A 37 mile circular route through the Lecale district of Co Down, starting and ending in Downpatrick. The route can be reduced by taking one of many alternative routes. The route visits many pre-historic and more recent buildings and artefacts. There is also the posibility to visit the golden beach at Ballyhornan.
| County | Down |
| Nearest Town | Downpatrick |
| Distance | 37 miles miles |
| OS Map | Sheet 21 |
| Route Type | Coastal, Parkland and Grassland, Urban |
| Route Shape | Circular |
| Public Roads | On Public Road |
| AONB | Lecale Coast |
| Grid Ref (Start) | J484445 |
| Grid Ref (End) | J484445 |
Public roads.
Loughinisland historic churches
Ballynoe stone circle
Kilclief castle
The Lecale district of County Down, made famous in song by Van Morrison, is criss-crossed with a network of roads most of which are nearly traffic free. At 37 miles this route may appear long but it can easily be reduced by taking any one of the many alternative roads. The route meanders through an area abundant in pre-historic and more recent buildings and artefacts. Starting in Downpatrick close to Down Cathedral, you will pass close to the Racecourse and Ballydugan Lake before reaching Loughinisland and historic churches. Re-crossing the A25, you pass close to the mysterious Ballynoe Stone Circles before reaching the coast at Ballyhornan and its golden beach. Following the shoreline north to Kilclief Castle (open to the public) the route turns inland then southwards through the villages of Ballyculter and Ballycruttle before turning towards Downpatrick.
From Belfast take the A7 to Downpatrick and follow the signs for Down Cathedral.
From Newcastle take the A2 as far as Clough then take the A25 to Downpatrick and follow signs for Down Cathedral.
From Ballynahinch take the B2 to Downpatrick.
Limited traffic on mostly minor roads.
Ample carparking, toilets and refreshments available in Downpatrick. Public toilets available in Ballynornan but opening times vary.
This route has accessible toilet facilities.
Mostly minor public roads with some hilly sections.
Armagh & Down Cycling Guide
Tourist Information Offices in Newcastle and Downpatrick.
www.sustrans.org.uk
This information is provided by Countryside Access and Activities Network, The Stableyard, Barnett's Demesne, Malone Road, Belfast, BT9 5PB.
Tel: 028 9030 3930
Fax: 028 9062 6248
info@cycleni.com
www.countrysiderecreation.com
Every care has been taken to ensure accuracy of the information. We cannot accept responsibility for errors or omissions but where such are brought to our attention, the information will be amended accordingly.