Dundrod Circuit
Location
Near Lisburn (Co. Antrim), Northern Ireland
Current Local Time
Current Local Weather
Nearby Tracks
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Kirkistown Circuit
41.9 km away
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Isle of Man TT Mountain Course
113.8 km away
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Mondello Park
157.0 km away
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Knockhill Racing Circuit
237.1 km away
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Track Info
Dundrod Circuit - Dundrod, Lisburn, Northern Ireland
World-famous public-road course and home of the Ulster Grand Prix - clockwise - 7.401 mi / 11.910 km with 25 turns, fearsome flow and landmark corners like Leathemstown and the Lindsay Hairpin
When was the track built?
Dundrod is not a permanent circuit but a loop of closed public roads first used for racing in 1950. The course was tightened in 1965 with the addition of the Lindsay Hairpin, while the route continues to use sections of the B38 Hannahstown, B101 Leathemstown and B154 Quarterland/Tornagrough roads.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race day was the Ulster Trophy for Formula 1 on 12 August 1950, followed by the RAC Tourist Trophy sports-car classic a month later. From 1953 the Ulster Grand Prix motorcycle races relocated here from Clady and defined Dundrod’s legend.
What’s the circuit like?
- Flat-out road racing: Long, flowing blasts link blind, committing bends and crests. The course’s rhythm rewards bravery and precision more than stop-and-go power.
- Signature sections: Leathemstown Corner and Lindsay Hairpin bookend the eastern side, while features like Deer’s Leap, Joey’s Windmill and Jordan’s Cross define the lap’s heart-in-mouth commitment.
- Benchmark pace: Hickman’s 3:15.316 at 136.415 mph set during Superbike Race 1 in 2019 remains the all-time yardstick.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Superbike - race lap: 3:15.316 - Peter Hickman, BMW S1000RR, 2019 (136.415 mph).
- Sports cars - period reference: 4:42.0 - Mike Hawthorn, Jaguar D-Type, 1955 RAC Tourist Trophy (record lap for that event).
- “World’s fastest road race” claim: UGP reclaimed the title in 2019 with Hickman’s average eclipsing the Isle of Man TT figure at the time.
Why go?
Dundrod delivers pure road-racing spectacle: Superbikes threading country roads at aircraft-runway speeds, slipstream battles over crests and a festival atmosphere around the paddock. Its 2019 lap record cemented the UGP’s reputation as the sport’s ultimate speed test.
Where’s the best place to watch?
- Start/finish - Joey Dunlop Grandstand: View pit action, timing line and the charge through Dawson’s.
- Leathemstown Corner: Classic braking zone after a long run with great sightlines.
- Joey’s Windmill - Jordan’s Cross: Iconic mid-lap sequence to feel the speed and commitment at full lean.
Not just one series - headline history at Dundrod
RAC Tourist Trophy (1950–1951, 1953–1955): Sports-car greats like Stirling Moss and Mike Hawthorn starred before cars left the venue after 1955.
Ulster Trophy (1950–1953): Non-championship F1 and F2 brought Grand Prix names to the roads of County Antrim.
Ulster Grand Prix (1953–2019): Motorcycle classic that made Dundrod the byword for speed in road racing.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Dundrod Circuit - Lisburn area, Northern Ireland
Best options are driving via Lisburn on the B101 to Rock Road - Flowbog Road, limited Ulsterbus services to Dundrod area then short walk - taxi, and event car parks and camping fields activated around key vantage points. On race days, approach roads are closed during set hours and access is managed from designated directions.
Public transport - use Lisburn hub, then limited buses or a taxi
- From Lisburn: Ulsterbus 109 family serves Lisburn - Nutts Corner - Airport - Antrim. For the circuit area, many visitors ride to Lisburn or Nutts Corner and then use a taxi to Dundrod.
- Dundrod local stops: A 107 service lists Dundrod Church and Rusheyhill Cross Roads stops on weekdays only with very limited trips. Always check the current timetable.
