Beaghmore: A Portal to the Past

Nestled in the Sperrin Mountains of County Tyrone, the Beaghmore Stone Circles (just ½ km from Shepherd’s Rest Campsite) are one of Ireland’s most enigmatic archaeological sites. Dating back 3,000+ years, this complex of seven stone circles, cairns, and alignments is shrouded in legends:

Druid rituals.

Some believe the stones mark ancient ceremonial grounds.

Astronomical alignments

Perfect for solstice sunrises and lunar events.

Energy vortexes

Dowsers report strong ley line intersections here.

Why Stay at Shepherd’s Rest?

  1. The Closest Campsite to Beaghmore – 5 mile drive.
    Sunrise/sunset access: Beat the crowds and experience the circles in solitude.
  2. Explore Lough Fea & Davagh Forest
    Lough Fea (5 min drive): A serene lake for fishing, picnics, and birdwatching.
    Davagh Forest (10 min drive): Home to the OM Dark Sky Park—bring a telescope!
  3. Unique Camping Packages
    “Celtic Twilight Retreat”: Includes a guided evening walk to Beaghmore + star map.
    “Druid’s Rest”: Borrow dowsing rods and a local myth guidebook.

How to Visit Beaghmore Stone Circles

📍 Location: Google Maps Direction
🚗 Parking: Free at Beaghmore
🌌 Best Time to Visit: Summer solstice (June 21st) for alignments.

New moons for unmatched stargazing.

⚠ Respect the Site:

Avoid climbing stones; leave no trace.

Book Your Adventure

Shepherd’s Rest Campsite offers:
✅ Dog-friendly pitches (perfect for hiking to Beaghmore).
✅ Pub on-site—swap stories over a post-exploration pint.
✅ Fire pits under the Dark Sky-certified heavens.

Opening Ritual (Beginning Your Visit)

Purpose:

To attune to the site’s energy, set respectful boundaries, and invite guidance.

Steps:

  1. Stand at the Perimeter
    Before entering the circles, pause at the edge. Take 3 deep breaths to centre yourself.
  2. Ground Yourself
    Place your bare hands or feet on the earth (if possible). Visualize roots growing from your body into the ground, connecting you to the land.
  3. Silent Permission & Offering
    Whisper or think:
    “Spirits of this place, ancestors, and guardians, I come with respect. May my presence be in harmony with your wisdom.”
    Leave a small offering (a pinch of oats, a wildflower, or a coin) outside the circle.
  4. Circle of Light
    Walk sunwise (clockwise) around the outer edge of the stones, visualizing a soft white or gold light surrounding you for protection.
  5. Enter with Intention
    Step into the circle and state your purpose aloud or silently (e.g., ”I seek clarity” or ”I honour this sacred space”).
Beaghmore Stone Circles 01
Beaghmore Stone Circles 02

Closing Ritual (Ending Your Visit)

Purpose:

To release any absorbed energy, express gratitude, and return to everyday awareness.

Steps:

  1. Stand at the Centre
    • Take a moment to feel the energy of the stones around you. Place your hands on your heart.
    • Give Thanks
    • Say or think:
      “I thank the spirits of this land, the ancestors, and the stones for their wisdom and presence. May our exchange bring balance.”
    • Energy Release
      Shake out your hands and feet. Imagine any excess energy flowing back into the earth.
    • Walk Widdershins (Counterclockwise)
      Slowly walk counterclockwise around the circle’s edge, visualizing your protective light dissolving as you exit.
    • Final Grounding
      Touch the earth again outside the circle. Eat a bite of dark chocolate or bread to reconnect with your body.

Why This Ritual Matters

  • Respects Celtic Tradition
     Aligns with ancient practices of sunwise movement and offerings.
  • Psychic Hygiene
    Prevents energy “cling” after visiting potent sites.
  • Deepens Experience
    Creates a mindful container for your visit.
Beaghmore Stone Circles 03

Unknown Circles near The Shepherds Rest Pub Campsite.

Do you like to discover something new & unknown?

Just a few minutes away from our campsite is an unknown place with circles visible only from above. Even locals don’t really know much about this place…