The best cycling routes around Ballygowan
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164
riders
36
rides
Touring cycling around Ballygowan offers a blend of rural tranquility and access to diverse landscapes in County Down, Northern Ireland. The area features picturesque countryside with quiet roads, leading to scenic routes near Strangford Lough. Cyclists can experience moderate climbs that provide panoramic views of the Mournes and the Irish Sea, alongside green spaces and waterways.
Best touring cycling routes around Ballygowan
- The most popular touring cycling route is Scarva to Castlewellan Forest Park loop, a 47.7 miles (76.8…
Last updated: October 29, 2026
76.8km
04:55
790m
790m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
57.1km
03:36
620m
620m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
49.2km
03:08
610m
610m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
53.6km
03:16
450m
450m
Hard bike ride. Very good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
5.0
(2)
66
riders
43.1km
02:33
210m
210m
Moderate bike ride. Good fitness required. Mostly paved surfaces.
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Tips from the Community
The Crack Bridge, also known as Fearon’s Bridge, is one of the most characteristic stone arch bridges over the Newry Canal. This historic structure is located on a beautiful, secluded section of the towpath between Poyntzpass and Jerrettspass. This robust, semi-circular arch bridge from the 18th century is built from locally quarried stone and forms an iconic image along the Newry Canal Towpath. The bridge was originally built to give local farmers and their livestock access to the farmlands on both sides of the canal without hindering navigation.
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Between the rustling trees along the Newry Canal Towpath, you'll encounter the tranquil ruin of a lock keeper's cottage. Once, this was the proud and bustling heart of the waterway, where the lock keeper stood ready day and night to operate the heavy wooden canal gates for passing barges. Today, only the robust stone walls remain, slowly being reclaimed by nature.
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Along the route of the historic Newry Canal, you'll find the Acton Lake Visitor Centre, beautifully situated on the banks of the tranquil Lough Shark. This lake, a remnant from the ice age, provides an idyllic setting for a short stop during your bike tour. The visitor centre not only offers a glimpse into the local flora and fauna – with numerous waterfowl and rare dragonflies – but also tells the story of the region's inland navigation history.
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This largely flat and completely traffic-free path winds through the heart of counties Armagh and Down, along the tranquil waterway that once formed the lifeline for transporting coal to the Irish Sea. As you pedal over the well-maintained asphalt or fine gravel, you'll be surrounded by lush green embankments, historic stone bridges, and the monumental remains of eighteen locks that bridge the elevation difference in the landscape. A mix of smooth asphalt and easily rideable fine gravel, suitable for almost all types of bicycles.
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Quiet canal section south of Poyntzpass, where the towpath runs tightly along the narrow water. The bank is lightly overgrown with low trees and hedges, giving the stretch an intimate, green impression. The water is mostly still, forming a straight line through the open agricultural landscape. An even, traffic-free segment ideal for quiet miles on the towpath.
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The Newry Canal Towpath is a 32-kilometer-long, almost entirely traffic-free green corridor connecting the towns of Portadown and Newry. It follows the towpath of the oldest canal in the British Isles, opened in 1742 to transport coal from County Tyrone to the sea. The Newry Canal Towpath offers an unparalleled cycling experience through the tranquil heart of County Armagh and County Down. This historic route, part of the National Cycle Network Route 9, takes you along a flat and largely asphalted path past fourteen monumental locks and characteristic lock-keeper's cottages. As you follow the waterway, you'll traverse a varied landscape of dense forests and open meadows, passing through welcoming villages like Scarva and Poyntzpass along the way. The path is a haven for wildlife; keep an eye out for kingfishers, swans, and otters that inhabit the reed beds. Whether you cycle the full 32 kilometers or explore just a section, the combination of industrial history and natural beauty makes this one of the absolute gems of Irish cycling routes.
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The entrance to Lisnamintry Rath (located on Ballygargan Road, near Portadown) is the gateway to one of the few officially protected archaeological monuments in this part of County Armagh. A rath is an early medieval fortified farmstead (c. 500–1000 AD) that formerly offered protection to families and their livestock against raiders. Not visible from the road.
