4.4
(13)
173
riders
10
rides
Mountain biking around Moneycarragh offers access to diverse landscapes, from coastal paths to the dramatic backdrop of the Mourne Mountains. The region is characterized by its proximity to renowned mountain biking centers like Castlewellan and Rostrevor, providing a variety of trails. Riders can explore forest parks, scenic coastal routes, and areas with varied terrain suitable for different skill levels. This makes Moneycarragh a strategic base for exploring Northern Ireland's mountain biking opportunities.
Last updated: October 28, 2026
3.0
(1)
8
riders
28.8km
02:08
360m
360m
5.0
(3)
35
riders
16.0km
01:19
190m
190m
Easy mountain bike ride.

5.0
(1)
28
riders
31.9km
02:40
490m
490m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required.
34
riders
12.0km
01:18
380m
380m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required.
15
riders
12.7km
01:09
300m
300m
Easy mountain bike ride.
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FACEBOOK (History of Newcastle, Co. Down, Hore's Bridge, 2026-08-15): https://www.facebook.com/HistoryofNewcastleCo.Down/photos/hores-bridge-over-the-spinkwee-river-sw-tollymore-was-built-in-1824-the-date-is-/754755631362196/ “… Hore's Bridge over the Spinkwee River, SW Tollymore, was built in 1824. …”
1
0
The stepping stones are currently fenced off. Please use the nearby bridges to cross the Shimna River.
2
0
Wikipedia (Tollymore Forest Park, 2026-08-14): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tollymore_Forest_Park “... Parnell Bridge, named in recognition of Sir John Parnell who visited Tollymore in the late 18th century, was constructed in 1842. It was the last stone bridge to be built in Tollymore. …”
2
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Wikipedia (Tollymore Forest Park, 2026-08-14): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tollymore_Forest_Park “... The Hermitage is a small stone shelter designed by James Hamilton (2nd Earl of Clanbrassil) in the 1770s in memory to his friend the John Montagu, Marquess of Monthermer. It is built into the side of the gorge above the river and was used as a place for ladies to shelter while the men fished. There is an inscription in Greek within the Hermitage which translates as "Clanbrassil, to his very dear friend Monthermer 1770". …”
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Wikipedia (Tollymore Forest Park, 2026-08-14): https://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tollymore_Forest_Park “... Horn Bridge crosses a small culverted burn (stream) and is crossed by a gravel road. The burn below the bridge is covered with a board walk connected to a path. It was built c.1770 by either the 1st or 2nd Earl. ...”
1
0
The park has no entry fee, you only have to pay 5 £ for parking.
1
0
Easy route no special gear required. Very scenic
0
0
The small, historic port provides a charming setting with views of the Mourne Mountains and the sea. The promenade is well maintained and is great for a relaxing cruise along the coast. However, it can get quite busy in good weather and at weekends, which can slow down the journey. A highlight is the proximity to Murlough National Nature Reserve, which is just a few kilometers away and is ideal for further exploration. Note, however, that some sections of the promenade can be slippery when wet, so care must be taken.
1
0
There are 10 mountain bike trails around Moneycarragh listed on komoot, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These routes provide access to the diverse landscapes of the Mourne Mountains region.
Yes, Moneycarragh offers several easy mountain bike trails perfect for beginners and families. For instance, the Castlewellan Lake – Bunkers Hill loop from Castlewellan is an easy 16.1 km path with gentle gradients and scenic views of Castlewellan Lake. Another accessible option is the Thomas's Quarry and Waterfall – Newcastle Harbour loop from Newcastle, which is 12.7 km long.
While Moneycarragh itself serves as a gateway, the wider Mourne Mountains region, particularly locations like Rostrevor and Castlewellan, offers challenging trails. Within the komoot selection, there are 2 difficult routes available, providing more technical terrain and climbs for experienced riders.
Yes, many of the mountain bike trails around Moneycarragh are designed as circular routes, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the popular Castlewellan MTB Trails and Newcastle Way Loop and the Bannanstown Road Climb – Tollymore Forest Park loop from Bryansford.
Mountain bike trails near Moneycarragh offer diverse landscapes, from coastal paths with views of Dundrum Inner Bay to the dramatic backdrop of the Mourne Mountains. You can find viewpoints such as Slieve Croob Summit and the Murlough Nature Reserve Boardwalk. The region also features forest parks like Tollymore, offering scenic rides through woodlands.
Yes, some routes incorporate natural features like waterfalls. The Thomas's Quarry and Waterfall – Newcastle Harbour loop from Newcastle specifically mentions a waterfall. Additionally, the Shimna River Waterfall is a notable natural monument in the area that can be explored.
The area around Moneycarragh is rich in attractions. You can explore historical sites like Dundrum Castle, a medieval ruin overlooking Dundrum village. Forest parks such as Tollymore, known for its scenic beauty and architectural follies like the Tollymore Forest Park Stone Arch Bridge, also offer great exploration opportunities. Castlewellan Forest Park, with its lake and scenic views, is another highlight.
The mountain bike trails around Moneycarragh are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the diverse terrain, from coastal paths to forest trails, and the accessibility to renowned mountain biking centers like Castlewellan.
While Moneycarragh itself is a smaller locality, the broader Mourne Mountains region, which hosts many of the mountain biking opportunities, has public transport links to its main towns. For specific trailheads, it's advisable to check local bus routes or consider driving, as direct public transport to every starting point might be limited.
Yes, Moneycarragh is conveniently located near several excellent mountain biking facilities. Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails and Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails are renowned centers offering a wide range of graded trails, from beginner-friendly to challenging downhill options, along with amenities like bike hire and uplift services.
The duration of mountain bike trails around Moneycarragh varies depending on the route's length and difficulty. For example, the Castlewellan MTB Trails and Newcastle Way Loop typically takes around 2 hours 8 minutes to complete, while the Bannanstown Road Climb – Tollymore Forest Park loop from Bryansford is often completed in about 2 hours 40 minutes. Shorter, easier routes can be completed in less time.


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