![Cover image](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/photos/united-kingdom/northern-ireland/8324904402/black-hill-1.webp)
The Castle Trail
A road cycling route starting from Ballynahinch
Discover the rich history of castles along this scenic route
Map
![Map miniature of "The Castle Trail" cycling inspiration in Northern Ireland, United Kingdom. Generated by Tarmacs.app cycling route planner](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/routemaps/600/united-kingdom/northern-ireland/ballynahinch/road/325613.webp)
Embark on a journey through time and explore the fascinating history of castles in the area surrounding Ballynahinch. This road cycling route takes you past several historic landmarks, including Hillsborough Castle and Balmoral Castle. With a higher difficulty level, it is suitable for experienced cyclists. The epicness of this route is rated at 3, as it provides a diverse mix of historical attractions and scenic landscapes.
road
68 km
736 m
Tough
Route profile
Highlights on the route
0 km
0 km
Start: Ballynahinch City centerBallynahinch: Scenic routes through rolling drumlins and home to the Tour of the Mournes cycling event.
Ballynahinch is a picturesque town located in Northern Ireland. While it may not have any famous cycling spots directly in the town, it is surrounded by beautiful landscapes and offers opportunities for road and gravel cycling. Cyclists can explore the rolling drumlins of County Down and enjoy scenic routes along the quiet country roads. Nearby destinations like the stunning Murlough Bay and Newcastle offer more challenging climbs for experienced cyclists. Ballynahinch also hosts the Tour of the Mournes cycling event, attracting both local and international cyclists to the area.0 km
0 km
BallynahinchTownBallynahinch: Start your adventure in the historic town of Ballynahinch and discover its rich past.
17 km
17 km
Royal HillsboroughVillageRoyal Hillsborough: Visit Hillsborough Castle, a stunning Georgian mansion and the official residence of the Secretary of State for Northern Ireland.
41 km
41 km
Black Hill360 mPeakBlack Hill: Take a detour to Black Hill and marvel at the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside.
45 km
45 km
BalmoralSub-urbBalmoral: Admire the grandeur of Balmoral Castle, the Queen's official residence in Northern Ireland.
51 km
51 km
BallylessonVillageBallylesson: Cycle through the beautiful countryside and enjoy the serene atmosphere of Ballylesson village.
59 km
59 km
The TempleVillageThe Temple: Pause at the historic Temple Watermill located on the banks of the River Lagan.
68 km
68 km
Finish: Ballynahinch City centerBallynahinch: Scenic routes through rolling drumlins and home to the Tour of the Mournes cycling event.
Cycling routes nearby:
![Image of Saintfield](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northern-ireland/saintfield-5.webp)
![Image of Crossgar](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northern-ireland/crossgar-5.webp)
![Image of Carryduff](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northern-ireland/carryduff-4.webp)
![Image of Ballygowan](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northern-ireland/ballygowan-5.webp)
![Image of Downpatrick](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northern-ireland/downpatrick-4.webp)
![Image of Lisburn](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northern-ireland/lisburn-4.webp)
![Image of Castlewellan](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northern-ireland/castlewellan-5.webp)
![Image of Comber](https://images.tarmacs.app/cycling-routes/covers/united-kingdom/northern-ireland/comber-5.webp)