The best road cycling routes around Derrylileagh
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32
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Road cycling routes around Derrylileagh traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills and numerous waterways, including the expansive Lough Neagh. The region offers a mix of well-paved roads, providing varied terrain for cyclists. This area, part of County Armagh, features diverse natural features suitable for different cycling preferences.
Best road cycling routes around Derrylileagh
- The most popular road cycling route is Scarva, Tandragee and Annaghmore loop from Maghery, a 48.4 miles (77.9 km) trail that takes 3 hours 19…
Last updated: July 11, 2026
2
riders
77.9km
03:19
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
12
riders
50.0km
02:07
310m
310m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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12
riders
50.1km
02:18
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
12
riders
105km
04:19
600m
600m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
11
riders
46.7km
01:59
360m
360m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Derrylileagh
Tips from the Community
Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
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The small town of Scarva, nestled between green meadows and the quiet canal, offers a welcome break on my bike tour through Northern Ireland. Here you cycle on well-maintained paths past historic bridges and small villages that give you the feeling that time has stood still. The British flags fluttering along the side of the road remind you that you are in a culturally special area - a detail that reflects the identity of the region. The route is easy to cycle, the surrounding landscape is gently rolling, which makes for pleasant cycling. The view of wide fields and rolling hills invites you to slow down now and then and take in the peace and quiet. A special feature of Scarva is the annual Orange Order March, which transforms the village into a kind of open-air stage once a year and keeps the traditions of this region alive.
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As you step through the magnificent gate, you will be enveloped by the timelessness of this historic place. The old walls, which shine in the sun, tell stories from times long past and invite you to discover them. The municipality has enriched this treasure trove of history with a library and a museum that attract knowledge seekers and history lovers. In the quiet rooms of the library you can leaf through old writings and be transported back to times gone by, while the museum brings the history of the place and its people to life. After a journey of discovery through history and culture, the Priorat's café beckons with its seductive scent of freshly brewed coffee. Here, in an ambience that wonderfully combines modernity and history, you can take a little time out. Choose from comfortable seating inside or settle on one of the terraces to soak up the rays while munching on delicious pastries. But the Priory has even more to offer. A dreamy little walkway winds from the building down to the river. A path lined with blooming flowers and old trees that acts as an invitation to explore this wonderful terrain in all its splendor.
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Scarva (from Irish: Scarbhach meaning "shallow place, rough ford" is a small village in the parish of Aghaderg, County Down, Scarva is known as the location of the "Sham Fight" Pageant on 13 July every year. The Pageant attracts thousands of members of the Royal Black Preceptory, who come to act out a symbolic dramatised re-enactment of the Battle of the Boyne.
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Nice little cafe at Benburb Priory. Well worth a stop if you are in the area.
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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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A mixture of wooded, paved, and gravel trails will lead you through the wonderful Lough Gall Country Park in Loughgall, County Armagh. There's a wealth of things to discover here such as bluebell and orchid-filled woodlands, a golf and football pitch, an outdoor gym and a coffee shop.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Derrylileagh?
There are over 35 road cycling routes available around Derrylileagh, offering a diverse range of options for cyclists. These routes traverse a landscape characterized by rolling hills and numerous waterways, including the expansive Lough Neagh.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes in the Derrylileagh area?
Road cycling routes around Derrylileagh primarily feature well-paved roads, winding through rolling hills and alongside various waterways. You'll encounter varied rural scenery, with some routes offering extensive views of Lough Neagh and its surrounding lakelands. The region provides a mix of easy, moderate, and challenging sections.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or less experienced cyclists?
Yes, the Derrylileagh area offers several road cycling routes suitable for beginners. These routes typically feature well-paved surfaces and minimal elevation gain, providing a comfortable experience for those new to road cycling. You can find around 5 easy routes to get started.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in the Derrylileagh area?
The best time for road cycling in the Derrylileagh area, and Northern Ireland generally, is during the spring (April-May) and summer (June-August) months. During these periods, the weather is typically milder with longer daylight hours, making for more pleasant riding conditions. Autumn can also be beautiful, especially in areas like Loughgall Country Park, with vibrant foliage.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, there are several routes with significant elevation gain and longer distances. The region offers around 4 difficult routes that will test your endurance. For example, the View of Lough Neagh – Lough Neagh loop from Clonmore is a moderate route at over 100 km, offering a substantial ride with varied terrain.
Can I find routes that offer views of Lough Neagh?
Absolutely. Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in Ireland and the UK, is a prominent feature of the region. Many routes offer stunning views of the lake and its surrounding lakelands. The View of Lough Neagh – Lough Neagh loop from Clonmore is an excellent choice for extensive lake views, and the Maghery Footbridge at Lough Neagh is a notable viewpoint.
Are there any interesting landmarks or attractions along the road cycling routes?
Yes, road cycling routes around Derrylileagh pass by several interesting landmarks and natural attractions. You can enjoy views of Lough Neagh, visit historical sites like Mountjoy Castle, or enjoy scenic spots like the Bannfoot Picnic Area. The Blackwater River Walk also offers a pleasant natural feature.
Are there any circular road cycling routes in the area?
Many of the road cycling routes around Derrylileagh are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Scarva, Tandragee and Annaghmore loop from Maghery and the Stables Café at Benburb Priory loop from Ardress House, providing convenient options for your ride.
Are there options for cyclists looking for routes near cafes or places to stop?
Yes, several routes pass through or near charming villages and towns where you can find cafes and pubs. The Stables Café at Benburb Priory loop from Ardress House is a prime example, specifically mentioning a cafe. Loughgall Country Park, while not directly on a listed route here, is known for its cafe, making it a good destination or stop-off point if you plan your ride accordingly.
What are some popular road cycling routes in the Derrylileagh area?
Among the most popular road cycling routes are the Scarva, Tandragee and Annaghmore loop from Maghery, known for its varied rural scenery, and the View of Lough Neagh – Lough Neagh loop from Clonmore, which offers extensive lake views. Another local favorite is the The Mall, Armagh Memorials loop from Ardress House, providing a mix of rural landscapes and points of interest.
Can I find road cycling routes that are suitable for families?
While specific 'family-friendly' road cycling routes are not explicitly detailed in the data, the region's easy routes with minimal elevation and well-paved surfaces would be suitable for families with older children or those comfortable with road cycling. For very young children, traffic-free paths like sections of the National Cycle Network Route 92 along the River Foyle (further afield in Derry) or paths within Loughgall Country Park might be more appropriate.
Are there routes that explore the wider County Armagh region?
Yes, many routes extend beyond the immediate Derrylileagh vicinity into the broader County Armagh landscape. For instance, the Scarva, Tandragee and Annaghmore loop from Maghery takes you through varied rural scenery within the county, and the The Mall, Armagh Memorials loop from Ardress House explores areas around Armagh, showcasing the diverse terrain and attractions of County Armagh.
Most popular routes around Derrylileagh
Most popular attractions around Derrylileagh
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