The best MTB trails around Ballybannan
4.4
(13)
173
riders
10
rides
Mountain biking around Ballybannan provides access to diverse landscapes, featuring a mix of forest paths, lakeside trails, and routes with views of the surrounding hills. The area offers varied terrain, from established forest park trails to more open paths. These mountain bike trails often traverse through areas known for their natural beauty and offer different levels of challenge.
Best mountain bike trails around Ballybannan
- The most popular mountain bike trail is Castlewellan MTB Trails and Newcastle Way Loop, an…
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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Tips from the Community
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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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. …”
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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". …”
2
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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
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Easy route no special gear required. Very scenic
0
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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
Frequently Asked Questions
How many mountain bike trails are available around Ballybannan?
There are 10 mountain bike trails available around Ballybannan, offering a variety of experiences for different skill levels. These include 5 easy routes, 3 moderate routes, and 2 difficult routes.
What kind of terrain can I expect on mountain bike trails in Ballybannan?
Mountain biking around Ballybannan offers diverse landscapes, featuring a mix of forest paths, lakeside trails, and routes with views of the surrounding hills. You'll find varied terrain, from established forest park trails to more open paths, often traversing areas known for their natural beauty.
Are there any easy mountain bike trails suitable for beginners or families?
Yes, Ballybannan has 5 easy mountain bike trails. A great option for a pleasant ride is the Castlewellan Lake – Bunkers Hill loop from Castlewellan, which is 10.0 miles (16.1 km) long and offers scenic views around Castlewellan Lake.
What do other mountain bikers enjoy most about the trails in Ballybannan?
The mountain bike trails around Ballybannan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 4.4 stars from over 10 reviews. Riders often praise the varied terrain, the natural beauty of the forest and lakeside paths, and the options available for different ability levels.
Are there any mountain bike trails that feature waterfalls or interesting natural features?
Yes, you can find trails that include natural features. For example, the easy Thomas's Quarry and Waterfall – Newcastle Harbour loop from Newcastle, which is 7.9 miles (12.7 km) long, passes by a waterfall and offers views of Newcastle Harbour.
Can I find mountain bike routes that offer views or pass by viewpoints?
Many routes in the Ballybannan area offer scenic views. Some trails lead to or pass by notable viewpoints such as Slieve Bearnagh, Slieve Croob Summit, and the Summit of Slieve Donard. The Castlewellan MTB Trails and Newcastle Way Loop also features scenic paths.
Are there any mountain bike trails that go through forest parks?
Absolutely. Several trails traverse beautiful forest parks. A popular choice is the Bannanstown Road Climb – Tollymore Forest Park loop from Bryansford, a 19.9 miles (32.1 km) moderate trail that leads through the scenic Tollymore Forest Park.
Are there any circular mountain bike routes in the Ballybannan area?
Yes, many of the mountain bike routes around Ballybannan are circular, allowing you to start and finish at the same point. Examples include the Castlewellan Lake – Bunkers Hill loop from Castlewellan and the Bannanstown Road Climb – Tollymore Forest Park loop from Bryansford.
What are some notable landmarks or historical sites near the mountain bike trails?
While riding, you might encounter historical sites or views of castles. The area features landmarks such as View of Castlewellan Castle, Clough Castle Ruins, and Dundrum Castle. The Stepping Stones at Mourne AONB – Parnell's Bridge loop from Bryansford also offers a chance to explore the Mourne Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Are there any challenging mountain bike trails for experienced riders?
Yes, Ballybannan offers 2 difficult mountain bike routes for those seeking a greater challenge. These trails typically feature more significant elevation changes and technical sections.
What is the longest mountain bike trail available in Ballybannan?
The longest mountain bike trail in the area is the Bannanstown Road Climb – Tollymore Forest Park loop from Bryansford, which spans 19.9 miles (32.1 km) and typically takes around 2 hours 40 minutes to complete.
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