- Planner tip: From Lisburn Buscentre there are infrequent direct buses to Dundrod area; many fans find Lisburn rail → taxi or bus to Nutts Corner → taxi the most reliable combo.
There is no rail to Dundrod. Use Belfast or Lisburn rail stations and connect by Ulsterbus - taxi.
Driving - approach via Lisburn or Nutts Corner and follow B101 signs
- From Lisburn: Take Pond Park Road B101 toward Rock Road B101, then follow event signs to Flowbog Road - Rusheyhill Road for the Start/Finish - paddock side. This is also the recommended entry when roads are closed.
- From Nutts Corner - M1 J9: Use A26 to Nutts Corner, then B101 toward Dundrod Village and follow the signed turns to Flowbog - Rusheyhill.
- From Belfast: M1 - A55 - A501 then B101 to Flowbog - Rusheyhill for managed access.
Race area restriction times apply on event days. Follow diversion signage and allow extra time.
Parking - event fields and paddock-side lots
- Start/Finish - paddock area: Spectator parking is available around the Start/Finish straight and Dawson's Bend when activated for race week.
- Flowbog Crossroads: Parking and camping fields are provided near this popular viewing sector; stewards direct cars to the active fields.
Camping - designated fields on race week
- Official areas: Camping is typically available at Flowbog Crossroads and near Dawson's Bend during Bike Week - Ulster GP events. Facilities are basic and vary by year.
Taxis and set downs
- Set destination: Dundrod Circuit - Start/Finish BT28 3TB or Rusheyhill Road, Dundrod. Marshals route drop off - pick up to the active gates.
- From Lisburn - Belfast International: Taxis are the simplest last leg, especially when bus frequencies are low.
Walking from bus stops - car parks
- Dundrod Church - Rusheyhill Cross Roads stops: Expect a 10 - 25 minute walk depending on your chosen sector and gate. Follow event signage and marshal direction.
- From event fields: Allow 5 - 20 minutes on grass banks and rural lanes to reach viewing points such as Start/Finish, Rock Bends, and Lindsay Hairpin.
Airports and longer trips
- Belfast International BFS → Dundrod: approach via Nutts Corner roundabout then B101 to Dundrod Village - Flowbog.
- Belfast City BHD → Lisburn: connect by road to Lisburn then follow the B101 approach described above.
About the venue - quick context
- Public road circuit 11.910 km - 25 turns: Home of the Ulster Grand Prix around Dundrod - fastest road race laps set here in 2019.
- Key viewing sectors: Start/Finish, Rock Bends, Leathemstown, Deer’s Leap, Quarterlands, Lindsay Hairpin, Flowbog Crossroads.
Quick guide - how to get closest
- Drivers: Lisburn → B101 Rock Road → Flowbog - Rusheyhill for Start/Finish - paddock. Follow diversion signs on closure periods.
- Bus users: Use 109 corridor to Lisburn - Nutts Corner and taxi, or limited 107 stops at Dundrod Church - Rusheyhill X Roads on weekdays only.
- Parking - camping: event fields at Flowbog Crossroads and near Dawson’s Bend when activated.
- Postcode for sat nav: BT28 3TB.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Dundrod Circuit - Lisburn - County Antrim (Northern Ireland)
Whether you are here for road racing at Dundrod, classic parades, club runs or a heritage visit to the famous course, these fast public roads loop over open farmland and heath just outside Lisburn - with gardens, museums, mountains and coast all close by for non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the course
- W5 Science & Discovery - Belfast: Hands on galleries and climbing frame for a great rainy day option by the River Lagan.
- Titanic Belfast: Landmark museum at the historic slipways with interactive exhibits and a short shipyard walk.
- Ulster Museum - Botanic Gardens: Dinosaurs to Irish art indoors, glasshouse gardens outdoors for a mixed age visit.
