Top 10 Natural Monuments around Longfield
Best natural monuments around Longfield include a variety of geological formations and historical sites. The area features ancient burial cairns, unique stone circles, and volcanic landscapes, offering diverse natural attractions. These sites provide insights into the region's geological past and historical significance. The landscape is characterized by varied terrain, from mountain summits to forested areas.
Best natural monuments around Longfield
- The most popular natural monuments is Slieve Gullion Summit, a volcano that hosts the highest Passage Tomb in the…
Last updated: June 30, 2026
Slieve Gullion Summit
Highlight • Volcano
Translated by Google •
Tip by
North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough
Highlight • Summit
Translated by Google •
Tip by
Sign up now to discover places like this
Get recommendations on the best single tracks, peaks, & plenty of other exciting outdoor places.
Sign up for free
Druids' Circle, Ravensdale Forest
Highlight • Historical Site
Tip by
The Witch Sculpture
Highlight • Forest
Tip by
Calliagh Beara Lough
Highlight • Lake
Tip by
Sign up for free to discover even more natural monuments around Longfield.
Sign up for free
Already have an account?
Start today with a free account
Your next adventure awaits.
Login or Signup
Tips from the Community
Druid’s Circle, Clermont Estate: this small oval stone circle above the Flurry River, marked as both “Standing Stone” and “Druids Circle” on old maps, was likely uncovered in 1840 by Lord Clermont. Though some believe it’s prehistoric, others argue it may be 19th-century landscaping. Its irregular layout and re-set stones cast doubt on its authenticity. Still, it’s a scenic and mysterious woodland stop.
1
0
In the middle of the forest, you suddenly find yourself standing in front of a bizarre stone creature - the "witch". She looks as if she has just risen from the mossy ground, with a mischievous smile and deep, expressive wrinkles on her face. This artfully designed stone is one of those unexpected encounters that transform the forest into a small adventure land. When you explore this magical place surrounded by old trees and whispering leaves, it almost seems as if the witch is greeting you with a wink. Here you can linger for a moment, enjoy the silence and let your imagination run wild - who knows what stories this forest still has to tell?
1
0
Hidden in Ravensdale Forest, off the main paths, you come across a mystical stone circle that raises questions: Was it the Druids who held their mysterious rituals here, or was it the eccentric 19th century landowner who wanted to immortalize himself with this project? Nobody knows for sure, and that makes this place all the more fascinating. The eight stones, arranged in an oval, seem like silent witnesses to a time long gone. On the maps, the circle is referred to as both the 'Standing Stone' and the 'Druids Circle', and you immediately sense that this place exudes a special aura. The stone circle is just a short climb from the Flurry River, in the middle of the old Lord Clermont Estate. Up here, in the shade of the trees, it feels like you have entered another world. The stones, covered in moss, invite you to pause and enjoy the tranquility of the forest.
2
0
As soon as you cross the gentle ridge of Slieve Gullion, the North Cairn stretches out before you - a slightly smaller hill than its southern neighbour, but no less impressive. The stones that gather here seem like silent sentinels, witnesses of the distant Bronze Age. Two ancient stone boxes were once found here during excavations, which lay hidden in the depths of history. The North Cairn, with its diameter of around 18 metres, invites you to pause for a moment and enjoy the peace. But it is not just the Cairn that is fascinating. Right next to it lies "Calliagh Beara's Lough", a quiet mountain lake that, according to legend, is the home of the witch Beara. On a clear day, the sky is reflected in the calm waters and you can almost feel the ancient magic of this place coming to life. The road here may be rocky, but the landscape rewards with sweeping views and a touch of mysticism that makes Slieve Gullion something special.
1
0
This stone circle, marked on the OSI map as ‘Standing Stone' & on the Historic map as 'Druids Circle', is located 100m east, uphill from the Flurry River (Glais Ghallaigh), in woods on the old Lord Clermont Estate. The circle consists of eight regularly spaced stones enclosing an oval area. https://www.megalithicmonumentsofireland.com/COUNTIES/LOUTH/RavensdalePark_StoneCircle.html
2
0
This small forest at the foot of Slieve Gullion seems to be straight out of a fairy tale. Running through it will leave you enchanted, and you'll come across curious sculptures like this giant witch's face.
0
0
This lough, located between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion, is the highest in Northern Ireland.
0
0
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some of the most popular natural monuments to visit around Longfield?
