The best road cycling routes around Craigmore
127
riders
35
rides
Road cycling around Craigmore features a landscape characterized by rolling hills, agricultural lands, and historical sites. The region offers a mix of open countryside and routes that pass by significant natural features like Lough Neagh. Elevations vary, providing options from gentle gradients to more challenging climbs, with some routes reaching over 1,000 meters in ascent. The terrain is suitable for road cyclists seeking diverse experiences across Northern Ireland's rural environment.
Best road cycling routes around Craigmore
- The most popular road…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
7
riders
31.9km
01:21
220m
220m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
4
riders
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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5
riders
59.5km
02:26
370m
370m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
6
riders
100km
04:57
1,160m
1,160m
Hard road ride. Very good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
3
riders
110km
04:43
800m
810m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Craigmore
Tips from the Community
Dunluce Castle in Northern Ireland is an impressive ruin perched on a cliff above the sea. Its dramatic location and rugged rocky landscape lend the castle a special atmosphere. The remains tell a rich history and offer fascinating insights into medieval defensive architecture. The views of the sea and the surrounding nature make a visit an unforgettable experience. Dunluce Castle is a place that combines both history and nature in a striking way.
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De Burgh's castle was primarily a military fortress, notable for its robust defensive features typical of Norman architecture. The design included impressive walls and strategic positioning to take advantage of the natural defensive advantages of the clifftop location.
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A very impressive castle, part of which has collapsed into the sea along with the cliff. The visit can easily be combined with a visit to the Giant's Causeway.
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Learmount Wood is located at the foothills of the northern face of the Sperrins in Northern Ireland. The forest features a wonderful diversity of tree species, including some that have been there for over 100 years. It's a beautiful place for a stroll, featuring a stream and an abandoned mansion dating back to the 1830s.
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Learmount Castle is a stunning Tudor-Gothic mansion that was built in the 1830s by Henry Barré Beresford. The house is now abandoned, but you can still use your imagination to picture its grandeur when it was in all its glory.
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Contained within the ruins is a sculpture of the crucifixion, which is thought to date from the 10th Century, making it one of the oldest in Ireland. St Lurach founded an important church here in the 6th century. It was plundered by Vikings in 832 and burned in 1135. Following the 12th-century ecclesiastical reforms this was the seat of a bishop from the mid 12th to the mid 13th century, then served as parish church until the new church across the road was built in the early 19th century. This long history is reflected in the much patched and altered fabric, and the big uneven graveyard.
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The Blue Flag awarded beach is extremely popular with surfers, body boarders and kayakers. If you fancy a go there is a seasonal outlet shop that provides equipment for hire.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Craigmore?
There are over 35 road cycling routes around Craigmore, offering a wide range of experiences for different skill levels.
Are there easy road cycling routes suitable for beginners in Craigmore?
Yes, Craigmore offers several easy road cycling routes. For instance, the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Maghera is an easy 19.8-mile (31.9 km) trail with gentle gradients through rural landscapes, perfect for those new to road cycling.
What are some challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders in Craigmore?
For experienced riders seeking a challenge, Craigmore has routes with significant elevation gain. The Learmount Wood – Learmount Castle loop from Maghera is a difficult 62.1-mile (100 km) route featuring over 1,150 meters of ascent, providing a demanding ride through varied terrain.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Craigmore?
Many of the road cycling routes in Craigmore are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the View of Lough Neagh – Lough Neagh loop from Maghera and the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Maghera.
What kind of scenery can I expect on road cycling routes in Craigmore?
Road cycling around Craigmore features a diverse landscape characterized by rolling hills, extensive agricultural lands, and historical sites. Many routes also offer scenic views of significant natural features like Lough Neagh, providing a mix of open countryside and water vistas.
Are there long-distance road cycling routes in the Craigmore area?
Yes, Craigmore offers several longer routes for endurance cyclists. The Bench Under a Large Tree – An Creagan Visitor Centre loop from Maghera is a moderate 64.6-mile (104.0 km) path that traverses varied terrain, ideal for a full day's ride.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Craigmore?
The best time for road cycling in Craigmore is typically during the spring, summer, and early autumn months when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. However, the region's varied terrain can be enjoyed year-round, with appropriate gear for cooler or wetter conditions.
Are there any routes that pass by historical sites or points of interest?
Many routes in Craigmore pass by historical sites and points of interest. For example, the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop from Maghera takes you past ancient ruins, offering a glimpse into the region's heritage while you ride.
What are the typical durations for road cycling routes in Craigmore?
Route durations vary significantly based on distance and difficulty. Easy routes like the St Lurach's Church Ruins loop can be completed in about 1 hour 20 minutes, while longer, moderate routes such as the View of Lough Neagh loop might take around 2 hours 30 minutes or more for the full 37 miles.
Are there road cycling routes that offer viewpoints or panoramic vistas?
Absolutely. The region's rolling hills and proximity to Lough Neagh provide numerous opportunities for scenic viewpoints. The View of Lough Neagh – Lough Neagh loop from Maghera is specifically designed to showcase stunning views of the lough.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about road cycling in Craigmore?
Road cyclists using komoot often praise Craigmore for its diverse terrain, which caters to various skill levels, and the beautiful, open countryside. The routes alongside Lough Neagh are particularly popular for their scenic beauty and tranquil atmosphere.
Are there any road cycling routes that pass by visitor centers or amenities?
Yes, some routes are designed to pass by visitor centers, which can offer amenities and information. The Bench Under a Large Tree – An Creagan Visitor Centre loop from Maghera includes sections near visitor centers, providing convenient stops along your ride.
Most popular routes around Craigmore
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