- Antrim Castle Gardens & Clotworthy House: Formal walks, cafés and riverside lawns - easy with buggies.
- Exploris Aquarium - Portaferry: Seals and tropical tanks that pair well with the short Strangford ferry ride.
- Colin Glen Adventure Park: Forest zip lines, alpine coaster and mini golf on the Belfast side of the hills.
Popular venues use timed entry in school holidays. Morning slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions or evening paddock walks.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Hillsborough Castle & Gardens: State rooms, walled gardens and lakeside paths 20 minutes from Dundrod.
- Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum: Weaving heritage and local history right in Lisburn city.
- Ulster Aviation Society - Maze Long Kesh: Hangars with classic aircraft and tours on selected dates. Pre booking usually required.
- Crumlin Road Gaol - Belfast: Atmospheric guided tours through Victorian cell blocks and tunnels.
- SS Nomadic & Maritime Mile: Pair the last White Star vessel with outdoor sculptures and waterfront cafés.
Eat and drink like a local
- Lisburn & Hillsborough: Gastropubs, bakeries and coffee bars for picnic supplies and post session dinners.
- Belfast city: Cathedral Quarter and St George’s Market for street food, seafood and local bakes.
- County Down - coast: Chowder, mussels and fish suppers in Strangford or Portaferry after a loughside stroll.
- Sweet stops: Traybakes, fifteens and ice cream vans appear at laybys and viewpoints on sunny weekends.
- Race week tip: Reserve Friday - Saturday tables in Lisburn, Hillsborough and Belfast when a headline meeting is scheduled.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Divis & the Black Mountain: Short ridge trails over Belfast with wide views and café stops at the trailhead.
- Cave Hill Country Park: Steeper loops to Napoleon’s Nose and the castle for big skyline photos.
- Lagan Towpath - Lisburn to Belfast: Flat greenway cycling and riverside walks with frequent coffee stops.
- Crawfordsburn Country Park - Helen’s Bay: Forest and beach paths for a sea air reset 35 - 45 minutes away.
- Glenariff Forest Park: Boardwalks and waterfalls in the Antrim Glens if you want a longer scenic half day.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Belfast core - 25 to 40 minutes. Titanic Belfast, SS Nomadic, W5 and Cathedral Quarter street art.
- Causeway Coast - 75 to 110 minutes. Giant’s Causeway, Carrick a Rede rope bridge and Portstewart promenade.
- Mourne Mountains - Newcastle - 60 to 90 minutes. Forest parks, seaside walks and café lined streets.
- Strangford Lough loop - 35 to 70 minutes. Castle Ward, picnic coves and the Portaferry ferry crossing.
- Armagh - 50 to 75 minutes. Planetarium, Observatory and twin cathedrals for a compact culture day.
Times are approximate and rise on headline weekends. Castles, museums and adventure parks may require dated tickets or have last entry cutoffs.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak road racing - Traditionally late summer when events are scheduled. Local B&Bs and Belfast hotels fill Thursday - Sunday, with evening fan meets and village pop ups around the course.
- Weather - Maritime and changeable. Expect bright spells, brisk winds across open moorland and quick showers. Pack layers, a light rain shell, waterproof footwear for grassy banks and sunscreen for clear breaks.
Practical notes during race weeks
- Public road course: Spectator areas, banks and crossings are only available when officially opened by the event. Outside those windows the roads are live traffic routes.
- Access & movement: Once closures begin you may be inside the course for several hours. Plan food, water and any family needs before road closing times.
- Ground & facilities: Long, exposed verges with limited permanent cover. A compact folding chair or seat pad and refillable bottles help on warm days.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, warm layer for breezy hilltops, rain cover, sturdy shoes for wet grass and a small torch for evening walks to parking fields.
- Respect farmland: Stay off crops and signed private property, close gates behind you and follow marshal instructions at all times.
