Today you begin the return to Belfast, cycling inland as you make your way up the Ards Peninsula, passing local landmarks en route, including the Echlinville Whiskey Distillery, Northern Ireland’s first licensed distillery in over 125 years, distilling its first spirit in 2013 and now releasing gin under its own name. The brainchild of Feckin’ Irish whiskey’s Shane Braniff, it's also home to Dunville's Irish whiskey and Bán Poitin.
The Distillery has a new gift shop, so an ideal opportunity presents itself for a spot of souvenir shopping: from a wide range of beautiful giftware, including clothing, hip flasks, glasses, candles and homeware (Bed & Bike can arrange for your goodies to await you – in one piece - back at Jury’s).
We recommend a delicious deli lunch in the small village of Greyabbey.
Echlinville Distillery
Greyabby Village
Then it’s onto Newtownards, taking in views of Scrabo Tower (one of the Game of Thrones set locations); the landmark was built above Newtownards in 1857 as a memorial to Charles Stewart, 3rd Marquess of Londonderry who was one of the Duke of Wellington's generals during the Napoleonic Wars.
You ultimately rejoin the Comber Greenway, cycling back into Belfast along the traffic-free Comber Greenway.
Day 4: 40 miles, elevation:
You overnight back at Jury’s hotel, from where Belfast City centre and all it has to offer in the way of night life is only a short walk away.
This evening there is no dinner included; for those wishing to head out independently to explore Belfast’s thriving restaurant and bar scene, don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations!
We have allowed for a slightly later start on Day 5, so enjoy a welcome lie in!