The best road cycling routes around Ballyknock
121
riders
35
rides
Road cycling routes around Ballyknock traverse a diverse landscape featuring dedicated cycle paths, tranquil river valleys, and historical sites. The region is characterized by a mix of mostly paved surfaces, undulating roads, and varying elevation gains. Cyclists can explore areas around the Cusher River with its forest backdrops and stone bridges, or pass by cultural landmarks such as Gosford Castle. This varied terrain provides options for different skill levels, from gentle rides to more challenging routes with significant climbs.
Best…
Last updated: May 16, 2026
9
riders
53.9km
02:20
430m
430m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
31.9km
01:21
220m
220m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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4
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
5
riders
59.5km
02:26
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
100km
04:57
1,160m
1,160m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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Popular around Ballyknock
Tips from the Community
Learmount Wood is located at the foothills of the northern face of the Sperrins in Northern Ireland. The forest features a wonderful diversity of tree species, including some that have been there for over 100 years. It's a beautiful place for a stroll, featuring a stream and an abandoned mansion dating back to the 1830s.
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Learmount Castle is a stunning Tudor-Gothic mansion that was built in the 1830s by Henry Barré Beresford. The house is now abandoned, but you can still use your imagination to picture its grandeur when it was in all its glory.
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Contained within the ruins is a sculpture of the crucifixion, which is thought to date from the 10th Century, making it one of the oldest in Ireland. St Lurach founded an important church here in the 6th century. It was plundered by Vikings in 832 and burned in 1135. Following the 12th-century ecclesiastical reforms this was the seat of a bishop from the mid 12th to the mid 13th century, then served as parish church until the new church across the road was built in the early 19th century. This long history is reflected in the much patched and altered fabric, and the big uneven graveyard.
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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 Cregán Visitor Centre is worth a visit for an introduction to the beautiful surroundings, its biodiversity, archaeology and history.There is a cafe and a children's park, nature walks, bronze age replicas and even holiday cottages. For more information see their website
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Enjoy riding through the greenery. ALl around you there are fields, pockets of woodland and big skies.
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The An Creagan Visitor Centre is an introduction to the beautiful biodiversity and archeology on offer at Creggan Wood. The centre is fit with a licensed restaurant, bar, craft shop, conference facilities, children's play area, and even holiday cottages.
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Tudor-Gothic house, built in 1830 by Henry Barré Beresford. Situated in Learmont Park there are some good gravel and mixed terrain tracks to explore.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available in Ballyknock?
Ballyknock offers a good selection of road cycling routes, with over 30 routes available for exploration. These range from easy rides to more challenging ascents, catering to various skill levels.
Are there road cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Ballyknock?
Yes, Ballyknock has several routes perfect for beginners and families. There are 12 easy routes, such as the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Maghera, which provides a gentler ride through the local countryside, suitable for less experienced riders.
What kind of terrain can I expect on road cycling routes around Ballyknock?
The terrain around Ballyknock is diverse, featuring mostly paved surfaces, undulating roads, and varying elevation gains. You'll find dedicated cycle paths like the Newry cycle path, serene river valleys, and some routes with significant climbs. While most are paved, some challenging routes may have unpaved segments requiring dismounting.
Are there any challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders in Ballyknock?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists seeking a challenge, Ballyknock offers 3 difficult routes. An example is the Learmount Wood – Learmount Castle loop from Maghera, which covers 100 km with over 1100 meters of elevation gain, requiring good to very good fitness.
What historical sites or landmarks can I see while road cycling in Ballyknock?
Road cycling in Ballyknock offers a blend of natural beauty and historical interest. You can cycle past cultural landmarks such as Gosford Castle, a 19th-century country house that was also a Game of Thrones filming location. The Newry cycle path also passes through Scarva Village, featuring a World War II-era Scarva pilbox.
Are there any scenic viewpoints or natural features along the road cycling routes?
Yes, Ballyknock's routes are rich in natural beauty. You can explore areas around the Cusher River with its tranquil forest backdrops and stone bridges, or enjoy the dense woodland scenery of Clare Glen. For specific viewpoints, consider routes that pass near Carntogher Summit Cairn, offering expansive views.
Are there any routes that feature waterfalls or reservoirs?
Yes, some routes in the broader Ballyknock area can lead you to beautiful natural features. You might encounter Altkeeran Waterfall or the serene Altnaheglish Reservoir, which are popular highlights for those exploring the region.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Ballyknock?
The komoot community frequently praises Ballyknock for its diverse landscape, which offers a mix of dedicated cycle paths, tranquil river valleys, and historical sites. Cyclists appreciate the varied terrain, providing options for different ability levels, from easy rides to challenging ascents, and the opportunity to explore both natural beauty and cultural landmarks.
Are there any loop road cycling routes in Ballyknock?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes in Ballyknock are designed as loops, offering convenient starting and ending points. For example, the popular St Lurach's Church Ruins – Bench Under a Large Tree loop from Pollan Burn is a moderate 53.8 km route, and the Bench Under a Large Tree – An Creagan Visitor Centre loop from Maghera is a longer 104 km option.
What is the average distance and elevation gain for road cycling routes in Ballyknock?
The routes vary significantly. Easy routes like the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Maghera are around 32 km with about 220 meters of elevation. Moderate routes, such as the View of Lough Neagh – Lough Neagh loop from Maghera, can be around 60 km with 365 meters of climbing. Difficult routes can extend over 100 km with more than 1100 meters of elevation gain.
Are there any specific forests or woodlands to cycle through in Ballyknock?
Yes, Ballyknock offers picturesque cycling through various forested areas. The Cusher River is known for its tranquil forest areas with signed trails, and Clare Glen provides dense woodland scenery. You can also find highlights like Banagher Forest and Moydamlaght Forest in the surrounding region.
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