The best cycling routes around Small Park
4.5
(30)
348
riders
56
rides
Touring cycling routes around Small Park traverse a landscape characterized by well-maintained multi-use trails and green spaces. The area features a mix of gentle slopes and flat stretches, often winding alongside natural waterways. Cyclists can expect scenic views through tree-lined avenues and open fields, with some routes offering more challenging inclines.
Best touring cycling routes around Small Park
- The most popular touring cycling route is Loughshore Trail: Moira Loop, a 38.4 miles (61.8 km) trail that takes 3 hours…
Last updated: October 29, 2026
2
riders
61.8km
03:50
320m
320m
27.4km
01:49
390m
390m
51.7km
03:12
440m
450m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.8
(4)
72
riders
44.1km
02:38
250m
240m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
4.7
(9)
50
riders
20.6km
01:13
90m
90m
Easy bike ride. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
Royal residence in Northern Ireland. Visit with royal insights into the history of this castle! „Hillsborough Castle and Gardens” with adjacent gardens. Beautiful perennial beds, rose garden and old trees!
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Cycle and pedestrian bridge over the Lagan
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The bridge is named after Captain John Shaw of Oliver Cromwell's army, who built an oak bridge here in 1655. A stone bridge was built by Thomas Burgh in 1691, although this was destroyed by flooding, which led to it being replaced by the present bridge in 1709.
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If you want to get to Belfast city center without a car and stress, this is the right place.
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The path, which is part of National Cycle Route 9, offers a peaceful atmosphere that is ideal for relaxed bike rides - but walkers, joggers and dog owners also appreciate the route. The contrast between the quiet river and the partially flooded sections that can appear after heavy rain is particularly exciting. Sometimes the path leads directly to the water, and it almost seems as if the Lagan wants to reclaim a bit more space. The trees are reflected in the calm waters, which creates an almost mystical atmosphere in cloudy weather. Another highlight are the small, branching mountain bike trails that bring a bit of adventure to the tour. If you want a change and don't just want to follow the river, these trails offer a welcome change.
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The path, which is part of National Cycle Route 9, offers a peaceful atmosphere that is ideal for relaxed bike rides - but walkers, joggers and dog owners also appreciate the route. The contrast between the quiet river and the partially flooded sections that can appear after heavy rain is particularly exciting. Sometimes the path leads directly to the water and it almost seems as if the Lagan wants to reclaim a bit more space. The trees are reflected in the calm waters, which creates an almost mystical atmosphere in cloudy weather. Another highlight are the small, branching mountain bike trails that bring a bit of adventure to the tour. If you want a change and don't just want to follow the river, these trails offer a welcome change.
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The park covers almost 130 hectares and offers a variety of landscapes - from wide meadows and shady woodlands to manicured rose and Japanese gardens. The International Rose Trials, which take place here every year, are particularly exciting. If you come at the right time, you can admire an impressive variety of roses, which are judged by international experts. But the park has a lot to offer away from the roses in bloom: whether you just want to take a quiet walk in the Walled Garden, explore the Japanese Garden or challenge yourself on the orienteering course - everyone will find a favorite spot here. A small café provides refreshments and the playground also has something for younger visitors. The park has many hidden corners that make it an ideal stop to recharge.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available in Small Park?
Small Park offers a diverse network of over 60 touring cycling routes. These include 16 easy routes perfect for a relaxed ride, 37 moderate routes for those seeking a bit more challenge, and 13 difficult routes for experienced cyclists looking for significant elevation gain.
What makes touring cycling in Small Park a good experience?
Touring cycling in Small Park is characterized by well-maintained multi-use trails and abundant green spaces. You'll find a mix of gentle slopes and flat stretches, often winding alongside natural waterways. The routes offer scenic views through tree-lined avenues and open fields, providing a refreshing connection with nature. Some paths even incorporate old railroad beds, offering car-free and gently graded routes.
Are there family-friendly touring cycling routes in Small Park?
Yes, Small Park has several family-friendly options, particularly those on paved or well-maintained multi-use trails. These paths are often away from vehicular traffic and feature gentle grades, making them ideal for families. For an easy ride, consider the Lagan Towpath – Lagan Towpath loop from Lisburn, which is 12.8 miles (20.6 km) long and has minimal elevation change.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes in Small Park?
The terrain in Small Park is varied. You'll encounter flat stretches and gentle slopes, particularly along multi-use trails and waterways. However, some routes, like the Lagan Towpath and Divis Mountain Loop, combine riverside paths with more challenging ascents into higher terrain, offering a diverse experience for cyclists.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in Small Park?
Yes, many touring cycling routes in Small Park are designed as loops, allowing you to start and end at the same point. A popular moderate option is the Loughshore Trail: Moira Loop, which covers 38.4 miles (61.8 km) and offers a substantial distance for an extended ride.
What are some interesting places to see along the touring cycling routes?
While cycling, you can explore several interesting highlights. The Lagan Towpath itself is a prominent feature, offering scenic riverside views. You might also pass by the Harry Ferguson Memorial Garden, a notable man-made monument. Other trails like the Lisburn to Belfast Pathway and Broad Water Cycle Path offer pleasant cycling environments.
What do other touring cyclists say about the routes in Small Park?
The touring cycling routes in Small Park are highly regarded by the komoot community, holding an average rating of 4.5 stars from nearly 40 reviews. Over 500 touring cyclists have used komoot to explore the area, often praising the well-maintained paths and the scenic beauty of the green spaces and natural waterways.
Can I bring my dog on the touring cycling trails?
Many multi-use trails in parks are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash and owners clean up after them. While specific regulations vary, the general nature of Small Park's green spaces and multi-use paths suggests it's often suitable for cycling with a leashed dog. Always check local signage for specific rules on individual trails.
Are there any routes that offer significant elevation gain for a challenge?
Yes, for cyclists seeking more challenging inclines, routes like the Lagan Towpath and Divis Mountain Loop provide a good workout. This 17.0 miles (27.4 km) route combines riverside paths with ascents into higher terrain, featuring over 390 meters of elevation gain.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Small Park?
Small Park's multi-use trails and green spaces are generally enjoyable throughout the warmer months, from spring through autumn, when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its best. While winter cycling is possible, conditions may vary, and some paths might be less maintained or more challenging due to weather.
Are there options for longer touring cycling adventures?
Absolutely. Small Park offers routes that can be combined or are substantial on their own. For example, the Loughshore Trail: Moira Loop is a 38.4 miles (61.8 km) route, providing a significant distance for an extended ride. Many parks also connect to larger trail networks, making them excellent starting points for longer bikepacking or bike camping trips.
Are there any routes that connect to other towns or areas?
Yes, some routes in Small Park serve as gateways or connections to surrounding areas. For instance, the Lisburn to Rowallane Gardens loop is a 32.1 miles (51.7 km) trail that leads through varied landscapes, connecting different points of interest outside the immediate park area.
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