The best cycling routes around Magherascullion
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Touring cycling around Magherascullion offers routes through diverse landscapes in County Londonderry and the broader Mid Ulster region. The area features varied topography, including the Sperrin Mountains, Europe's largest freshwater lake Lough Neagh, and numerous woodlands. Cyclists can expect a mix of flat county lanes, riverside paths, and more challenging ascents. The region's natural features provide a range of terrain for different cycling preferences.
Best touring cycling routes around Magherascullion
- The most popular touring cycling route is Loughshore Trail: Ardboe…
Last updated: May 13, 2026
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riders
28.1km
01:43
140m
140m
Cycle the easy 17.4-mile Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, enjoying Lough Neagh views and the ancient Ardboe High Cross.
20.8km
01:15
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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53.9km
04:03
560m
560m
This difficult 33.5-mile touring cycling loop from Cookstown offers challenging climbs and stunning Sperrins scenery, including ancient ston
72.0km
04:22
540m
530m
This difficult 44.7-mile touring bicycle loop from Cookstown offers 1756 feet of elevation gain around Lough Neagh, taking about 4 hours 22
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 Magherascullion
Tips from the Community
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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Near the banks of Lough Neagh stands Ardboe High Cross. Take a close look at the carvings on the cross which represent both the Old and New Testament. A monastery was founded here in the 6th century by St Colman and legend has it that it was created by the milk of a magic cow. Ardboe means hill of the cow, so who knows!
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A little waterside detour will take you to visit The Battery, a marina on Lough Neagh. You can grab at drink at the Battery Bar or take a seat on one of the many picnic benches and breathe in the peace and calm.
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There are 7 stone circles, 12 cairns and 10 rows of stones here at Beaghamore. In total 1269 stones were discovered under the peat during the 1930s. The site dates back to 2900 - 2600 BC.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Magherascullion?
There are over 7 touring cycling routes around Magherascullion, offering a range of experiences from easy lakeside rides to challenging mountain ascents. These routes traverse diverse landscapes, including the Sperrin Mountains, Lough Neagh, and local woodlands.
Are there any easy touring cycling routes suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Magherascullion offers several easy touring cycling routes. A great option is the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, which follows flat county lanes around Lough Neagh. Another easy route that combines cycling with history is the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Magherascullion?
The terrain around Magherascullion is quite varied. You can find flat county lanes, especially around Lough Neagh, and riverside paths along the River Foyle. For a more challenging experience, the Sperrin Mountains offer significant climbs and descents with breathtaking panoramic views. Local woodlands also provide varied surfaces.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced riders?
Absolutely. For experienced touring cyclists seeking a challenge, the Sperrin Mountains provide demanding routes. The The Sperrins loop from Cookstown is a difficult route with substantial elevation gain, offering spectacular views across Ireland's largest mountain range. Another challenging option is the Maghery loop from Cookstown.
What notable landmarks or attractions can I see along the touring cycling routes?
Many routes pass by significant landmarks. You can cycle past historic sites like Derryloran Old Church Ruins and Cemetery, or enjoy views of natural features such as Lough Neagh and Lough Fea. The region also offers stunning viewpoints like View of the Gallion Mountains and County Londonderry, and the impressive Slieve Gallion NE Top Summit.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Magherascullion area?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the Loughshore Trail: Ardboe Loop, the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, and the Bike loop from Cookstown.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling around Magherascullion?
The best time for touring cycling around Magherascullion is generally from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During these months, the weather is typically milder and drier, making for more pleasant riding conditions and better visibility for enjoying the scenic landscapes of the Sperrin Mountains and Lough Neagh.
Are there options for parking or public transport access to the cycling routes?
While specific parking details vary by route starting point, many routes originate from towns like Cookstown, which offer public parking facilities. For public transport, local bus services connect various towns in County Londonderry and Mid Ulster, though options for transporting bicycles may be limited. It's advisable to check with local transport providers for specific routes and bike policies.
Can I find cafes or pubs along the touring cycling routes in Magherascullion?
Many routes pass through or near towns and villages in the Mid Ulster region, such as Cookstown, where you can find cafes, pubs, and other amenities. While specific routes may not have facilities directly on the trail, planning your ride to include stops in these settlements will allow for refreshments and breaks.
What makes touring cycling in Magherascullion unique compared to other regions?
Touring cycling in Magherascullion offers a unique blend of natural beauty and historical depth. Riders can experience the vastness of Europe's largest freshwater lake, Lough Neagh, the dramatic landscapes of the Sperrin Mountains (an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty), and ancient woodlands. The region's rich history, with sites like Tullaghoge Fort and Killymoon Castle, adds a cultural dimension to the scenic rides.
Where can I find more information about outdoor activities and cycling in Mid Ulster?
For broader information on outdoor activities and cycling opportunities within the Mid Ulster region, you can visit the official tourism website. They provide details on various attractions and activities that complement the touring cycling experience. You can explore more at visitmidulster.com.
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