The best cycling routes around Ballymully
5
riders
7
rides
Touring cycling routes around Ballymully traverse a landscape characterized by varied terrain, including the shores of Lough Neagh and the rolling hills of County Tyrone. The region offers a mix of paved roads and quiet country lanes, providing routes that range from gentle lakeside paths to more challenging ascents into areas like the Sperrins. Cyclists can expect to encounter agricultural lands, small villages, and historical sites, with routes often featuring moderate elevation changes.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballymully
- The…
Last updated: May 17, 2026
1
riders
28.1km
01:43
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
20.8km
01:15
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Sign up for free
53.9km
04:03
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
72.0km
04:22
540m
530m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
4
riders
45.2km
02:43
330m
330m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
Get access to more routes and recommendations from other explorers.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Popular around Ballymully
Tips from the Community
The Maghery Footbridge on the edge of Lough Neagh offers a small moment of peace in the midst of the expansive landscape. As you cross the bridge, your gaze glides over the gentle waters of the largest lake in the British Isles. In good weather, the clouds are impressively reflected on the surface of the water, making the scene look almost like a painting. Even when the sky is cloudy, the lake has a special atmosphere that invites you to linger rather than to quickly pass by. The paths around the bridge are mostly flat, but you should be prepared for occasional sections with unpaved surfaces. This could be a bit slippery, especially in wet weather, but this is not a problem. The connection to the National Cycle Network, Route 94, also offers you many other opportunities to explore the area. A little tip: Maghery itself does not have much to offer apart from the bridge, but a short detour to the nearby Oxford Island nature reserve is definitely worth it. This means you can easily combine a visit to the bridge with a larger circular tour.
2
0
Beaghmore (Bheitheach Mhór), meaning ‘big place of birch trees’. The stones speak of ancient rituals and to a people who understood astronomy. When you visit this ancient site look up in wonder at the sky and reflect, that the people that built these monuments observed the same sky, sun, moon and stars.
0
0
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.
0
0
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.
0
0
Built in 1802, Killymoon Castle was built to replace a 17th century castle which was destroyed by fire in 1801. James Nash was the designer, who also designed Buckingham Palace in London. Tours are available but must be pre-booked, as is afternoon tea in the castle tea rooms. See the website for more details https://killymooncastle.com/
0
0
Near the banks of Lough Neagh stands Ardboe High Cross. Take a close look at the carvings on the cross which represent both the Old and New Testament. A monastery was founded here in the 6th century by St Colman and legend has it that it was created by the milk of a magic cow. Ardboe means hill of the cow, so who knows!
2
0
A little waterside detour will take you to visit The Battery, a marina on Lough Neagh. You can grab at drink at the Battery Bar or take a seat on one of the many picnic benches and breathe in the peace and calm.
1
0
There are 7 stone circles, 12 cairns and 10 rows of stones here at Beaghamore. In total 1269 stones were discovered under the peat during the 1930s. The site dates back to 2900 - 2600 BC.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballymully?
There are 7 touring cycling routes around Ballymully documented on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, including the shores of Lough Neagh and the rolling hills of County Tyrone.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Ballymully offers several easy touring cycling routes. A great option is the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, an easy 28.1 km path that follows the scenic Lough Neagh shoreline. Another family-friendly choice is the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, which is 20.8 km and explores historical sites and rural landscapes.
What kind of landscapes can I expect to see on touring cycling routes in the Ballymully area?
The Ballymully area offers a captivating mix of coastal and inland scenery. Cyclists can expect to see the shores of Lough Neagh, rolling hills, agricultural lands, and small villages. The broader region also features breathtaking views along the Antrim Coastline, with winding roads, beautiful beaches, deep glens, and lush forest parks. Panoramic views of the Irish Sea, Mourne Mountains, and Ards Peninsula are also possible.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. For experienced cyclists looking for a challenge, the Ballymully area provides routes with significant elevation gain. The The Sperrins loop from Cookstown is a difficult 53.9 km trail leading through the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains. Another demanding option is the Maghery loop from Cookstown, a 71.9 km route also rated as difficult.
What historical sites or landmarks can I explore while cycling near Ballymully?
The region is rich in history. The Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort specifically highlights historical sites. You can also find ancient megalithic tombs, romantic castle ruins, and the historic Quoile Bridge in the wider area. Near Ballymully, you can visit the Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Ballymully area?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Ballymully are designed as loops, making them convenient for starting and ending at the same point. Examples include the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, and the The Sperrins loop from Cookstown.
What natural attractions or viewpoints can be found along touring cycling routes?
Cyclists can enjoy a variety of natural attractions and viewpoints. Routes often provide scenic views of Lough Neagh. In the wider region, you might encounter the Glens of Antrim, Lough Money, and Kilbroney Park with its panoramic views over Carlingford Lough. Near Ballymully, you can find Lough Fea and several viewpoints like View of the Gallion Mountains and County Londonderry and View from Slieve Gallion.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ballymully?
Touring cyclists who have explored Ballymully with komoot often appreciate the region's quiet country roads, lakeside paths, and rolling hills. The network offers options for different ability levels, from easy loops to more difficult routes with significant elevation gain, showcasing the best of the region's varied landscape.
Are there any specific points of interest or summits to aim for on a touring bike ride?
Yes, for those looking for specific points of interest, the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort offers historical landmarks. If you're interested in summits and views, the Slieve Gallion NE Top Summit is a notable point in the area, offering expansive vistas.
What is the longest touring cycling route available around Ballymully?
The longest touring cycling route currently available around Ballymully is the Maghery loop from Cookstown. This challenging route spans approximately 71.9 km (44.7 miles) and typically takes around 4 hours and 22 minutes to complete.
Are there any moderate touring cycling routes for those seeking a balanced challenge?
Yes, for cyclists looking for a route that offers a good balance between ease and challenge, the Bike loop from Cookstown is a moderate option. This route covers approximately 45.2 km (28.1 miles) and can typically be completed in about 2 hours and 43 minutes, featuring varied terrain without extreme difficulty.
Most popular routes around Ballymully
Most popular attractions around Ballymully
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Browse the best Cycling routes in other regions.
