The best cycling routes around Drumhirk
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613
riders
82
rides
Touring cycling routes around Drumhirk, located in County Down, Northern Ireland, offer access to diverse landscapes. The region features a green landscape with expansive parklands, coastal paths, and lough-side trails, particularly around Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula. Inland, cyclists can find routes through tranquil forest parks like Drumkeeragh Forest, which provides woodland terrain and views towards the Mourne Mountains. The area presents a mix of flat lough-side trails and undulating countryside, with roads generally in good condition.
Best touring…
Last updated: August 27, 2026
47.7km
03:26
310m
310m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
5.0
(2)
31
riders
34.0km
02:02
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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10
riders
77.4km
04:31
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
31.2km
01:53
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
11
riders
10.2km
00:49
110m
110m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Tips from the Community
Burr Point marks the most easterly point on the island of Ireland. The spot is marked by a coastal sculpture by artist Ned Jackson Smyth. You can rest up in the sheltered cove which has a well-kept toilet and changing facilities close by.
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Carrowdore Castle Gate is one of the original 19th-century entrance lodges to the Carrowdore Castle estate in County Down. Built in a Gothic style, it features a castellated parapet and turret-like details that echo the look of the main house. Today it stands as one of the most distinctive remnants of the castle complex, marking the historic gateway to the estate.
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Here, in the middle of the city, the characters from The Chronicles of Narnia come to life in the form of impressive bronze sculptures. As a cyclist, you pass right by the square and can pause for a moment to immerse yourself in this fantastic world. The sculptures of Aslan, the mighty lion, and the White Witch's throne in particular attract attention. The details of the figures are impressive and give the characters a special presence. The square is not only a place for literature lovers, but also an interesting work of art in the open air - a change from the usual sights. CS Lewis, the famous writer and son of the city, is omnipresent here and also makes this place a small piece of Belfast history.
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Nendrum Monastery was a Christian monastery founded in the 5th century. The monastery finished somewhere between 974 and 1178, but the church survived until the 15th century. You can visit the ruins if you're riding past.
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Visitors to Corrog Wood will be greeted by a curious wooden sculpture of a Dryad. The sculpture has been affectionately named the ‘Frump in the Stump’. A dryad is a tree nymph in Greek mythology. The Dryad keeps a watchful, protective eye on the new wood standing at the entrance. Continue past the Dryad on through the little kissing gate and a loop pathway will be waiting to lead you around the 14-acre wood, where a mix of approximately 12,000 native trees and 400 metres of hedging have been planted.
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A pathway along the lake allows for closer inspection of the birds. For example, swans, mallards, little grebe, moorhens, and coots are usually present. There is an observation area to view the birds and other wildlife. Parking is available. In July 2000, Kiltonga Nature Reserve became the first site in the UK to be awarded BT Millennium Miles status.
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The Marina is a nature reserve of unparalleled beauty, it is a good starting point on which to explore the Lough.
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Portaferry ( from Port an Pheire 'landing place of the ferry' ) is a small town in County down, at the southern end of the Ards Peninsula, near the Narrows at the entrance to Strangford Lough. It hosts its own small Marina, From where the The Ferry service operates daily at 30-minute intervals (7.45 am to 10.45 pm) between the villages of Portaferry and Strangford. The Lough being one of the world's most important marine sites with over 2,000 marine species. There are fine Georgian buildings in the town square, including a Market House, now used as a community centre. Portaferry Castle, a 16th-century townhouse ruin, sits atop a slope overlooking the Harbour.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Drumhirk?
There are over 90 touring cycling routes around Drumhirk, offering a wide range of options for different skill levels and preferences. This includes 29 easy routes, 48 moderate routes, and 15 more challenging trails.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Drumhirk?
The terrain around Drumhirk is quite varied. You'll find picturesque coastal paths and lough-side trails, particularly around Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula, which are generally flatter. Inland, routes can lead through tranquil forest parks like Drumkeeragh Forest, offering more undulating countryside and scenic woodland paths. Some routes, especially those venturing closer to the Mourne Mountains, may include more significant climbs.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in the Drumhirk area?
Yes, the region offers several family-friendly options. The Comber Greenway is a notable traffic-free route, perfect for families and leisure riders seeking a gentler experience. Many of the easier routes, such as the Helen's Tower loop from Bangor, are also suitable for families.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see while cycling around Drumhirk?
Cycling routes around Drumhirk offer access to a variety of interesting sites. You can explore historical landmarks like Grey Point Fort and Ballycopeland Windmill. The Whiterock Harbour – Nendrum Monastic Site Ruins loop from Newtownards specifically takes you past historical sites. Additionally, you might encounter natural features like Helen's Bay Beach or the scenic Helen's Tower.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes near Drumhirk?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Drumhirk are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Strangford Lough Cycle Trail, the Whiterock Harbour – Nendrum Monastic Site Ruins loop from Newtownards, and the Whiterock Harbour – Sketrick Castle Ruins loop from Movilla, which offer diverse scenery.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Drumhirk?
The touring cycling routes around Drumhirk are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 50 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, from the tranquil lough-side paths to the scenic forest trails, and the opportunities to combine cycling with exploring historical sites and natural beauty.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling around Drumhirk?
The region around Drumhirk offers enjoyable cycling experiences throughout much of the year. Spring and summer typically provide the most pleasant weather with longer daylight hours, ideal for exploring coastal paths and forest trails. Autumn can also be beautiful with changing foliage, particularly in areas like Drumkeeragh Forest. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wetter conditions.
Are there options for advanced touring cyclists seeking a challenge?
Yes, for more experienced touring cyclists, there are routes that offer greater distances and more significant elevation changes. The Whiterock Harbour – Sketrick Castle Ruins loop from Movilla, for instance, is classified as difficult, covering over 61 km with notable ascents. Routes venturing towards the Mourne Mountains also provide challenging terrain.
Where can I find parking for bike trails near Drumhirk?
Parking availability varies by specific route and starting point. For routes around Strangford Lough or the Ards Peninsula, you can often find parking in nearby towns or designated car parks near trailheads. For forest parks like Drumkeeragh Forest, there are usually dedicated parking facilities. It's advisable to check the specific route details on komoot for recommended parking locations.
Can I find cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the cycling routes?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Drumhirk pass through or near charming villages and towns where you can find cafes, pubs, and other establishments for refreshments. Especially along the shores of Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula, there are numerous opportunities to stop and refuel. Checking the route details on komoot or local maps can help you plan your stops.
Are there any routes that offer panoramic viewpoints?
Absolutely. The region is known for its scenic vistas. Routes through Drumkeeragh Forest often provide panoramic views of the Mourne Mountains and Dundrum Bay. Coastal routes along Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula offer expansive views of the water and surrounding landscapes. The Strangford Lough Cycle Trail is particularly noted for its scenic views.
What is the longest touring cycling route available from Drumhirk?
One of the longer touring cycling routes is the Whiterock Harbour – Sketrick Castle Ruins loop from Movilla, which spans approximately 61.2 km (38 miles). This route offers an extensive exploration of coastal scenery and historical sites.
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