Derry City Cycling Sportive

The Derry City Cycling Sportive gives road cyclists of every ability the chance to take on a route - or three - through the countryside west and south of the city, starting and finishing at one of Derry’s most striking public spaces. Organised by Derry Cycling Club under the Cycling Ulster umbrella, this is a non-competitive community event: there are no placings, no race numbers, just a morning on the bike with marshals, mechanical support, and company. It suits first-time sportive riders looking for an achievable distance as much as seasoned club cyclists who want a longer challenge with a social finish.

What to expect

Three distances go out from Ebrington Square: a 30 km family-friendly loop, a 60 km intermediate route, and a 100 km challenge for stronger riders. Cyclists depart in waves from 9:00 am, keeping numbers manageable on the roads. The countryside around Derry rolls through farmland and river valleys, and each route loops back to the square. Rest stops with mechanical support are stationed along the way - useful if you pick up a puncture or need a wheel checked. Every finisher receives a souvenir medal, and a post-ride meal or refreshments await at the end. The entry fee of £22 covers the medal, food, and support on the day; pre-entry is required through the Cycling Ulster website. Road bikes are the recommended choice, though the 30 km route accepts mountain bikes.

Getting there

Ebrington Square sits on the Waterside - the east bank of the River Foyle - at Queens Quay, BT48 7AS. Parking is available at Ebrington itself, which is useful for cyclists arriving with bikes on a car rack. From the city centre on the west bank, the square is a short hop across the Peace Bridge, a distinctive cable-stayed footbridge that opened in 2011 as a symbol of cross-community connection. Bus services run to the Waterside and stop near the square. The A5 and A6 bring drivers in from Donegal and Belfast respectively; Derry is roughly 70 miles north-west of Belfast via the A6.

While you’re in Derry

Ebrington Square itself is worth arriving early to take in - built on the former parade ground of Ebrington Barracks, a British military base that operated for over 160 years, the square opened as a public space in 2012 and has been a centrepiece of the city’s regeneration since. Cross the Peace Bridge on foot after your ride and the city walls, the Bogside murals, and the Cathedral Quarter are all within easy walking distance. There is more to see in Derry and across Co. Derry.

Good to know

• Sunday 19 July 2026, first wave starts at 9:00 am
• Three routes: 30 km, 60 km, 100 km
• Entry: £22, includes medal and post-ride refreshments
• Pre-entry required - register at cyclingulster.org
• Road bikes recommended; mountain bikes accepted on the 30 km route
• Support vehicles and mechanical assistance at rest stops