Road racing calendars and operating plans can change - always check official event communications and attraction sites for your exact dates.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location
Near Lisburn (Co. Antrim), Northern Ireland
Current Local Time
Current Local Weather
Track Info
Dundrod Circuit - Dundrod, Lisburn, Northern Ireland
World-famous public-road course and home of the Ulster Grand Prix - clockwise - 7.401 mi / 11.910 km with 25 turns, fearsome flow and landmark corners like Leathemstown and the Lindsay Hairpin
When was the track built?
Dundrod is not a permanent circuit but a loop of closed public roads first used for racing in 1950. The course was tightened in 1965 with the addition of the Lindsay Hairpin, while the route continues to use sections of the B38 Hannahstown, B101 Leathemstown and B154 Quarterland/Tornagrough roads.
When was its first race?
The venue’s first race day was the Ulster Trophy for Formula 1 on 12 August 1950, followed by the RAC Tourist Trophy sports-car classic a month later. From 1953 the Ulster Grand Prix motorcycle races relocated here from Clady and defined Dundrod’s legend.
What’s the circuit like?
- Flat-out road racing: Long, flowing blasts link blind, committing bends and crests. The course’s rhythm rewards bravery and precision more than stop-and-go power.
- Signature sections: Leathemstown Corner and Lindsay Hairpin bookend the eastern side, while features like Deer’s Leap, Joey’s Windmill and Jordan’s Cross define the lap’s heart-in-mouth commitment.
- Benchmark pace: Hickman’s 3:15.316 at 136.415 mph set during Superbike Race 1 in 2019 remains the all-time yardstick.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Superbike - race lap: 3:15.316 - Peter Hickman, BMW S1000RR, 2019 (136.415 mph).
- Sports cars - period reference: 4:42.0 - Mike Hawthorn, Jaguar D-Type, 1955 RAC Tourist Trophy (record lap for that event).
- “World’s fastest road race” claim: UGP reclaimed the title in 2019 with Hickman’s average eclipsing the Isle of Man TT figure at the time.
Why go?
Dundrod delivers pure road-racing spectacle: Superbikes threading country roads at aircraft-runway speeds, slipstream battles over crests and a festival atmosphere around the paddock. Its 2019 lap record cemented the UGP’s reputation as the sport’s ultimate speed test.
Where’s the best place to watch?
- Start/finish - Joey Dunlop Grandstand: View pit action, timing line and the charge through Dawson’s.
- Leathemstown Corner: Classic braking zone after a long run with great sightlines.
- Joey’s Windmill - Jordan’s Cross: Iconic mid-lap sequence to feel the speed and commitment at full lean.
Not just one series - headline history at Dundrod
RAC Tourist Trophy (1950–1951, 1953–1955): Sports-car greats like Stirling Moss and Mike Hawthorn starred before cars left the venue after 1955.
Ulster Trophy (1950–1953): Non-championship F1 and F2 brought Grand Prix names to the roads of County Antrim.
Ulster Grand Prix (1953–2019): Motorcycle classic that made Dundrod the byword for speed in road racing.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Dundrod Circuit - Lisburn area, Northern Ireland
Best options are driving via Lisburn on the B101 to Rock Road - Flowbog Road, limited Ulsterbus services to Dundrod area then short walk - taxi, and event car parks and camping fields activated around key vantage points. On race days, approach roads are closed during set hours and access is managed from designated directions.
Public transport - use Lisburn hub, then limited buses or a taxi
- From Lisburn: Ulsterbus 109 family serves Lisburn - Nutts Corner - Airport - Antrim. For the circuit area, many visitors ride to Lisburn or Nutts Corner and then use a taxi to Dundrod.
- Dundrod local stops: A 107 service lists Dundrod Church and Rusheyhill Cross Roads stops on weekdays only with very limited trips. Always check the current timetable.
