Explore the best cycling and bike touring routes in Raleigh, from scenic greenways to wooded trails and smooth city rides—perfect for a vacation on two wheels.
BEST CYCLING AND BIKE TOURING ROUTES IN BELFAST (NORTHERN IRELAND)
Planning a cycling holiday in Belfast? Great shout! This historic, culture-rich capital of Northern Ireland is not just for Titanic buffs and pub crawlers—it’s a surprisingly bike-friendly destination with riverside trails, forest parks, greenways, and coastal escapes. Whether you’re up for a relaxed ride through the city or want to explore the wild hills just outside the urban limits, Belfast offers the perfect blend of adventure and charm. So grab your helmet, pack a rain jacket (just in case), and let’s explore the top cycling routes that’ll make your Belfast trip unforgettable.
Cruise through central Belfast with ease
The Lagan Towpath and Titanic Quarter
The Lagan Towpath is a dream route for city-based cycling. This scenic, mostly flat trail stretches about 17 kilometres from Belfast city centre to Lisburn, following the River Lagan and winding through woodlands, canal locks, and peaceful nature reserves. It’s traffic-free, family-friendly, and ideal if you’re after a chilled-out ride with plenty of photo ops.
You can easily start near the Botanic Gardens or Ormeau Park and head south along the river. The surface is a mix of gravel and paved paths, so hybrid or touring bikes are ideal. Expect to see joggers, dog walkers, and maybe even a few curious swans along the way. Feeling ambitious? Connect this with the NCN Route 9 for an even longer spin.
Top urban sights on your ride
Titanic Quarter with its world-famous museum
Big Fish and Lagan Weir footbridge
Botanic Gardens and Queen’s University
Ormeau Park for a shady break
Lyric Theatre café for coffee and views
This route is perfect for a morning or afternoon spin. Keep your camera handy—between the old bridges and riverfront charm, there’s no shortage of Instagram-worthy stops. And if you’re into local history, take a quick detour into the Gasworks district or hop off at the Titanic Belfast visitor centre.
Relaxing trails through leafy spaces
Comber Greenway and Victoria Park
Looking for a peaceful escape without leaving town? The Comber Greenway is a 11-kilometre traffic-free route built along a former railway line, stretching from east Belfast all the way to Comber. It’s a local favourite for both commuters and leisure riders, offering tree-lined paths, farmland views, and a gentle gradient perfect for any fitness level.
Start your ride near CS Lewis Square (yes, the Narnia guy was from Belfast!) and cruise past old rail bridges and wildflower meadows. At the Comber end, grab a coffee and a scone before looping back. Fancy more? Victoria Park is nearby and offers a short but scenic loop perfect for families or easy cooldown laps.
Peaceful park and greenway stops
CS Lewis Square and Narnia-inspired statues
Victoria Park’s lakeside loop (2 km)
Billy Neill Country Park detour
Comber cafés and picnic spots
Wildflower meadows in summer
These routes offer a slice of countryside right in the city. They’re also well-signed, safe, and mostly flat—perfect for relaxed touring or if you're riding with kids. Bring a small backpack with snacks, or stop at local cafés along the way for a real Belfast treat (hint: try a traybake or sausage bap).
Explore beyond Belfast by bike
Cave Hill, Belfast Hills, and North Down Coast
For those ready to stretch their legs and take in more dramatic views, Belfast’s hills and nearby coastal routes offer plenty of challenge and reward. Cave Hill Country Park is a short but steep climb with epic views over the city and Belfast Lough. You can reach it from the Antrim Road or Ballysillan, but expect to work those gears—some gradients are no joke.
If you prefer longer, scenic road tours, head east along the North Down Coastal Path. This mostly flat route hugs the shoreline from Belfast to Holywood, Bangor, and beyond. Expect harbours, lighthouses, and lots of salty sea breeze. It’s around 24 kilometres one way, making it a solid half-day ride with tons of coastal charm.
You can also combine the Comber Greenway with the North Down trail for a loop that blends countryside and seaside—basically the full Belfast experience in one ride.
Bigger rides and top views
Cave Hill summit climb and city views
North Down Coastal Path (24+ km one way)
Holywood Marina and Bangor Pier
Groomsport village for a lunch stop
Belfast Hills for MTB or gravel riding
Be sure to check the weather and dress in layers—Belfast is famously unpredictable. And always carry water and a patch kit, especially on hillier rides. Whether you’re after big views or coastal cafés, these routes show off Northern Ireland’s landscape in the best way possible: from your saddle.
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