Circles of Stone field guide
Giant's Ring
County Down, Northern Ireland
Before you go
Entry is free, although temporary restrictions can occur. Check current conditions before travel. The official site address is off Ballynahatty Road; alternatively, the National Trust promotes a walking route from Minnowburn car park, Edenderry Road, BT8 8LD. Keep dogs on leads and respect grazing livestock.
Postcode caution: BT8 8LE is a useful navigation reference, not a guarantee of legal or available parking.
- Grid reference
- J 32720 67700
- Useful postcode
- BT8 8LE
- Monument coordinates
- 54.54030, -5.95000
Pack and plan
- Charged phone and a paper map or saved offline map
- Water, layers and footwear suited to the terrain
- Current weather, daylight and access information checked
- Someone told where you are going on remote walks
What you are looking for
A vast Neolithic earthwork encloses a central stone-built tomb on the southern edge of Belfast.
The bank and internal ditch describe an enclosure more than 200 metres across. At its centre, five upright stones support a large capstone: the exposed chamber of a tomb once covered by a cairn of stones and earth.
Field notes
Weather and light: ______________________________________________
First feature spotted: ___________________________________________
Something the map did not show: _________________________________
Walk gently
- Check current access and weather before setting out.
- Keep dogs under close control around livestock.
- Do not climb, move stones, light fires or leave offerings.
- Take all litter home and protect fragile ground.
If something goes wrong
In an emergency call 999 or 112. Give the grid reference or coordinates above, describe your approach route, and do not put yourself at further risk.