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many touring cycling routes are available around Ballygowan?
There are nearly 40 touring cycling routes around Ballygowan, offering a diverse range of experiences. You'll find options from easy, leisurely rides to more challenging routes with significant climbs.
What kind of terrain can I expect on touring cycling routes near Ballygowan?
The terrain around Ballygowan is varied. You can expect quiet rural roads, picturesque countryside, and waterside paths, particularly near Strangford Lough. Some routes, like the Scarva to Castlewellan Forest Park loop, feature varied terrain, while others, such as the Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Loughbrickland, offer a tranquil canal setting.
Are there any family-friendly touring cycling routes in the Ballygowan area?
Yes, while many routes offer moderate challenges, there are easier options suitable for families. The Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Loughbrickland is a moderate route that follows a tranquil canal, which can be a good choice for a more relaxed family outing. The Comber Greenway, a traffic-free section of the National Cycle Network, is also a popular choice for families, though it's a bit further afield.
What are some scenic viewpoints or landmarks I can see while cycling near Ballygowan?
Many routes offer rewarding views. You can find panoramic views of the Mournes and the Irish Sea on routes with moderate climbs. Historical sites like the Nendrum Monastic Site and Mahee Castle are accessible from routes around Strangford Lough. Along the Newry Canal Towpath, you can observe old canal lock gates and gatekeepers' cottages. Other points of interest include Scarva Village and the Clare Glen Stone Bridges.
Are there any long-distance touring cycling options starting from or near Ballygowan?
Yes, several routes offer significant distances for long-distance touring. For example, the Scarva to Castlewellan Forest Park loop is nearly 77 km (47.7 miles) long, and the Scarva to Newry loop covers over 57 km (35.5 miles). These routes provide extensive exploration of the County Down countryside.
What is the best time of year to go touring cycling in Ballygowan?
The best time to cycle in Northern Ireland, including Ballygowan, is generally during the spring, summer, and early autumn months (April to October). The weather is typically milder and drier, making for more pleasant riding conditions. However, the region's natural beauty can be enjoyed year-round, with appropriate gear for cooler or wetter weather.
What do other touring cyclists enjoy most about cycling in Ballygowan?
The touring cycling routes around Ballygowan are highly rated by the komoot community, with an average score of 5.0 stars from 5 reviews. Cyclists often praise the blend of rural tranquility, quiet roads, and the diverse landscapes, including waterside paths and routes with panoramic views of the Mournes.
Are there any circular touring cycling routes available?
Yes, many of the touring cycling routes around Ballygowan are designed as loops, allowing you to start and finish in the same location. Examples include the challenging Banbridge to Windy Gap loop — Mourne and the moderate Newry Canal Path – Newry Canal Towpath loop from Loughbrickland.
Where can I find parking for touring cycling routes near Ballygowan?
While specific parking details for every route aren't listed, many routes start from towns or villages like Scarva, Banbridge, or Loughbrickland, where public parking facilities are typically available. For routes along the Newry Canal Towpath, parking can often be found at access points along the canal.
Are there any challenging touring cycling routes for experienced cyclists?
Absolutely. The Ballygowan area offers several difficult routes with significant elevation gain. The Scarva to Newry loop, for instance, features substantial climbs and expansive views. Another demanding option is the Banbridge to Craigavon Lakes loop, which also presents a good challenge for experienced touring cyclists.
Can I access touring cycling routes near Ballygowan using public transport?
Ballygowan is a commuter village, and while direct access to specific trailheads via public transport might vary, major towns like Newry, Banbridge, and Comber, which serve as starting points for some routes, are generally well-connected by bus services. Planning your journey in advance with local transport providers is recommended.
Are there cafes or pubs along the touring cycling routes for refreshment stops?
Many routes pass through or near villages and towns where you can find cafes, pubs, and other refreshment stops. For example, the Newry Canal Towpath offers refreshment stops in places like Poyntzpass. It's always a good idea to check the specific route details or local information for amenities along your chosen path.
Most popular routes around Ballygowan
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