Visitors frequently enjoy the unique geological and historical sites. Among the most popular are Slieve Gullion Summit, an extinct volcano with the highest Passage Tomb in the British Isles, and the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion and Calliagh Beara's Lough, which features Bronze Age stone boxes and a scenic mountain lake.
Are there any historical or ancient sites among the natural monuments?
Yes, the area is rich in historical natural monuments. Besides the ancient Passage Tomb on Slieve Gullion Summit and the Bronze Age stone boxes at the North Cairn of Slieve Gullion, you can also explore the intriguing Druids' Circle in Ravensdale Forest, a site with eight regularly spaced stones whose origins are debated between ancient druid meeting place or a 19th-century project.
What kind of natural features can I expect to see around Longfield?
The landscape around Longfield offers a diverse range of natural features. You can encounter volcanic landscapes, such as the extinct volcano of Slieve Gullion, ancient burial cairns, and tranquil forest settings like Ravensdale Forest. There are also mountain lakes, including Calliagh Beara Lough, which is the highest in Northern Ireland.
Are there family-friendly natural monuments or activities in the Longfield area?
For families, the area offers enchanting experiences. The forest surrounding The Witch Sculpture is particularly family-friendly, featuring a bizarre stone creature that adds a touch of magic to a walk. The area's forests and trails provide opportunities for imaginative exploration for all ages.
What outdoor activities can I do near these natural monuments?
The Longfield area is excellent for various outdoor activities. You can find numerous routes for hiking, cycling, and jogging. For example, there are easy hikes like the Giant's Lair Trail, moderate cycling routes such as the Giant's Lair – View of Slieve Gullion loop, and challenging running trails like the Slieve Gullion running loop. You can explore more options on the Longfield guide page.
Are there hiking trails near the natural monuments?
Yes, there are several hiking trails that allow you to explore the natural monuments. You can find easy hikes like the Slieve Gullion Summit loop from Ring of Gullion AONB, or the Slieve Gullion Summit – Calliagh Beara Lough loop. These trails offer a chance to experience the volcanic landscapes and ancient cairns up close. Discover more hiking routes on the Easy hikes around Longfield guide.
What do visitors enjoy most about the natural monuments around Longfield?
Visitors particularly appreciate the panoramic views from elevated points like Slieve Gullion Summit. The historical intrigue of sites like the Druids' Circle and the mystical atmosphere of places like Calliagh Beara's Lough also receive high praise. The combination of natural beauty and ancient history makes for a captivating experience.
Is there a mountain lake that is part of the natural monuments?
Yes, Calliagh Beara Lough is a significant natural monument. It is situated on the ridge between the northern and southern burial cairns of Slieve Gullion and holds the distinction of being the highest lough in Northern Ireland. Local folklore also associates it with the witch Beara, adding to its mystique.
Can I find unique geological features in the Longfield area?
Absolutely. The most prominent geological feature is Slieve Gullion, an extinct volcano that dominates the landscape. Its formation and the presence of glacial erratics (like the Soulbury Boot mentioned in broader regional context) highlight the area's fascinating geological past, shaped by ancient volcanic activity and ice ages.
What is the 'Ring of Gullion Way' and how does it relate to the natural monuments?
The 'Ring of Gullion Way' is a 57 km long marked circular hiking trail that leads around Slieve Gullion. A section of this trail, the 13 km long 'Slieve Gullion Walk', specifically leads from a parking lot to the summit and back, allowing visitors to experience the volcano and its associated natural monuments directly.
Are there any natural monuments that are particularly good for photography?
Many of the natural monuments offer excellent photographic opportunities. The panoramic views from Slieve Gullion Summit are spectacular, especially with the iconic Peace Pagoda in the distance (if referring to Willen Lake North, which is in a different Longfield context, but the guide data's Slieve Gullion offers great views). The mystical setting of the Druids' Circle in the forest and the serene Calliagh Beara Lough also provide unique and atmospheric shots.
What is the best time to visit the natural monuments around Longfield?
While specific seasonal tips for Longfield are not detailed, generally, the best time to visit natural monuments for hiking and outdoor activities is during the spring and summer months when the weather is milder and daylight hours are longer. Autumn also offers beautiful foliage. Always check local weather conditions before your visit, especially for mountain summits like Slieve Gullion, where conditions can change rapidly.
Most popular routes around Longfield
Most popular attractions around Longfield
Get inspired with the komoot mobile app
Explore more
Extend your search for the best caves by checking out these guides of the top ones around Longfield:
