The best road cycling routes around Ballyrickard
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1,196
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103
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Road cycling around Ballyrickard, located in County Down, Northern Ireland, offers routes through picturesque landscapes bordering Strangford Lough. The terrain features scenic coastal views, fertile farmlands, and open countryside, providing a varied backdrop for rides. The broader Ards and North Down region, where Ballyrickard is situated, is characterized by a stunning coastline and diverse natural features. This area provides opportunities for both gentle coastal rides and more demanding journeys across the surrounding countryside.
Best road cycling routes around Ballyrickard
- The…
Last updated: May 7, 2026
29
riders
66.6km
02:42
350m
350m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
24
riders
77.1km
03:08
440m
440m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Some segments of this route may be unpaved and difficult to ride.
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16
riders
21.8km
00:58
100m
100m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
14
riders
11.4km
00:26
30m
30m
Easy road ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
7
riders
52.8km
02:19
330m
330m
Moderate road ride. Good fitness required. Mostly well-paved surfaces and easy to ride.
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Popular around Ballyrickard
Tips from the Community
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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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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This tower-house, said to have been built in 1570 by an English soldier, Captain Browne, is badly ruined but is still of considerable interest. Rectangular and fairly small in ground plan, it was entered by a door in the north-west wall which has a draw bar socket and a murder-hole. To the left of the door was a stair to the next floor. There are two ground floor rooms, the larger with a semi-circular vault built on plank centring and the smaller with a pointed vault built on paired wicker mats. The smaller room, once thought to be a secure boat bay, may be just a storeroom (compare nearby Sketrick). There were two storeys above, but the upper parts are ruined. Part of the bawn wall survives to the south-west, cut into the hill.
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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 by just how much there is to see and do including a Cafe / Gallery, plenty of walks, and places to just sit and take it all in.
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Always worth the ascent. If only for the view towards Sliev Croob and the Mournes. Beautiful patch work of swollen hills, cut by colourful fields, that meander all the way to the shore of Strangford Lough below. There are several interesting woodland gravel trails in the woods, connecting to Scrabo, and Ards. Twilight is magic up here. Smooth tarmac Decent down to Ards via Scrabo Road is a joy, with the tower on your left, and the sprawling Lough, and Newtownards to your right.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many road cycling routes are available around Ballyrickard?
There are over 100 road cycling routes around Ballyrickard, offering a wide range of options for cyclists. These include 26 easy routes and 82 moderate routes, ensuring there's something for every skill level.
What kind of terrain and difficulty can I expect on road cycling routes in Ballyrickard?
Road cycling around Ballyrickard features a mix of scenic coastal paths along Strangford Lough, fertile farmlands, and open countryside. The terrain is generally well-paved, with routes ranging from easy, flat rides to moderate journeys that include some elevation gain, particularly when exploring the broader Ards and North Down region. There are no difficult routes listed, making it accessible for most road cyclists.
Are there any family-friendly road cycling routes near Ballyrickard?
Yes, Ballyrickard and the surrounding area offer several family-friendly options. The Bike Path to Belfast – Peartree Hill Path loop from Comber is an easy route that follows a dedicated path, ideal for a leisurely family ride. Another easy option is the Bike Path to Belfast loop from Comber, which is shorter and also uses a dedicated path.
What are some notable landmarks or viewpoints I can see while road cycling in Ballyrickard?
Road cycling routes around Ballyrickard offer views of several significant landmarks and natural features. You can cycle past historic sites like Sketrick Castle and the ancient Nendrum Monastery Ruins, both offering stunning views of Strangford Lough. The iconic Scrabo Tower is also often visible from various points along the routes, such as the View of Scrabo Tower from Ballydrain Road. Coastal routes also provide picturesque views of Whiterock Harbour and Ballydorn Bay & Lightship LV Petrel.
Are there any circular road cycling routes around Ballyrickard?
Yes, many of the road cycling routes around Ballyrickard are designed as loops. For example, the popular Ballycopeland Windmill – Craigboye Road loop from Newtownards Aerodrome takes you past the historic Ballycopeland Windmill. Another great option is the View of Portaferry Harbor loop from Newtownards Aerodrome, offering coastal vistas.
What do other road cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ballyrickard?
The road cycling routes in Ballyrickard are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Cyclists frequently praise the diverse scenery, which includes coastal views of Strangford Lough, tranquil farmlands, and open countryside. The variety of routes, from easy dedicated paths to more challenging rural roads, is also a highlight for many.
What is the best time of year for road cycling in Ballyrickard?
The region around Ballyrickard, including County Down, is generally pleasant for road cycling from spring through autumn. These seasons offer milder temperatures and longer daylight hours, making for more comfortable rides. While winter cycling is possible, be prepared for cooler temperatures and potentially wet conditions.
Are there options for beginner road cyclists in Ballyrickard?
Absolutely. Beginners can enjoy several easy routes, particularly those that utilize dedicated cycle paths. The Mahee Castle – Nendrum Monastery Ruins loop from Comber is an easy route that offers historical sights with minimal elevation gain, perfect for those new to road cycling.
Where can I find cafes or pubs for cyclists near Ballyrickard?
While Ballyrickard itself is a small townland, the nearby towns of Comber and Newtownards, as well as areas around Strangford Lough, offer various cafes and pubs that are welcoming to cyclists. These towns are often starting or ending points for routes, providing convenient spots for refreshments and meals.
Is there public transport available to Ballyrickard for cyclists with bikes?
Public transport options to Ballyrickard and the surrounding County Down area are available, though it's advisable to check specific bus or train operator policies regarding carrying bicycles. Services often connect major towns like Comber and Newtownards, which are good access points for the cycling routes. Planning ahead with the transport provider is recommended.
Are there any longer, more challenging road cycling routes for experienced riders?
For more experienced riders seeking longer distances and moderate challenges, routes like the Ballycopeland Windmill – Craigboye Road loop from Newtownards Aerodrome (39.8 miles) or the View of Portaferry Harbor loop from Newtownards Aerodrome (42.2 miles) offer extended rides with varied terrain and some elevation. These routes traverse rural roads and coastal areas, providing a more demanding experience.
Can I find routes that explore the Comber Greenway from Ballyrickard?
Yes, the Comber Greenway, a popular traffic-free path, is accessible from the wider region and can be incorporated into rides originating near Ballyrickard. Routes like the Bike Path to Belfast – Peartree Hill Path loop from Comber utilize sections of this greenway, offering a smooth and scenic ride away from traffic.
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