The best cycling routes around Ballylone Big
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Touring cycling routes around Ballylone Big traverse the rural landscape of County Down, Northern Ireland. The area features undulating terrain with rolling hills and quiet country roads, offering a mix of gradients suitable for touring cyclists. Routes often provide views of local loughs and pass through agricultural land. The region's elevation changes are generally moderate, with some routes including more significant climbs.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballylone Big
- The most popular touring cycling route is Strangford Lough Cycle Trail…
Last updated: June 28, 2026
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riders
56.7km
03:26
440m
440m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
1
riders
34.6km
02:03
220m
220m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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1
riders
26.9km
01:39
230m
230m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
33.5km
02:02
290m
290m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
50.8km
03:21
720m
720m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces. Suitable for all skill levels.
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Popular around Ballylone Big
Tips from the Community
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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The facility is of impressive size.
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The structure consists of a circular earthen ring with a diameter of 180 m and an area of 28,000 square meters, surrounded by an earthen rampart 3.5 m high. At least three of the five irregularly distributed gaps in the ring are intentional and possibly original. East of the center of the ring is a small passage grave with a westward-facing entrance.
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The truncated round tower rises from afar, its massive structure still preserved up to 10.7 metres. Originally, the tower served not only as a spiritual place, but also offered a strategic view over the valley - a real advantage for spotting any Viking raids early on. The history of the nearby monastery, which is associated with St. Mochumma, is also interesting. It is said that the site was looted in 1130 and that the remains of a church were discovered near the tower as late as the 18th century. The beam holes inside suggest that the six floors were made of wood and offered a certain level of comfort.
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As you get closer, the mystical aura of the place unfolds, with its mighty, almost circular earthen wall, which measures over 180 meters in diameter and dominates the view over the surrounding plateau. This ancient henge complex is one of the largest and best-preserved monuments of its kind in Ireland - hard to miss when you get close to Shaw's Bridge. In the center of the ring, a megalithic tomb awaits you, which tells its own story with its five supporting stones and a mighty capstone. You can literally feel the thousands of years that have passed here since ceremonies and gatherings probably took place at this place. It is impressive how the Giant's Ring has survived over time, while the wooden structures of the Ballynahatty settlements are long gone.
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The old stone bridge stretches majestically over the still water, which is perfectly reflected and creates a calm, almost magical atmosphere. The surrounding nature is inviting and offers a wonderful backdrop with green meadows and shady paths. A light wind blows through the trees and the sounds of nature accompany you with every pedal stroke.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballylone Big?
There are over 20 touring cycling routes around Ballylone Big, offering a variety of options for exploring the County Down countryside.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes around Ballylone Big?
The routes primarily traverse a rural landscape with undulating terrain, rolling hills, and quiet country roads. You'll encounter a mix of gradients, from moderate climbs to more significant ascents, often with views of local loughs and agricultural land.
Are there routes suitable for beginners or less experienced touring cyclists?
Yes, there are a few easier routes available. Out of the 20 touring cycling routes, 2 are classified as easy, providing a gentler introduction to cycling in the area.
What are some notable landmarks or attractions I can see along the touring cycling routes?
While cycling, you can explore several interesting points. Highlights include the historic Annadorn Dolmen, the serene Drumkeeragh Forest, and the unique Harry Ferguson Memorial Garden. For panoramic views, consider routes that pass near Slieve Croob Summit or offer a View of the Mourne Mountains and Newcastle.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes in the Ballylone Big area?
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Saintfield to Giant's Ring loop and the Ballynahinch to Windy Gap loop offer circular journeys, allowing you to start and finish in the same location.
Do the touring cycling routes around Ballylone Big involve significant elevation changes?
The region features undulating terrain with rolling hills, so most routes include moderate elevation changes. Some routes, like the Ballynahinch to Windy Gap loop, involve more significant climbs, reaching over 700 meters of ascent, offering a challenge for experienced cyclists.
What is a popular touring cycling route that offers scenic views?
The Strangford Lough Cycle Trail is a popular choice, offering picturesque views of Strangford Lough as it follows rural roads. It's a moderate route that showcases the natural beauty of the area.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes around Ballylone Big?
While specific 'family-friendly' designations are not provided, routes with an 'easy' difficulty grade and lower elevation gain would be most suitable. These routes typically follow quieter country roads, making them more comfortable for families. We recommend checking the route details for distance and elevation to ensure it matches your family's ability.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ballylone Big?
Generally, the spring and summer months (April to September) offer the most favorable conditions for touring cycling in Northern Ireland, with milder weather and longer daylight hours. However, the rural roads can be enjoyed in autumn for their changing colors, and even in winter if you are prepared for colder, potentially wetter conditions.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes in Ballylone Big?
Specific parking information for each route is not detailed here. However, as Ballylone Big is a rural area, parking is often available in nearby villages or at designated trailheads. We recommend checking the starting points of individual routes on komoot for more precise parking suggestions.
What are the typical distances and durations for touring cycling routes in the area?
Routes vary in length and time. For instance, the The Spa to Annadorn Dolmen loop is about 26.9 km (16.7 miles) and takes around 1 hour 40 minutes, while the Ballynahinch to Windy Gap loop is longer at 50.8 km (31.6 miles) and can take over 3 hours.
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