4.9
(6)
995
riders
118
rides
Road cycling around Shankill, Dublin, offers diverse landscapes ranging from coastal paths to the foothills of the Dublin Mountains. The area provides varied terrain for cyclists, with well-paved surfaces and some segments that may be unpaved. Carrickgollogan Hill, at 278 meters, is a prominent natural landmark to the west, contributing to the region's varied elevation. Shankill's coastal proximity also provides scenic views along routes extending towards areas like Killiney and Dalkey.
Last updated: July 11, 2026
42
riders
91.2km
03:48
550m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
34
riders
36.1km
01:42
390m
390m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.

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28
riders
57.2km
02:26
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
9
riders
40.7km
01:45
290m
290m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
10
riders
49.0km
02:17
550m
550m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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The Crack Bridge, also known as Fearon’s Bridge, is one of the most characteristic stone arch bridges over the Newry Canal. This historic structure is located on a beautiful, secluded section of the towpath between Poyntzpass and Jerrettspass. This robust, semi-circular arch bridge from the 18th century is built from locally quarried stone and forms an iconic image along the Newry Canal Towpath. The bridge was originally built to give local farmers and their livestock access to the farmlands on both sides of the canal without hindering navigation.
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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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The Newry Canal Towpath is a 32-kilometer-long, almost entirely traffic-free green corridor connecting the towns of Portadown and Newry. It follows the towpath of the oldest canal in the British Isles, opened in 1742 to transport coal from County Tyrone to the sea. The Newry Canal Towpath offers an unparalleled cycling experience through the tranquil heart of County Armagh and County Down. This historic route, part of the National Cycle Network Route 9, takes you along a flat and largely asphalted path past fourteen monumental locks and characteristic lock-keeper's cottages. As you follow the waterway, you'll traverse a varied landscape of dense forests and open meadows, passing through welcoming villages like Scarva and Poyntzpass along the way. The path is a haven for wildlife; keep an eye out for kingfishers, swans, and otters that inhabit the reed beds. Whether you cycle the full 32 kilometers or explore just a section, the combination of industrial history and natural beauty makes this one of the absolute gems of Irish cycling routes.
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Nice little cafe in the village of Scarva right alongside the Newry canal towpath, great for brekkie, lunch or just topping up the hydration.
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Hollie Berrie is a good place for refreshments on the route at Scarva
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There are over 120 road cycling routes available around Shankill, catering to various skill levels. You'll find a wide selection of paths to explore the region's diverse landscapes.
Shankill offers a range of road cycling routes suitable for different fitness levels. You'll find approximately 22 easy routes, around 78 moderate routes, and 29 more challenging options with significant elevation gains, especially towards the Dublin Mountains.
Yes, for those seeking a challenge, Shankill's proximity to the Dublin Mountains provides routes with notable elevation gains. For example, the Warrenpoint Shore Road – The Yard Café loop from Creevy includes over 590 meters of ascent, offering a good workout amidst scenic surroundings.
Road cycling routes around Shankill offer a blend of coastal views and inland scenery. You can expect picturesque coastal paths extending towards areas like Killiney and Dalkey, as well as varied terrain leading into the foothills of the Dublin Mountains. Carrickgollogan Hill, a prominent natural landmark, also contributes to the scenic backdrop.
Yes, the region around Shankill has several interesting historical sites. While cycling, you might encounter places like Scarva Village or the Loughbrickland Crannóg. The area also has ancient forts (ráths) and stone monuments (cromlechs), and the old Ballycorus Leadmines are to the northwest of Shankill, offering a glimpse into the region's past.
The road cycling routes in Shankill are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 6 reviews. Cyclists often praise the diverse landscapes, which combine coastal paths with the varied terrain of the Dublin Mountains, and the well-paved surfaces found on many routes.
Yes, many road cycling routes around Shankill are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. An example is the Scarva Village – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Loughbrickland, which is a popular moderate route covering nearly 93 km.
While many routes in Shankill involve varied terrain and some elevation, there are options suitable for families. Look for routes categorized as 'easy' within the komoot guide, which typically feature less challenging gradients and shorter distances, providing a more relaxed cycling experience.
The best time for road biking in Shankill, like much of Ireland, is generally during the warmer and drier months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, you'll typically experience more favorable weather conditions and longer daylight hours, making for more enjoyable rides.
Shankill is a suburb of Dublin with public transport links, making it possible to access cycling routes. You can research local DART (Dublin Area Rapid Transit) or bus services that allow bikes or provide convenient access points to start your road cycling adventure from Shankill.
While specific cafes and pubs directly on every route are not detailed, Shankill and its surrounding villages offer various establishments where cyclists can stop for refreshments. You can plan your route to pass through areas like Scarva Village, which features places like Scarva Village itself, or other local spots for a break.
The length of road bike trails near Shankill varies significantly. You can find shorter routes, such as the The Yard Café – Loughbrickland Crannóg loop from Banbridge at approximately 36 km, to much longer excursions like the Scarva Village – Warrenpoint Shore Road loop from Loughbrickland, which is nearly 93 km. This variety allows cyclists to choose routes that match their desired duration and fitness level.


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