The best MTB trails around Ards

There are 8 mountain bike trails around Ards listed on komoot, offering diverse terrain across the Ards Peninsula and the wider Ards and North Down Borough. These routes range from easy to moderate difficulty.

Yes, Ards offers several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Castleward trails loop from Strangford is an easy 9.7-mile route through the Castle Ward Estate. Another easy option is the Castle Ward Forest – Audleystown Wood loop from Portloughan, which is about 9.6 miles long.

The mountain bike trails in Ards feature a mix of terrain. You'll find quiet country roads, traffic-free paths like the Comber Greenway, and some unpaved sections, especially along the extensive coastline and around Strangford Lough. While dedicated technical trails are more common in nearby forest parks, Ards provides routes with varied surfaces, including some challenging climbs, particularly on the eastern shore of the Ards Peninsula.

Yes, many routes in Ards are circular. For example, the popular North Down Coastal Path and Helen's Tower Loop is an 18-mile circular trail. Another option is the Castleward trails loop from Strangford, which is also a circular route.

The trails in Ards offer stunning natural beauty and historical landmarks. You can enjoy panoramic views over Strangford Lough and the surrounding countryside from areas near Scrabo Tower. The Nendrum Monastic Site & Belvoir Park loop from Saintfield takes you past the historic Nendrum Monastery Ruins. Other highlights include Sketrick Castle and the scenic Comber Greenway.

The mountain bike routes in Ards are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.2 stars from over 17 reviews. More than 140 mountain bikers have used komoot to explore Ards's varied terrain, often praising the scenic coastal views and diverse landscapes.

While dedicated technical mountain biking trails are more concentrated in other parts of County Down like Castlewellan and Rostrevor Forest Parks, Ards offers moderate routes that provide a good challenge. The Nendrum Monastic Site & Belvoir Park loop from Saintfield is a longer, moderate 39.5-mile path with varied landscapes, and the North Down Coastal Path and Helen's Tower Loop is an 18-mile moderate route with some elevation gain.

The Ards area can be enjoyed year-round, but conditions vary. Exposed headlands on the Ards Peninsula can make conditions significant depending on wind direction, so checking the weather forecast is always advisable. Spring and autumn often offer pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, while summer provides longer daylight hours. Winter rides are possible but require appropriate gear for potentially colder and wetter conditions.

Parking is generally available in towns and villages throughout the Ards and North Down Borough, which serve as starting points for many routes. For specific trails like those around Castle Ward, dedicated parking facilities are usually provided. For routes that pass through urban areas or connect to greenways, public car parks are often accessible.

Public transport can provide access to certain areas. The Comber Greenway, for example, connects Belfast to Comber, offering an accessible starting point. The Strangford Lough Cycle Trail also incorporates traffic-free sections in areas like Newtownards, Downpatrick, and Comber, which are typically served by local bus routes. Planning your route in advance and checking local transport schedules is recommended.

Yes, the Ards Peninsula and surrounding areas have numerous towns and villages where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. Places like Newtownards, Comber, and Strangford offer options for refreshments and meals before or after your ride. For example, if you're riding the Castleward trails loop from Strangford, the village of Strangford itself has places to eat.

While specific regulations can vary by land ownership, many public paths and country roads in the Ards area are generally dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept under control, especially around livestock or wildlife. Always check local signage, particularly in nature reserves or specific estates like Castle Ward, for any restrictions. The Comber Greenway is a popular spot for dog walkers and cyclists alike.

The North Down Coastal Path offers a blend of coastal scenery and more rugged terrain, making it suitable for mountain biking. The North Down Coastal Path and Helen's Tower Loop is an 18-mile moderate route that provides excellent coastal views and passes by the historic Helen's Tower.