The best cycling routes around Derryloran
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Touring cycling around Derryloran, a civil parish primarily in County Tyrone, Northern Ireland, offers routes through varied landscapes. The area is characterized by its proximity to Lough Neagh, providing expansive water views, and the rolling countryside around Cookstown. To the west, the Sperrin Mountains present more challenging terrain with significant elevation changes. The region features a mix of rural roads, historical sites, and natural features like Gortin Glen, suitable for touring cyclists.
Best touring cycling routes around Derryloran
- The most…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
2
riders
28.1km
01:43
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
53.9km
04:03
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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20.8km
01:15
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. 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.
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Popular around Derryloran
Tips from the Community
For cyclists following the 'Lough Neagh Cycle Way' (National Cycle Route 94), the Maghery footbridge is an iconic resting point and an essential link. This elegant, modern bridge spans the mouth of the Upper Bann as it enters the lough.
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As you cycle through the rolling landscape of County Tyrone, the Wellbrook Beetling Mill is an absolute must for a stopover. Situated in an idyllic, wooded stream valley along the Ballinderry River, this 19th-century water mill provides a stark contrast to the tranquility of its surroundings. This is the last working 'beetling mill' in the United Kingdom. "Beetling" was the final step in traditional Irish linen production: using enormous wooden hammers (beetles), powered by a water wheel nearly five metres high, the linen was processed for hours until it acquired its characteristic sheen. When the mill is running, you can hear the rhythmic thudding from afar – an impressive sound that takes you straight back to the industrial heyday of Northern Ireland.
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High above Cookstown, at the foot of the impressive Sperrin Mountains, you will find the Beaghmore Stone Circles. This is one of Ireland's most fascinating archaeological sites. Only rediscovered in the 1940s during peat cutting, the bog revealed a complex of seven stone circles, ten stone rows, and numerous Bronze Age burial mounds. For a cyclist, the road to Beaghmore is an experience in itself. The route takes you away from the inhabited world into a vast, quiet landscape where the wind has free rein. The complex itself exudes an enormous sense of peace and is the perfect place to get off your bike and soak up the prehistoric atmosphere.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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/
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Frequently Asked Questions
What types of touring cycling routes can I find around Derryloran?
Around Derryloran, you'll discover a variety of touring cycling routes catering to different preferences. These include scenic loops offering views of Lough Neagh, paths through rural landscapes with historical sites, and more challenging routes that venture into the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains. The area features a mix of quiet country roads and developing cycling networks designed for shared use.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or a relaxed ride?
Yes, Derryloran offers several easy touring cycling routes. A popular choice is the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, an easy 17.4-mile (28.1 km) trail that provides beautiful views of Lough Neagh. Another excellent option is the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, which is 12.9 miles (20.8 km) and explores historical sites and rural landscapes.
Where can I find more challenging touring cycling routes in the Derryloran area?
For those seeking a more challenging touring cycling experience, the routes extending towards the Sperrin Mountains offer significant elevation changes. Consider The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, a difficult 33.5-mile (53.9 km) trail that leads through the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains. Another difficult option is the Maghery loop from Cookstown, which covers 44.7 miles (71.9 km) with substantial climbs.
What historical sites or landmarks can I explore while cycling around Derryloran?
The Derryloran area is rich in history, and several routes pass by interesting landmarks. You can visit Tullyhogue Fort, an ancient coronation site, or the ruins of Drum Manor House. The Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort specifically highlights these historical attractions.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Derryloran are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, and The Sperrins loop from Cookstown.
What natural features or scenic viewpoints can I expect on a touring cycle around Derryloran?
Touring cycling around Derryloran offers diverse natural beauty. You'll frequently encounter expansive views of Lough Neagh, the largest lake in the British Isles. Routes also traverse rolling countryside, and for more dramatic scenery, the foothills of the Sperrin Mountains provide rugged landscapes. Gortin Glen, with its babbling brooks and diverse wildlife, is also accessible in the wider region for a serene experience.
What is the best time of year for touring cycling in Derryloran?
The best time for touring cycling in Derryloran, like much of Northern Ireland, is typically during the warmer and drier months, from late spring (May) through early autumn (September). During this period, you can expect more favorable weather conditions, longer daylight hours, and the countryside to be in full bloom. However, always be prepared for changeable weather, regardless of the season.
Are there facilities for cyclists, such as bike repair or shops, in the Derryloran area?
Yes, the area around Derryloran, particularly in Cookstown, is supportive of cyclists. Local businesses like Cookstown Cycles, a family-run business, offer sales, servicing, and repairs for various types of bikes. Additionally, the broader Derry City & Strabane district is developing its cycling network, which includes plans for bike repair stations with pumps and basic tools.
Can I combine touring cycling with exploring forest parks or woodland trails?
Absolutely. The region offers opportunities to integrate forest exploration into your cycling trips. For instance, the Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail is a highlight in the area, providing a peaceful environment. While the cycling routes themselves might be on roads, you can easily detour or plan stops to explore these natural spaces.
What are the typical distances and durations for touring cycling routes around Derryloran?
The touring cycling routes around Derryloran vary in length and duration. Easy routes, such as the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, are around 17.4 miles (28.1 km) and can be completed in under two hours. More challenging routes, like The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, can be up to 33.5 miles (53.9 km) and take around four hours, while the Maghery loop from Cookstown is 44.7 miles (71.9 km) and takes over four hours.
How do other touring cyclists rate the routes in Derryloran?
A number of touring cyclists have explored the routes around Derryloran using komoot. The community appreciates the varied terrain, from the tranquil Lough Neagh views to the more demanding climbs in the Sperrin foothills, and the opportunity to discover historical sites along the way.
Are there options for moderate difficulty touring cycling routes?
Yes, for those looking for a middle ground between easy and difficult, there are moderate options. The Bike loop from Cookstown is a moderate 28.1-mile (45.2 km) route that offers a good balance of distance and elevation, typically taking around 2 hours 43 minutes to complete.
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