- Planner tip: From Lisburn Buscentre there are infrequent direct buses to Dundrod area; many fans find Lisburn rail → taxi or bus to Nutts Corner → taxi the most reliable combo.
There is no rail to Dundrod. Use Belfast or Lisburn rail stations and connect by Ulsterbus - taxi.
Driving - approach via Lisburn or Nutts Corner and follow B101 signs
- From Lisburn: Take Pond Park Road B101 toward Rock Road B101, then follow event signs to Flowbog Road - Rusheyhill Road for the Start/Finish - paddock side. This is also the recommended entry when roads are closed.
- From Nutts Corner - M1 J9: Use A26 to Nutts Corner, then B101 toward Dundrod Village and follow the signed turns to Flowbog - Rusheyhill.
- From Belfast: M1 - A55 - A501 then B101 to Flowbog - Rusheyhill for managed access.
Race area restriction times apply on event days. Follow diversion signage and allow extra time.
Parking - event fields and paddock-side lots
- Start/Finish - paddock area: Spectator parking is available around the Start/Finish straight and Dawson's Bend when activated for race week.
- Flowbog Crossroads: Parking and camping fields are provided near this popular viewing sector; stewards direct cars to the active fields.
Camping - designated fields on race week
- Official areas: Camping is typically available at Flowbog Crossroads and near Dawson's Bend during Bike Week - Ulster GP events. Facilities are basic and vary by year.
Taxis and set downs
- Set destination: Dundrod Circuit - Start/Finish BT28 3TB or Rusheyhill Road, Dundrod. Marshals route drop off - pick up to the active gates.
- From Lisburn - Belfast International: Taxis are the simplest last leg, especially when bus frequencies are low.
Walking from bus stops - car parks
- Dundrod Church - Rusheyhill Cross Roads stops: Expect a 10 - 25 minute walk depending on your chosen sector and gate. Follow event signage and marshal direction.
- From event fields: Allow 5 - 20 minutes on grass banks and rural lanes to reach viewing points such as Start/Finish, Rock Bends, and Lindsay Hairpin.
Airports and longer trips
- Belfast International BFS → Dundrod: approach via Nutts Corner roundabout then B101 to Dundrod Village - Flowbog.
- Belfast City BHD → Lisburn: connect by road to Lisburn then follow the B101 approach described above.
About the venue - quick context
- Public road circuit 11.910 km - 25 turns: Home of the Ulster Grand Prix around Dundrod - fastest road race laps set here in 2019.
- Key viewing sectors: Start/Finish, Rock Bends, Leathemstown, Deer’s Leap, Quarterlands, Lindsay Hairpin, Flowbog Crossroads.
Quick guide - how to get closest
- Drivers: Lisburn → B101 Rock Road → Flowbog - Rusheyhill for Start/Finish - paddock. Follow diversion signs on closure periods.
- Bus users: Use 109 corridor to Lisburn - Nutts Corner and taxi, or limited 107 stops at Dundrod Church - Rusheyhill X Roads on weekdays only.
- Parking - camping: event fields at Flowbog Crossroads and near Dawson’s Bend when activated.
- Postcode for sat nav: BT28 3TB.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Dundrod Circuit - Lisburn - County Antrim (Northern Ireland)
Whether you are here for road racing at Dundrod, classic parades, club runs or a heritage visit to the famous course, these fast public roads loop over open farmland and heath just outside Lisburn - with gardens, museums, mountains and coast all close by for non race days.
Family friendly highlights near the course
- W5 Science & Discovery - Belfast: Hands on galleries and climbing frame for a great rainy day option by the River Lagan.
- Titanic Belfast: Landmark museum at the historic slipways with interactive exhibits and a short shipyard walk.
- Ulster Museum - Botanic Gardens: Dinosaurs to Irish art indoors, glasshouse gardens outdoors for a mixed age visit.
- Antrim Castle Gardens & Clotworthy House: Formal walks, cafés and riverside lawns - easy with buggies.
