4.8
(12)
229
riders
4
rides
Mountain biking around Ballyroney offers access to a region characterized by rolling green hills and open spaces, with the majestic Mourne Mountains influencing the diverse terrain. The area provides a scenic backdrop for outdoor pursuits, featuring forests and varied landscapes suitable for cycling. While Ballyroney itself is a gateway, the surrounding County Down is known for its extensive trail networks. This includes areas with challenging climbs and rewarding views, making it a suitable base for exploring Northern Ireland's premier mountain…
Last updated: October 29, 2026
48.5km
03:46
960m
960m
Hard mountain bike ride. Very good fitness required.
4.6
(14)
201
riders
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required.

12
riders
Easy mountain bike ride.
2
riders
57.8km
03:32
730m
730m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required.
2
riders
52.6km
03:50
840m
840m
Moderate mountain bike ride. Good fitness required.
Our route recommendations are based on thousands of hikes, rides, and runs completed by other people on komoot.
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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. …”
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In mid-April, you are greeted by a wonderful scent that comes from the flowering bushes beside the path - perhaps laurel? The fresh breeze mixes with the intense aroma that gives nature something very special. The bridge itself is surrounded by a quiet forest, which makes the crossing seem like a small oasis of relaxation. A brief moment that invites you to take a deep breath before heading back out onto the road.
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Super nice break spot
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A beautiful reservoir surrounded by forest including a beautiful castle
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A different way of crossing the river, simply from stone to stone
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In this enchantingly beautiful forest with bridges and remains of walls, scenes for Game of Thrones were filmed and we also find light trees, forklifts and signposts to Scene 1 to 3 in the middle of the forest for various shots. We even meet Game of Thrones fans in costumes on a bridge - or were we unnoticed extras in a film?
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Here it is a joy to cross the Schimna River, a wonderful change.
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The Perfectly kept motte and bailie is placed in a bend of the Lagan River with extensive views along the valley. It is the best preserved and most impressive example in Ulster of an Anglo-Norman motte and bailey castle.
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There are 4 mountain bike trails listed on komoot around Ballyroney. These routes offer a variety of experiences, from easy loops to more challenging rides through the region's diverse terrain.
The mountain bike trails around Ballyroney cater to various skill levels. You'll find 1 easy route and 3 moderate routes. While there are no difficult routes directly listed, the region's proximity to major mountain biking centers like Rostrevor offers more advanced options.
Yes, for an easier ride, consider the View of Mourne AONB – Castlewellan Lake loop from Dollys Brae Car Park. This 3.7-mile trail is rated easy and takes about 33 minutes to complete, offering a pleasant experience through the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Mountain biking around Ballyroney offers picturesque scenery characterized by rolling green hills and open spaces. The routes are influenced by the majestic Mourne Mountains, providing diverse terrain, forests, and rewarding views of the surrounding countryside. You can expect a sense of freedom and tranquility amidst the natural beauty.
Yes, several routes are designed as loops. For example, the Dromore Motte and Bailey – Drumkeeragh Forest loop from Ballyroney Road is a popular moderate circular trail winding through forests. Another option is the Trassey Road loop from Ballyroney Road, which features gently ascending roads through open landscapes.
The area is highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.9 stars from over 10 reviews. Mountain bikers often praise the varied terrain, the scenic backdrop of rolling hills and forests, and the rewarding views, especially those influenced by the Mourne Mountains.
While riding, you might encounter various scenic spots. Notable viewpoints in the wider area include Slievenaman Climb and Spaltha, which offer expansive views of the landscape. The trails themselves often provide glimpses of the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Yes, Ballyroney serves as an excellent gateway to some of Northern Ireland's premier mountain biking destinations. It's conveniently located for accessing the acclaimed Rostrevor Mountain Bike Trails and Castlewellan Mountain Bike Trails, both known for their extensive and diverse trail networks.
Absolutely. Most of the trails around Ballyroney are rated moderate. The Dromore Motte and Bailey – Drumkeeragh Forest loop from Ballyroney Road and the Trassey Road loop from Ballyroney Road are both moderate routes, offering a good balance of challenge and scenic riding through forests and open landscapes.
The region's rolling green hills and open spaces are enjoyable throughout much of the year. Spring and autumn often provide pleasant temperatures and vibrant scenery. While winter conditions can be challenging, the trails remain accessible. Always check local weather forecasts before heading out.
Yes, the Dromore Motte and Bailey – Drumkeeragh Forest loop from Ballyroney Road specifically winds through Drumkeeragh Forest, offering a shaded and immersive forest riding experience. The broader region also features numerous forested areas that contribute to the diverse terrain.


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