The best cycling routes around Ballygonny More
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5
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Touring cycling routes around Ballygonny More are characterized by a blend of tranquil waterscapes, rolling countryside, and historical sites. The region features the shores of Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in Ireland and the UK, offering serene waterside cycling. Further inland, the countryside of County Tyrone provides scenic backdrops with gentle hills and open views. This diverse landscape offers varied and engaging routes for cyclists of different abilities.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballygonny More
- The most popular touring…
Last updated: May 21, 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 Ballygonny More
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 in Ballygonny More?
There are 5 touring cycling routes detailed for the Ballygonny More area, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners in Ballygonny More?
Yes, Ballygonny More offers several easy touring cycling routes. A great option is the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, which is 17.4 miles (28.1 km) long and follows the serene shores of Lough Neagh. Another easy route is the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, exploring the County Tyrone countryside.
What kind of scenery can I expect on the touring cycling routes around Ballygonny More?
The routes offer a diverse range of scenery. You can expect tranquil waterscapes along Lough Neagh, rolling countryside in County Tyrone, and scenic views, particularly from historical sites like Tullyhogue Fort. The broader region also features areas with babbling brooks, waterfalls, and rich woodlands.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the area?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Ballygonny More are designed as loops. Examples include the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, and the more challenging The Sperrins loop from Cookstown.
What historical sites or landmarks can I explore along the touring cycling routes?
The routes often pass by significant historical sites. You can visit the ancient Ardboe High Cross near Lough Neagh, the ruins of Mountjoy Castle, and Tullyhogue Fort, an important historic site with panoramic views across County Tyrone.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Ballygonny More?
While specific seasonal conditions can vary, the spring and summer months generally offer the most favorable weather for touring cycling in Northern Ireland, with milder temperatures and longer daylight hours. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, though weather can be more unpredictable.
Are there any challenging or advanced touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, routes like The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, a 33.5-mile (53.9 km) trail through the scenic Sperrins area, and the Maghery loop from Cookstown, a 71.9 km route, offer more significant distances and elevation gains.
What natural features can be seen while cycling in Ballygonny More?
Cyclists can enjoy the vast expanse of Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in Ireland and the UK, offering serene waterside views. The countryside of County Tyrone provides rolling hills and open vistas. While not directly on every route, the nearby Gortin Glen is known for babbling brooks and splashing waterfalls.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ballygonny More?
The komoot community appreciates the blend of serene lake views, picturesque countryside, and historical landmarks that define touring cycling in Ballygonny More. Cyclists often highlight the varied terrain, which offers options for different skill levels, and the opportunity to explore significant cultural sites.
Are there any facilities or places to stop along the routes, such as marinas?
Yes, along the shores of Lough Neagh, you can find spots like The Battery Marina, which can serve as a pleasant break point during your ride. The region also has towns like Cookstown that offer amenities.
Can I find family-friendly touring cycling options in Ballygonny More?
The easier routes, such as the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, which is relatively flat and follows the lake shore, are generally suitable for families looking for a relaxed cycling experience. These routes offer manageable distances and gentle terrain.
Are there opportunities for other outdoor activities besides cycling in the broader region?
Yes, the broader region offers a variety of outdoor pursuits. For instance, the Castleblayney Outdoor Adventure Centre (located near Lough Muckno) provides watersports like sailing, stand-up paddleboarding, and kayaking. You can find more information at monaghantourism.com.
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