- Exploris Aquarium - Portaferry: Seals and tropical tanks that pair well with the short Strangford ferry ride.
- Colin Glen Adventure Park: Forest zip lines, alpine coaster and mini golf on the Belfast side of the hills.
Popular venues use timed entry in school holidays. Morning slots help if you plan to return for afternoon sessions or evening paddock walks.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Hillsborough Castle & Gardens: State rooms, walled gardens and lakeside paths 20 minutes from Dundrod.
- Irish Linen Centre & Lisburn Museum: Weaving heritage and local history right in Lisburn city.
- Ulster Aviation Society - Maze Long Kesh: Hangars with classic aircraft and tours on selected dates. Pre booking usually required.
- Crumlin Road Gaol - Belfast: Atmospheric guided tours through Victorian cell blocks and tunnels.
- SS Nomadic & Maritime Mile: Pair the last White Star vessel with outdoor sculptures and waterfront cafés.
Eat and drink like a local
- Lisburn & Hillsborough: Gastropubs, bakeries and coffee bars for picnic supplies and post session dinners.
- Belfast city: Cathedral Quarter and St George’s Market for street food, seafood and local bakes.
- County Down - coast: Chowder, mussels and fish suppers in Strangford or Portaferry after a loughside stroll.
- Sweet stops: Traybakes, fifteens and ice cream vans appear at laybys and viewpoints on sunny weekends.
- Race week tip: Reserve Friday - Saturday tables in Lisburn, Hillsborough and Belfast when a headline meeting is scheduled.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Divis & the Black Mountain: Short ridge trails over Belfast with wide views and café stops at the trailhead.
- Cave Hill Country Park: Steeper loops to Napoleon’s Nose and the castle for big skyline photos.
- Lagan Towpath - Lisburn to Belfast: Flat greenway cycling and riverside walks with frequent coffee stops.
- Crawfordsburn Country Park - Helen’s Bay: Forest and beach paths for a sea air reset 35 - 45 minutes away.
- Glenariff Forest Park: Boardwalks and waterfalls in the Antrim Glens if you want a longer scenic half day.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Belfast core - 25 to 40 minutes. Titanic Belfast, SS Nomadic, W5 and Cathedral Quarter street art.
- Causeway Coast - 75 to 110 minutes. Giant’s Causeway, Carrick a Rede rope bridge and Portstewart promenade.
- Mourne Mountains - Newcastle - 60 to 90 minutes. Forest parks, seaside walks and café lined streets.
- Strangford Lough loop - 35 to 70 minutes. Castle Ward, picnic coves and the Portaferry ferry crossing.
- Armagh - 50 to 75 minutes. Planetarium, Observatory and twin cathedrals for a compact culture day.
Times are approximate and rise on headline weekends. Castles, museums and adventure parks may require dated tickets or have last entry cutoffs.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak road racing - Traditionally late summer when events are scheduled. Local B&Bs and Belfast hotels fill Thursday - Sunday, with evening fan meets and village pop ups around the course.
- Weather - Maritime and changeable. Expect bright spells, brisk winds across open moorland and quick showers. Pack layers, a light rain shell, waterproof footwear for grassy banks and sunscreen for clear breaks.
Practical notes during race weeks
- Public road course: Spectator areas, banks and crossings are only available when officially opened by the event. Outside those windows the roads are live traffic routes.
- Access & movement: Once closures begin you may be inside the course for several hours. Plan food, water and any family needs before road closing times.
- Ground & facilities: Long, exposed verges with limited permanent cover. A compact folding chair or seat pad and refillable bottles help on warm days.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, warm layer for breezy hilltops, rain cover, sturdy shoes for wet grass and a small torch for evening walks to parking fields.
- Respect farmland: Stay off crops and signed private property, close gates behind you and follow marshal instructions at all times.
Road racing calendars and operating plans can change - always check official event communications and attraction sites for your exact dates.
