The best cycling routes around Killymurphy
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riders
12
rides
Touring cycling routes around Killymurphy traverse a landscape characterized by lough-side paths and historical sites. The region features rolling terrain with moderate elevation changes, offering varied cycling experiences. Routes often pass through agricultural areas and provide views of natural features such as Lough Neagh. The area provides a quiet setting for outdoor exploration.
Best touring cycling routes around Killymurphy
- The most popular touring cycling route is Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, a 17.4 miles (28.1 km) trail that takes 1…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
1
riders
28.1km
01:43
140m
140m
Cycle the easy 17.4-mile Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, enjoying Lough Neagh views and the ancient Ardboe High Cross.
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
This difficult 33.5-mile touring cycling loop from Cookstown offers challenging climbs and stunning Sperrins scenery, including ancient ston
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
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 Killymurphy
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
Where is Killymurphy located, and what kind of landscape can I expect for touring cycling?
Killymurphy is characterized by a landscape of lough-side paths and historical sites, offering varied cycling experiences. The region features rolling terrain with moderate elevation changes, often passing through agricultural areas and providing views of natural features such as Lough Neagh. This area aligns with descriptions of places like Ballymurphy near Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland, known for its serene lough-side scenery and historical landmarks.
How many touring cycling routes are available in Killymurphy, and what are their difficulty levels?
There are 12 touring cycling routes available around Killymurphy. These routes cater to various skill levels, with 4 easy routes, 6 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes, ensuring options for every cyclist.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Killymurphy?
Yes, Killymurphy offers several easy touring cycling routes suitable for families. An excellent option is the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, which is 17.4 miles (28.1 km) long and follows the lough shore, providing scenic views on a relatively flat path.
What historical landmarks or natural features can I explore along the touring cycling routes?
The region is rich in historical sites and natural beauty. You can explore landmarks such as Killymoon Castle and Tullyhogue Fort on the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort. The broader area, similar to Ballymurphy, features sites like Sketrick Castle and the ancient Nendrum Monastery Ruins, offering glimpses into the past amidst beautiful scenery.
Are there any longer or more challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Killymurphy offers routes like Maghery loop from Cookstown, which spans over 44 miles (71.9 km) with significant elevation changes. Another demanding option is The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, leading through the foothills of the Sperrins.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available in Killymurphy?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes in Killymurphy are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. Examples include the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop and the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, both offering convenient circular journeys.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Killymurphy?
The best time for touring cycling in Killymurphy is generally during the spring and summer months (April to September) when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. This allows for more comfortable rides and better enjoyment of the scenic lough-side paths and historical sites.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Killymurphy?
Touring cyclists often appreciate the quiet setting and picturesque views offered by the lough-side paths and rolling terrain. The blend of natural beauty with historical sites, such as those found near Strangford Lough, provides a rich and engaging experience for those exploring the region by bike.
Are there any moderate difficulty touring cycling routes for those looking for a bit more challenge than easy loops?
Absolutely. For cyclists seeking a moderate challenge, routes like Bike loop from Cookstown offer a good balance. This route covers approximately 28 miles (45.2 km) with a moderate elevation gain, providing a more engaging ride than the easier options without being overly strenuous.
Can I find cafes or pubs along the touring cycling routes in Killymurphy?
While specific establishments are not detailed in the route descriptions, many touring cycling routes in Killymurphy pass through or near towns and villages. These locations typically offer opportunities to find cafes, pubs, or other amenities for refreshments and breaks, especially in areas like Cookstown, which serves as a starting point for several tours.
What are the typical lengths of touring cycling routes in Killymurphy?
The touring cycling routes in Killymurphy vary in length to suit different preferences. You can find shorter routes around 12-17 miles (20-28 km), such as the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, up to longer, more challenging rides exceeding 40 miles (60 km), like the Maghery loop from Cookstown.
Most popular routes around Killymurphy
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