4.4
(144)
2,070
riders
246
rides
Road cycling around Ballydonaghy offers varied terrain across Northern Ireland, featuring quiet roads and paths suitable for exploration. The region includes gentle hills and proximity to loughs, providing diverse landscapes for cyclists. Routes often incorporate canal paths and rural roads, allowing for an immersive experience in the local scenery. This area presents options for road cyclists seeking both leisurely rides and moderate challenges.
Last updated: October 18, 2026
4.2
(12)
95
riders
46km
01:53
230m
230m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5.0
(1)
16
riders
30.5km
01:21
240m
240m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

4.2
(5)
14
riders
41.4km
01:42
240m
250m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
15
riders
69.7km
03:04
450m
450m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
52.9km
02:24
470m
470m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Ballydonaghy
Royal residence in Northern Ireland. Visit with royal insights into the history of this castle! „Hillsborough Castle and Gardens” with adjacent gardens. Beautiful perennial beds, rose garden and old trees!
1
0
The Crack Bridge, also known as Fearon’s Bridge, is one of the most characteristic stone arch bridges over the Newry Canal. This historic structure is located on a beautiful, secluded section of the towpath between Poyntzpass and Jerrettspass. This robust, semi-circular arch bridge from the 18th century is built from locally quarried stone and forms an iconic image along the Newry Canal Towpath. The bridge was originally built to give local farmers and their livestock access to the farmlands on both sides of the canal without hindering navigation.
7
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Between the rustling trees along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll encounter the tranquil ruin of a lock keeper's cottage. Once, this was the proud and bustling heart of the waterway, where the lock keeper stood ready day and night to operate the heavy wooden canal gates for passing barges. Today, only the robust stone walls remain, slowly being reclaimed by nature.
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This largely flat and completely traffic-free path winds through the heart of counties Armagh and Down, along the tranquil waterway that once formed the lifeline for transporting coal to the Irish Sea. As you pedal over the well-maintained asphalt or fine gravel, you'll be surrounded by lush green embankments, historic stone bridges, and the monumental remains of eighteen locks that bridge the elevation difference in the landscape. A mix of smooth asphalt and easily rideable fine gravel, suitable for almost all types of bicycles.
7
0
Small coffeeshop right by the river Bann, directly next to Sustrans Route 9 / Newry Canal Towpath. The cafe is practically on the roadside, making it a logical stop for cyclists following the canal path. The old brick building has a relaxed atmosphere; inside and out it's a place where cyclists and walkers cross paths. Ideal for a coffee, a small snack and a short break before you cycle back into the canal landscape towards Craigavon Lakes. Enjoyed the stop, but forgot the photo.
7
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Ballydonaghy offers a wide selection of road cycling routes, with over 290 options to explore. These routes cater to various skill levels, including 78 easy routes, 177 moderate routes, and 36 more challenging routes for experienced cyclists.
Road cycling around Ballydonaghy features diverse terrain, from quiet rural roads and canal paths to areas with gentle hills. While the immediate area offers accessible rides, the wider region of Northern Ireland, including areas like Divis and the Black Mountain, provides opportunities for more significant climbs and panoramic views.
Yes, many routes incorporate scenic elements and historical sites. You can cycle along the historic Newry Canal Path, or pass through Scarva Village. Other routes offer views of Lough Neagh, the largest lake in Ireland, or take you near tranquil spots like the Cusher River and the Clare Glen Stone Bridges.
Absolutely. Ballydonaghy has 78 easy road cycling routes, many of which follow flat canal paths and quiet rural roads, making them ideal for families. A great option is the Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Drumnacanvy, which is an easy 28.6-mile trail along the historic canal.
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Ballydonaghy are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the Left Turn loop from Drumnacanvy is an easy 19.0-mile circular path through the local countryside, and the Scarva Village – Newry Canal Path loop from KD Cars is another popular 26.0-mile loop.
The road cycling routes in Ballydonaghy are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.3 stars from over 120 reviews. Cyclists often praise the quiet rural roads, the scenic canal paths, and the varied landscapes that offer both leisurely rides and moderate challenges.
Yes, some routes in the wider Ballydonaghy area provide views of Lough Neagh. The Hillsborough Road – View of Lough Neagh loop from Craigavon Area Hospital is a moderate 43.3-mile route that includes scenic sections with views of the lough, offering a beautiful backdrop to your ride.
While many routes around Ballydonaghy feature gentle hills, the broader region of Northern Ireland, including areas like Divis and the Black Mountain, offers more significant climbs for those seeking a challenge. These areas provide rewarding ascents and expansive views across the landscape.
Beyond the immediate routes, the region surrounding Ballydonaghy is rich in natural beauty. You might encounter the tranquil Cusher River, the expansive Lough Neagh, or the scenic Craigavon Lakes. The wider County Antrim area also boasts dramatic coastlines and glens, offering diverse natural landscapes.
Yes, several routes pass by or near historical sites. The Scarva Village – Newry Canal Path loop from KD Cars takes you through Scarva Village, known for its historical connections. You can also find sites like the Moyallan Pillbox along some routes, offering glimpses into the area's past.
While specific cafes and pubs directly on every route are not detailed, routes like the Scarva Village – Lottie's Café loop from Bleary indicate that some routes are designed to pass by local establishments. Scarva Village itself is known for its amenities, and many rural routes will lead you through villages where you can find refreshments.


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