Cookstown District Council
What to do
Cycling in the Cookstown District
Lough Fea, The Sperrins Region
Lough Fea Cycle Route
Distance: 66km / 41 miles Route Signing: 5
A delightful route taking in the archaeology of Beaghmore Stone Circles and the Broughderg area, the remote Glenelly Valley, the charm of Lough Fea and the hustle and bustle of Cookstown.
Advice and recommendations: This route has some steep climbs. The route can be shortened by use of the road pastDavagh Forest. A short detour to the Sperrin Heritage Centre is highly recommended.
Website: www.sperrinstourism.com
Loughshore Trail Cycle Route
Route Signing: 94 Distance: 128kms / 80 miles Route Map: Loughshore Trail NN94
Cookstown is an integral part of the Loughshore Trail cycle route which provides visitors and locals with the unique opportunity to cycle a continuous route around the shores of Lough Neagh, the largest freshwater lake in the UK and Ireland. It has been designed to suit both experienced cycling enthusiasts and family groups of all ages and abilities.
Advice and recommendations: Quiet country lanes and mainly flat terrain with breathtaking views. Over 25 major sites of interest including marinas, nature reserves, parks and sites of archaeological interest. Interpretation panels at many sites providing information about the Trail, local history and flora and fauna.
Website : www.loughshoretrail.com
Slieve Gallion Cycle Route
Distance: 40km / 25 miles Route Signing: 8
A challenging and very scenic cycle route circumnavigating Slieve Gallion with spectacular views, taking in Springhill House and the plantation towns of Moneymore and Draperstown.
Advice and recommendations: Springhill House is an ideal start point. This route has some steep climbs.
National Cycle Route 95
Route Signing: 95 Distance: 137kms / 85 miles Route Map: Belfast to Ballyshannon NN9B
As the route passes Cookstown the remoteness and beauty of the Sperrin’s Region becomes evident; this magnificent landscape has changed little since Stone Age people built their circle and alignments, like those at Beaghmore. Sights on route include; Wellbrook Beetling Mill, Beaghmore Stone Circles, views of the Sperrin Mountains and Barnes Gap.
Advice and recommendations: Route crosses the heart of the Sperrins on quiet country roads between Cookstown, Gortin and Newtownstewart. Route also takes in the tranquil Derg Valley between Castlederg and Pettigo.
For more information on Cycling in the Cookstown District contact Cookstown Tourist Information Centre on Tel: 028 867 69949 (option 2) or email: tic@cookstown.gov.uk