4.7
(46)
549
riders
63
rides
Touring cycling routes around Ballyhenny are primarily characterized by their proximity to Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula. The terrain generally features gentle undulations, with some moderate climbs, offering varied cycling experiences. Routes often follow coastal paths and rural roads, providing views of the lough and surrounding countryside. The area includes nature reserves and historic sites, contributing to a diverse landscape for cyclists.
Last updated: August 13, 2026
39.0km
02:16
210m
210m
Cycle the moderate 24.2-mile Ards Peninsula quarter loop from Newtownards, enjoying coastal views and Mount Stewart Gardens.
47.7km
03:26
310m
310m
Cycle the moderate 29.7-mile Strangford Lough Cycle Trail, exploring coastal views, farmland, and historic sites like Nendrum Monastery.

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5.0
(2)
31
riders
34.0km
02:02
240m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
10
riders
77.4km
04:31
410m
410m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
12
riders
31.2km
01:53
260m
260m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ballyhenny
Burr Point marks the most easterly point on the island of Ireland. The spot is marked by a coastal sculpture by artist Ned Jackson Smyth. You can rest up in the sheltered cove which has a well-kept toilet and changing facilities close by.
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Carrowdore Castle Gate is one of the original 19th-century entrance lodges to the Carrowdore Castle estate in County Down. Built in a Gothic style, it features a castellated parapet and turret-like details that echo the look of the main house. Today it stands as one of the most distinctive remnants of the castle complex, marking the historic gateway to the estate.
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Here, in the middle of the city, the characters from The Chronicles of Narnia come to life in the form of impressive bronze sculptures. As a cyclist, you pass right by the square and can pause for a moment to immerse yourself in this fantastic world. The sculptures of Aslan, the mighty lion, and the White Witch's throne in particular attract attention. The details of the figures are impressive and give the characters a special presence. The square is not only a place for literature lovers, but also an interesting work of art in the open air - a change from the usual sights. CS Lewis, the famous writer and son of the city, is omnipresent here and also makes this place a small piece of Belfast history.
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Nendrum Monastery was a Christian monastery founded in the 5th century. The monastery finished somewhere between 974 and 1178, but the church survived until the 15th century. You can visit the ruins if you're riding past.
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Visitors to Corrog Wood will be greeted by a curious wooden sculpture of a Dryad. The sculpture has been affectionately named the ‘Frump in the Stump’. A dryad is a tree nymph in Greek mythology. The Dryad keeps a watchful, protective eye on the new wood standing at the entrance. Continue past the Dryad on through the little kissing gate and a loop pathway will be waiting to lead you around the 14-acre wood, where a mix of approximately 12,000 native trees and 400 metres of hedging have been planted.
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A pathway along the lake allows for closer inspection of the birds. For example, swans, mallards, little grebe, moorhens, and coots are usually present. There is an observation area to view the birds and other wildlife. Parking is available. In July 2000, Kiltonga Nature Reserve became the first site in the UK to be awarded BT Millennium Miles status.
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The Marina is a nature reserve of unparalleled beauty, it is a good starting point on which to explore the Lough.
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Portaferry ( from Port an Pheire 'landing place of the ferry' ) is a small town in County down, at the southern end of the Ards Peninsula, near the Narrows at the entrance to Strangford Lough. It hosts its own small Marina, From where the The Ferry service operates daily at 30-minute intervals (7.45 am to 10.45 pm) between the villages of Portaferry and Strangford. The Lough being one of the world's most important marine sites with over 2,000 marine species. There are fine Georgian buildings in the town square, including a Market House, now used as a community centre. Portaferry Castle, a 16th-century townhouse ruin, sits atop a slope overlooking the Harbour.
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The touring cycling routes around Ballyhenny are primarily characterized by their proximity to Strangford Lough and the Ards Peninsula. You can expect gentle undulations, with some moderate climbs. Routes often follow coastal paths and rural roads, providing extensive views of the lough and surrounding countryside.
There are over 70 touring cycling routes available around Ballyhenny, catering to various skill levels and preferences. These include 20 easy routes, 36 moderate routes, and 15 more challenging options.
Yes, Ballyhenny offers several family-friendly touring cycling routes, particularly among the 20 easy-graded options. These routes typically feature flatter terrain and quieter roads, ideal for a relaxed ride with children. While specific family-focused routes aren't detailed here, look for routes with lower elevation gain and shorter distances.
Yes, many touring cycling routes in the Ballyhenny area are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. An example is the Whiterock Harbour – Nendrum Monastic Site Ruins loop from Newtownards, which offers a scenic journey through lough-side scenery and past historic ruins.
The Ballyhenny area is rich in natural beauty and historical sites. Along your routes, you might encounter landmarks such as Grey Point Fort, the historic Ballycopeland Windmill, or the impressive Helen's Tower. The Comber Greenway also offers a dedicated cycling path.
The best time for touring cycling in Ballyhenny is generally from spring through early autumn (April to October). During these months, the weather is typically milder and drier, making for more comfortable riding conditions and better visibility of the scenic lough and coastal views. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Absolutely. The region's touring cycling is defined by its lough-side trails. The Strangford Lough Cycle Trail is a prime example, offering extensive views along the shores of Strangford Lough and showcasing the area's natural beauty.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.6 stars from over 40 reviews. Reviewers often praise the diverse landscapes, including lough-side trails, coastal paths, and rural roads, as well as the variety of routes catering to different ability levels.
Yes, for experienced riders seeking a challenge, Ballyhenny offers 15 difficult-graded touring cycling routes. An example is the Whiterock Harbour – Sketrick Castle Ruins loop from Movilla, which covers a significant distance and elevation, providing a more demanding experience.
Yes, the Ballyhenny area includes nature reserves, offering opportunities to cycle through protected natural environments. For instance, the Kiltonga Nature Reserve Lake – Orangefield Park loop from Newtownards allows you to experience the tranquility of a nature reserve while cycling.
The duration of touring cycling routes in Ballyhenny varies significantly depending on the route's length and your pace. For example, the Ards Peninsula quarter loop from Newtownards typically takes around 2 hours and 16 minutes, while longer routes can extend to 3 hours or more.


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