valleys like Glenelly Valley, or serene spots near Lough Fea. The Stone Bridge over Davagh Water – OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory loop from Fir Mountain offers views of Davagh Water and leads towards the OM Dark Sky Park & Observatory.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, all the touring cycling routes listed for Derrinleagh are circular loops. This includes popular options like Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort and The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, allowing you to start and finish at the same point.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Derrinleagh?
The best time for touring cycling in Derrinleagh, like much of Northern Ireland, is typically from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is generally milder, with longer daylight hours and less rainfall, making for more enjoyable rides through the scenic landscapes.
Are there opportunities for mountain biking near Derrinleagh, distinct from touring cycling?
While this guide focuses on touring cycling, the broader region around Derrinleagh, particularly the Sperrin Mountains, is also known for mountain biking. Davagh Forest, located northwest of Cookstown, offers dedicated mountain biking trails for various skill levels. Gortin Glen Forest Park also provides additional off-road cycling opportunities.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Derrinleagh?
Touring cyclists often praise the region's diverse landscapes, from the wild beauty of the Sperrin Mountains to the tranquil valleys and proximity to Lough Neagh. The variety of routes, catering to different abilities, and the opportunity to combine cycling with visits to historical sites like Killymoon Castle and Tullyhogue Fort are frequently highlighted as enjoyable aspects.
Are there any forest parks or natural areas to explore along the routes?
Yes, the region features several natural areas. The Davagh Forest Trail is a notable highlight, offering a beautiful setting for cycling. Additionally, the broader County Tyrone area includes Gortin Glen Forest Park, known for its ancient woodlands, and the Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail, which provides a serene natural environment.
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