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Lead Mines and Helens Tower

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Lead Mines and Helens Tower

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  • Information:
  • 🏷️ Type:• Natural Trails
  • 🚵 Riding:🌲 Cross Country⬇️ Downhill
  • 📏 Distance(s):Under 5km, 5-10km, 11-15km, 16-20km
  • 📍 Country:🌍 Northern-ireland
  • 🗺️ County:Down
  • 🌐 Website:Lead Mines and Helens Tower ↗

Trail grades, descriptions and other details on this page are provided for general guidance only and may be inaccurate, incomplete, or out of date. Always check on-site signage and current conditions before riding. See our trail safety disclaimer.

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Description

The Lead Mines and Helens Tower area near Conlig in County Down is a network of informal, rider-built singletrack trails spread across heathland, woodland and the old mining landscape between Conlig village and Helens Bay. The area covers a mix of natural downhill lines, rocky technical sections and flowing cross-country singletrack. There are no official waymarkers and the trails are not managed by any authority. Ride at your own risk and be courteous to other users - the area is shared with walkers, runners and, on occasion, motorbikes and scramblers.

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The Trails

  • Lead Mines: Rocky, technical terrain with drops and natural features through the old mining landscape. Best explored on a capable trail bike.
  • Helens Tower area: Flowing singletrack sections through woodland above Conlig. Links well with the Lead Mines for a natural loop covering a range of terrain.
  • Dufferin Trail: Multiple short singletrack sections from Conlig through the wider area.
  • Sunday Breakfast Run: A community route from Conlig following the Ulster Way down to Helens Bay, popular with local riders for a longer outing.

Getting Here

  • The area is centred on Conlig village, County Down, a short distance south-west of Bangor. There is no dedicated car park — riders typically park in Conlig village and ride in. No facilities on site.
  • These are unsanctioned natural trails with no signage. Local knowledge is helpful; exploring with someone who knows the area is recommended for first-time visitors.

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