Audio Guide of Beaghmore Stone Circles

The Beaghmore Stone Circles are outdoors and always accessible, open 24 hours a day. There is no gate or closing time. The easiest way to get there is by car. They are located in County Tyrone, near Cookstown, Northern Ireland. I recommend using GPS for 'Beaghmore Stone Circles' or 'BT80 9DY'. There is a small free car park on site. You can find more details on how to get there on the Discover Northern Ireland page.

Not at all! The Beaghmore Stone Circles are completely free to visit. There are no ticket booths or Historic Environment Division staff on site, so you can explore at your own pace at no cost. It is a fantastic way to connect with history without spending a fortune.

For a relaxed visit and enough time to appreciate every detail of the stone circles and alignments, I would recommend setting aside between 30 minutes and 1 hour. If you are passionate about photography or if the weather is good for a picnic, you might stay a little longer, but in general, one hour is enough for a thorough visit.

The Beaghmore Stone Circles date from the early Bronze Age, between 2000 and 1200 BC. They are believed to have served ritual and astronomical purposes, aligned with the sun and the moon. They were discovered during peat cutting in the 1940s. They are a fascinating testament to the engineering and beliefs of our ancestors. You can learn more about their history on the NI Direct website.

As for the time of year, spring and summer (from May to September) offer the most pleasant weather and longer days. However, for a more mystical experience with fewer people, sunrise or sunset, especially on clear days, are spectacular because of the way the light falls on the stones. Keep in mind that the site can be windy and damp, so check the forecast. And a dry day is always the best option!

The ground at Beaghmore is uneven and the surface is grassy, which can be soft or wet, especially after rain. There are no paved paths between the circles. This can make access difficult for wheelchairs or strollers. It is a rustic and natural site. Caution is recommended, and if possible, check the weather conditions before you go.

Absolutely! The region has a lot to offer. If you are interested in ancient sites, you can visit Loughcrew Cairns. If you prefer something different, Davagh Forest Park, with its visitor centre and the Davagh Forest Park Observatory, is very close and ideal for lovers of nature and astronomy. Cookstown also has some local shops and restaurants.

Of course! First, wear comfortable waterproof footwear, as the ground can be soft. Even in summer, a windproof jacket is a good idea. There are no facilities on site (toilets or shops), so plan accordingly by bringing water or snacks. And most importantly, respect the site! Do not take stones or leave litter, and keep your distance from the structures to help preserve them. Enjoy the magic of this ancient place!