The best cycling routes around Ballyclan
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Touring cycling routes around Ballyclan traverse a landscape characterized by the expansive Lough Neagh, river valleys, and parklands. The region offers varied terrain, from flat paths along the lough shore to routes with moderate elevation gains through the surrounding countryside. Green spaces and historic gardens provide scenic backdrops for many rides.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballyclan
- The most popular touring cycling route is Lap the Lough loop from Portadown, a 86.4 miles (139.0 km) trail that takes about…
Last updated: August 19, 2026
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riders
139km
08:08
560m
560m
Embark on the difficult Lap the Lough loop from Portadown, a touring bicycle route that spans 86.4 miles (139.0 km) with 1828 feet (557 metres) of elevation gain. This journey…
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25.2km
01:30
130m
130m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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6
riders
58.4km
03:25
300m
300m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
2
riders
47.8km
03:01
560m
560m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ballyclan
Tips from the Community
Need water proof gear heavy rain Crumlin, I just cycled on as I’ve stated skin is water proof
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Perhaps the most significant development of the strike occurred when Sands entered the election campaign for a seat in the Parliament for Northern Ireland's County of Fermanagh and South Tyrone. On 10 April, after 41 days of hunger strike and to the great shock of the IRA leadership, Sands won the seat by more than 30,000 votes. His election sent shockwaves throughout Ireland and within the British government. After all, Britain's criminalisation policy was based on its claims that the IRA had little public support and was a gang of renegade criminals. Despite Sands' new political status as an MP and mounting public pressure, the British government under Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher refused to take even a step towards reconciliation. Sands' condition continued to deteriorate and he remained confined to the prison infirmary. Eventually, on 3 May, Sands fell into a coma. His family was called to visit and on Tuesday, May 5, 1981, Sands died after 66 days on hunger strike. Sands' death sparked enormous reactions around the world. Hundreds of thousands demonstrated in support of the prisoners' demands, the US government issued a statement of "deep regret", Irish unions went on strike, newspapers around the world condemned Thatcher's "glory" in allowing a parliamentary colleague to die, and riots broke out in the streets of Northern Ireland. His funeral procession was attended by more than 100,000 people. After Sands, nine more prisoners died before the hunger strike was finally ended on October 3, 1981. Shortly afterwards, all prisoners were granted reforms that largely met their demands.(Source: https://www.britannica.com/biography/Bobby-Sands)
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Robert Gerard Sands (Irish: Roibeárd Gearóid Ó Seachnasaigh; [2] 9 March 1954 – 5 May 1981) was a member of the Provisional Irish Republican Army (IRA) who died on hunger strike while imprisoned in HM Prison Maze in Northern Ireland. Sands was involved in planning the 1976 bombing of the Balmoral Furniture Company in Dunmurry, which was followed by a gun battle with the Royal Ulster Constabulary. Sands was arrested during an escape attempt and sentenced to 14 years' imprisonment for possession of weapons. He was the leader of the 1981 hunger strike in which Irish republican prisoners protested against the abolition of Special Category Status. During Sands' strike he was elected to the British Parliament as a candidate of the Anti-H-Block movement. [3] [4] His death and that of nine other hunger strikers was followed by a wave of IRA recruitment and activity. International media coverage drew attention to the hunger strikers and the republican movement in general, drawing both praise and criticism. (Source: Wikipedia)
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The Garden of Remembrance (Irish: An Gairdín Cuimhneacháin) is a memorial garden in Belfast, Northern Ireland, dedicated to members of the Irish Republican Army killed during the Northern Ireland conflict, as well as civilians and deceased former prisoners. It is located on the Falls Road, which was historically a predominantly Irish Republican area during the conflict (source: Wikipedia).
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Bobby Sands is pretty omnipresent. A very well-known and popular personality.
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Not the most beautiful area for running, but definitely steeped in history 👍
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Frequently Asked Questions
Are there easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families in Ballyclan?
Yes, Ballyclan offers easy touring cycling routes perfect for beginners or families. For instance, the Foxes Pub – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Crookedstone Road is an easy 15.7-mile (25.2 km) trail that takes about 1 hour 29 minutes, leading through parkland and rural areas.
What are the typical distances for touring cycling routes around Ballyclan?
Touring cycling routes in Ballyclan vary significantly in length. You can find shorter options like the 15.7-mile (25.2 km) Foxes Pub – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Crookedstone Road, up to extensive rides such as the 86.4-mile (139.0 km) Lap the Lough loop from Portadown.
Can I find circular touring cycling routes in Ballyclan?
Yes, many touring cycling routes around Ballyclan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. A notable example is the View of Lough Shore – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Ballinderry Upper, a moderate 36.3-mile (58.4 km) path that combines lough shore scenery with historic gardens.
What is the best season for touring cycling in Ballyclan?
The best season for touring cycling in Ballyclan is generally spring through autumn (April to October), when the weather is milder and the natural landscapes, including Lough Neagh and various parklands, are at their most vibrant. While some routes are accessible year-round, winter cycling may present colder temperatures and shorter daylight hours.
Are there any routes that offer views of Lough Neagh?
Absolutely. The region is characterized by the expansive Lough Neagh, and several routes offer stunning views of the lough. The Lap the Lough loop from Portadown is a prime example, providing extensive views of Lough Neagh over its 86.4-mile (139.0 km) course.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Ballyclan?
The terrain around Ballyclan is varied. You can expect flat paths along the Lough Neagh shore, routes through river valleys, and parklands. Some routes also feature moderate elevation gains as they traverse the surrounding countryside, offering a mix of challenges for different skill levels.
Are there any routes that pass through historic sites or gardens?
Yes, Ballyclan's touring cycling routes often incorporate historic sites and beautiful gardens. The View of Lough Shore – Antrim Castle Gardens loop from Ballinderry Upper, for instance, specifically highlights the historic Antrim Castle Gardens as part of its scenic journey.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy the most about touring cycling in Ballyclan?
The komoot community rates touring cycling in Ballyclan highly, with an average score of 3.0 stars. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscape, from the expansive Lough Neagh views to the tranquil river valleys and green parklands, offering a refreshing escape into nature.
Are there any challenging long-distance touring cycling routes in Ballyclan?
Yes, for experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, Ballyclan offers several difficult long-distance routes. The Lap the Lough loop from Portadown is a difficult 86.4-mile (139.0 km) route, and the Lagan Meadows Nature Reserve – Shaw’s Bridge loop from Adelaide is another difficult option at 60.5 miles (97.3 km).
Can I expect to see wildlife on touring cycling routes in Ballyclan?
Given the region's natural characteristics, including Lough Neagh, river valleys, and nature reserves like Lagan Meadows, there are opportunities to observe local wildlife. Cyclists might encounter various bird species, especially near water bodies, and other small animals in the parklands and rural areas.
How many touring cycling routes are available in the Ballyclan area?
There are over 5 touring cycling routes documented in the Ballyclan area, catering to various skill levels from easy to difficult. These routes allow you to explore the diverse landscapes of the region.
Are there any routes that explore urban or cultural landmarks?
While many routes focus on natural landscapes, some also pass by cultural points of interest. For example, the Bobby Sands mural loop from Crumlin is a difficult 29.3-mile (47.1 km) route that offers a different perspective, incorporating a notable cultural landmark.
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