The best cycling routes around Keady Beg
4.7
(32)
497
riders
33
rides
Touring cycling routes around Keady Beg offer a diverse landscape characterized by varied terrain, including gradual inclines and more challenging sections. The region features a mix of natural elements such as lakes, rivers, and forest parks, alongside historical trails. Canal paths provide flat, scenic options, while other routes navigate through rolling hills and wooded areas.
Best touring cycling routes around Keady Beg
- The most popular touring cycling route is Newry to 'The Old Oak' Kilbroney Park loop, a 24.6…
Last updated: June 27, 2026
1
riders
39.6km
02:26
380m
380m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
107km
06:54
1,290m
1,290m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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5.0
(12)
97
riders
51.7km
02:56
130m
130m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(4)
73
riders
44.1km
02:32
150m
150m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(1)
59
riders
44.9km
02:41
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
This charming seaside town overlooks the Mourne Mountains, whose silhouette rises along the coast of Northern Ireland. Carlingford is very lively at weekends thanks to its many pubs and restaurants, which attract visitors from the north, and is famous for its oysters. The village has several historical sights, such as the small King John's Castle, with its romantic silhouette overlooking the sea, and Taaffe's Castle, a former 16th-century merchant's house located a little further from the quay.
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The Tholsel is undoubtedly one of the most unique structures in the heart of Carlingford. This medieval city gate, originally built in the 15th century, is the only remaining gate from the original town wall and served for centuries as the ceremonial and administrative entrance to the town.
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Above the medieval street pattern, which dominates the silhouette of Carlingford, stands the imposing ruin of Carlingford Castle, also known as King John’s Castle. This castle was built around 1190 by the Norman knight Hugh de Lacy and was for centuries the strategic key to the entrance of Carlingford Lough.
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Small, elevated Calvary hill on the edge of Omeath, with a short path leading up to a series of white crosses on an open grassy plateau. The spot offers a quiet moment above the village, with clear views towards Carlingford Lough and the surrounding hills.
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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.
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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.
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Quiet canal section south of Poyntzpass, where the towpath runs tightly along the narrow water. The bank is lightly overgrown with low trees and hedges, giving the stretch an intimate, green impression. The water is mostly still, forming a straight line through the open agricultural landscape. An even, traffic-free segment ideal for quiet miles on the towpath.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Keady Beg?
There are over 30 touring cycling routes available around Keady Beg, catering to various skill levels. You'll find 3 easy routes, 13 moderate routes, and 16 difficult routes, ensuring options for everyone from beginners to experienced cyclists.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Keady Beg?
The Keady Beg area offers a diverse range of terrain. You can expect a mix of gradual inclines and more challenging sections, with routes winding through rolling hills, wooded areas, and along scenic canal paths. Some routes, like the 77.3 km path around Keady Mountain mentioned in regional research, feature significant elevation changes.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes near Keady Beg?
Yes, for a more relaxed family-friendly experience, the Newry Canal Towpath is an excellent choice. It offers a very flat and scenic 18-mile round trip between Newry and Portadown, ideal for leisurely touring. While not explicitly listed as easy in the guide data, its flat nature makes it suitable for families. Additionally, the region has 3 easy routes listed in the guide data that would be suitable for families.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the touring cycling routes?
The Keady Beg area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Along your rides, you might encounter picturesque spots like Camlough Lake, offering tranquil views. For history enthusiasts, Gosford Castle and the Red Deer Enclosure in Gosford Forest Park provide interesting stops. The Newry Canal Towpath itself is a highlight, featuring old canal lock gates and gatekeepers' cottages.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Keady Beg area?
Yes, several circular routes are available. A popular moderate option is the Newry to 'The Old Oak' Kilbroney Park loop, covering 39.6 km. Another moderate circular route is the Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Lurganare, which is 51.4 km. For a more challenging experience, consider the difficult Newry to Castlewellan loop, spanning 106.8 km.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Keady Beg?
The touring cycling routes around Keady Beg are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.8 stars from over 20 reviews. Cyclists often praise the varied terrain, which offers both leisurely rides along scenic canal paths and more strenuous journeys through forest parks and along lakes. The network provides options for different ability levels, making it appealing to a wide range of touring cyclists.
Are there any routes that explore the historical aspects of Keady?
Yes, within Keady itself, there are heritage trails measuring 2.22 and 4 miles that offer a chance to explore the town's history, starting from the Tommy Makem Arts and Community Centre. For a longer ride, the 'Keady Hill, Lakes, Rivers, and Mills Historic Walk' (21-27 miles) is suitable for cycling and showcases the town's industrial heritage and natural beauty, including landmarks like Roughans Fort and Linen Vale Mill.
What are some options for challenging touring cycling routes?
For those seeking a challenge, the Keady Beg area offers several difficult routes. The Newry to Castlewellan loop is a significant undertaking at 106.8 km with over 1280 meters of elevation gain, providing a strenuous experience through the wider region. Many of the 16 difficult routes available will offer similar demanding climbs and descents.
Can I access touring cycling routes in Keady Beg using public transport?
While specific public transport links directly to trailheads in Keady Beg are not detailed, the nearby Newry Canal Towpath is accessible from Newry, which is a larger town with public transport connections. For routes starting directly in Keady, local bus services might be available, but it's advisable to check local transport schedules for specific routes and bike carriage policies.
Are there any less crowded touring cycling routes in the area?
To find less crowded routes, consider exploring some of the lesser-known paths away from the main canal towpath, or cycling during off-peak times. The region's numerous forest parks and glens, such as Carnagh Forest Park or Keady / Annvale Glen, offer serene natural settings that might provide a quieter cycling experience compared to more popular routes.
What is the best season for touring cycling around Keady Beg?
The best season for touring cycling around Keady Beg is generally spring through autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder and more stable, with longer daylight hours. This allows for more comfortable riding conditions and better enjoyment of the scenic landscapes and natural features of the region.
Are there places to stop for refreshments along the cycling routes?
Yes, particularly along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll find opportunities for refreshment stops in towns like Poyntzpass. In the broader Keady area, towns and villages along various routes will offer cafes, pubs, and shops where you can refuel and rest during your tour.
Most popular routes around Keady Beg
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