Sketrick Castle – Whiterock Harbour loop from Ballygowan

Routes

Bike touring routes & trails

Sketrick Castle – Whiterock Harbour loop from Ballygowan

Moderate

riders

Sketrick Castle – Whiterock Harbour loop from Ballygowan

03:00

50.2km

370m

Cycling

Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels. The starting point of the route is accessible with public transport.

Last updated: August 27, 2026

Tips

Your route passes through protected areas

Please check local regulations for:

Strangford & Lecale AONB

Mourne Gullion Strangford UNESCO Global Geopark

Waypoints

Start point

Bus stop

Get Directions

7.85 km

View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road

Highlight (Segment) • Lake

Picturesque rolling trail through Barley fields, and vistas of the beautiful Strangford Lough always present. Hosts great views of Scrabo Tower in the distance, and if you catch this trail …

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11.1 km

WWT Castle Espie Wetland Centre

Highlight • Natural

WWT Castle Espie is home to the largest collection of ducks, geese and swans in Ireland. Wide open spaces, and wetlands full of the sights and sounds of nature.

Surprised …

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14.3 km

Tullynakill Church Ruins

Highlight • Religious Site

You may just miss it on your ride, as its tucked away down a small lane, but really worth a stop.

Has an early version of a burial cage on …

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18.2 km

Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel

Highlight • Monument

If you get caught in a rain shower, there is decent shelter to be had, just opposite the moorings around the same position as this Highlight. The view will keep you settled.

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18.5 km

Sketrick Castle

Highlight • Castle

Sketrick Castkle is a historic landmark situated on Sketrick Island near Whiterock. The castle dates back to the 12th century and the grounds are free to explore.

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18.7 km

Daft Eddy's Café at Whiterock Bay

Highlight • Cafe

Stop off at Daft Eddy’s for a coffee & bun.

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20.1 km

Whiterock Harbour

Highlight • Settlement

It's home to two yacht clubs: Strangford Lough Yacht Club and 1.5 kilometres (0.95 mi) to the north, Down Cruising Club. Between the two yacht clubs is Sketrick Castle, a …

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24.2 km