The best cycling routes around Knockadoo
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Touring cycling routes around Knockadoo traverse a landscape characterized by undulating terrain and lush green countryside. The region features rolling hills and quiet country roads, providing diverse routes for cyclists. This environment offers a serene backdrop for exploring the area.
Best touring cycling routes around Knockadoo
- The most popular touring cycling route is Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort, a 12.9 miles (20.8 km) trail that takes 1 hour 15 minutes to complete. This easy route passes…
Last updated: May 1, 2026
20.8km
01:15
140m
140m
Easy bike ride. Great for any fitness level. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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
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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
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riders
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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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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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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On this stretch of the Solar Walk in Davagh Forest near the OM Observatory a pretty stone bridge spans over the Davagh water creating a picturesque scene. It's also fascinating to note that this area is a Dark Sky Park, meaning it boasts exceptional dark night skies.
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It’s disappointing that the dirt trails through the forest are for mountain bikers only. As a walker, you have to stick to the tarmac roads - also used by the mountain bikes. It felt like there is an assumption that walking is more about an afternoon stroll with the kids and the dog. The forest is for the mountain bikers.
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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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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 Knockadoo?
There are 6 touring cycling routes documented on komoot for the Knockadoo area, offering a variety of experiences for cyclists.
What are the difficulty levels of touring cycling routes around Knockadoo?
The routes around Knockadoo cater to various skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route, 3 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes, ensuring options for both casual riders and experienced touring cyclists.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in Knockadoo?
Yes, for an easier, family-friendly option, consider the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort. This 12.9-mile (20.8 km) route is rated as easy and passes historical sites with gentle gradients, making it suitable for a leisurely family outing.
What kind of landscape can I expect while touring cycling in Knockadoo?
Knockadoo offers a picturesque landscape characterized by undulating terrain, lush green countryside, and quiet country roads. You'll experience rolling hills and verdant pastures, providing a serene backdrop for your rides. The region's natural beauty, typical of rural Ireland, makes for a very scenic cycling experience.
What are some challenging routes for experienced touring cyclists near Knockadoo?
Experienced touring cyclists looking for a challenge can tackle routes like The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, a difficult 33.5-mile (53.9 km) path with challenging ascents through the Sperrin Mountains. Another demanding option is the Maghery loop from Cookstown, a 44.7-mile (72.0 km) trail leading through varied landscapes including Lough Neagh's shores.
Are there circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Knockadoo are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort and The Sperrins loop from Cookstown, providing convenient options for your tour.
What can I see along the touring cycling routes in Knockadoo?
While cycling around Knockadoo, you can discover various points of interest. Highlights include the historical Drum Manor House Ruins and the serene Lough Fea. You might also encounter the Slieve Gallion NE Top Summit offering expansive views, and various trails like the Drum Manor Forest Park Woodland Trail and Davagh Forest Trail.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Knockadoo?
The best time for touring cycling in Knockadoo is generally during the milder months, from late spring to early autumn (May to September). During this period, the weather is typically more favorable with less rain and comfortable temperatures, allowing you to fully enjoy the green landscapes and quiet roads.
Are there cafes or places to stop for refreshments along the routes?
While specific cafes are not listed for every route, the region's rural Irish setting means you'll often pass through charming small villages. These localities, such as those near the Knockadoo area, typically offer opportunities to find refreshments, experience local culture, and take a break during your ride.
How long do the touring cycling routes typically take to complete?
The duration of routes varies significantly based on their length and difficulty. For example, the easy Cookstown loop to Killymoon Castle & Tullyhogue Fort takes about 1 hour 15 minutes, while the more challenging Maghery loop from Cookstown can take around 4 hours 22 minutes.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Knockadoo?
Parking is generally available in or near the starting points of the routes, particularly in towns like Cookstown, which serves as a common starting point for several tours. Look for public parking areas within these villages or designated car parks near trailheads.
What makes Knockadoo a good destination for touring cyclists?
Knockadoo is an excellent destination for touring cyclists due to its combination of varied, undulating terrain, lush green countryside, and quiet country roads. It offers a range of routes from easy to difficult, allowing cyclists to explore picturesque landscapes, charming villages, and historical sites at their own pace, away from heavy traffic.
Most popular routes around Knockadoo
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