Kirkistown Circuit
Location
Kircubbin, Co. Down, Northern Ireland
Current Local Time
Current Local Weather
Nearby Tracks
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Isle of Man TT Mountain Course
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Mondello Park
161.2 km away
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Knockhill Racing Circuit
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Oulton Park
235.0 km away
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Track Info
Kirkistown Circuit - Kircubbin, County Down, Northern Ireland
Ex-RAF airfield turned club-racing powerhouse - clockwise - short and fast 1.512 mi / 2.433 km lap with 9 turns, huge commitment through Debtor's Dip and a classic hairpin finale
When was the track built?
Laid out in 1953 on the northern runways and perimeter roads of RAF Kirkistown, a World War II satellite for Ballyhalbert that later became Royal Naval Air Station "HMS Corncrake II". Continuous upgrades over the decades added a proper pit lane in 2000, new paddock buildings in 2004 and a concrete pit wall in 2020.
When was its first race?
The venue's first race meeting was on 13 June 1953. Early years featured 500cc single-seaters and Formula Libra, with notable visitors like Le Mans winner Ivor Bueb. The layout has evolved with a back-straight chicane added in the 1970s and tightened in 1987.
What's the circuit like?
- Airfield fast - with teeth: A long main straight into Debtor's Dip sets the tone before the car is loaded for Fisherman's and the short shoot to the Crosslé Chicane. Mistakes are costly because momentum is everything.
- Hairpin heroics: Maguires Hairpin ends the lap and invites late dives after a high-speed run. The approach was slowed by the back-straight chicane to manage speeds.
- Benchmark pace: Philip Shields' 50.782 in a Dallara GP2 is the modern ceiling; the same stretch through Debtor's Dip sees 180 mph in that car on a flyer.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Outright car - race lap: 0:50.782 - Philip Shields, Dallara GP2, 2013.
- Historic first-meeting fastest lap: 71.406 mph - R. G. Lovell-Butt, Griffin Maserati, 1953.
- Motorcycle references: Ulster SBK timing lists 1:09.8 race laps for Moto-One class on the 1.512 mi course.
- Formula Ford - marquee event: Annual Martin Donnelly Trophy weekend produces sub-60s qualy laps in modern FF1600 machinery depending on conditions.
Earlier layouts measured 1.480 mi (1978–86) and 1.500 mi (1953–77), both with 9 and 6 turns respectively before the present 9-turn course.
Why go?
Because it's pure, visible speed. Kirkistown delivers elbows-out club racing, BOSS Ireland rockets, blue-riband Formula Ford duels and big Easter Monday bike crowds. The paddock is open and friendly, and you can see multiple corners from raised banks for great photos and constant action.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Debtor's Dip: Flat-out left where bravery pays - brilliant for on-the-edge photos and traffic management through a fast sweep.
- Crosslé Chicane: Overtaking attempts start here as drivers square the car for the dash to the hairpin.
- Maguires Hairpin: The prime divebomb zone and best place to watch last-lap lunges and switchbacks to the flag.
Not just one series - headline events at Kirkistown
Formula Ford 1600: Three big meetings each year culminating in the Martin Donnelly Trophy - a staple of the UK and Ireland FF1600 scene.
BOSS Ireland and single-seaters: F2, F3 and World Series machinery regularly headline with outright pace around the 50-second mark.
Motorcycle racing: Belfast & District MC Easter Monday and summer rounds bring packed two-wheel grids to the Ards Peninsula.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Kirkistown Racing Circuit - Kircubbin, County Down
Best options are driving via Newtownards to Kircubbin then Rubane Road, Translink bus route 9 or 10 to Kirkistown stops then short walk - taxi, and on site free parking. There is no rail on the Ards Peninsula, so buses - taxis are the practical public transport choice.
Public transport - Translink route 9 - 10 then short walk
- Belfast → Newtownards → Kircubbin: Take Translink services 9 - 10 toward Portaferry. Alight at Kirkistown, Golf Club or Kirkistown Primary School, then walk to Rubane Road for the circuit entrance.
- Stops near the circuit: Timetables list Golf Club and Kirkistown Primary School among the timing points, serving the immediate area around Rubane Road.
- Service notes: Frequencies vary by day and time. Always check the latest 9 - 10 timetable before travel.
There is no direct train. If arriving by rail into Belfast, transfer to Translink buses for Newtownards and the Ards Peninsula.
Driving - simple via Newtownards and Kircubbin
- From Belfast: Head to Newtownards then follow signs along the A20 toward Kircubbin - Portaferry. In Kircubbin, turn for Rubane Road and follow signs to the circuit entrance.
- Wayfinding: The site is signed locally as Kirkistown Racing Circuit, 130 Rubane Road, BT22 1AU.
Parking - free, stewarded on event days
- General parking: Free of charge in on site car parks. Obey restricted area signs and marshal direction.
- Overflow - traffic: On busy meetings, expect managed flows on approach roads and stewarded walking routes to admissions.
Stays - local B&Bs and an on site property
- Local options: The circuit lists B&Bs in the area and one property to rent at the track. Contact the office for availability.
- On site house: The circuit offers a rentable property accessed from within the venue on selected dates.
Taxis and set downs
- Set destination: Kirkistown Racing Circuit, 130 Rubane Road, Kircubbin BT22 1AU. Staff direct drop off - pick up to active gates on event days.
- From Newtownards Bus Station: If you prefer, take a taxi for the final stretch down the peninsula to the circuit.
Walking from bus stops - car parks
- From bus stops: The Kirkistown, Golf Club and Kirkistown Primary School stops are a short walk to Rubane Road. Follow event signage to admissions.
- From on site parking: Expect 5 - 15 minute stewarded walks to popular viewing points depending on your P zone.
About the venue - quick context
- Flat airfield circuit 2.43 km - clockwise: Northern Ireland’s busiest permanent road course, operated by the 500 Motor Racing Club of Ireland since the 1950s.
- Visitor listing: Regional tourism pages confirm the address and location in Kircubbin on the Ards Peninsula.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Drivers: Belfast → Newtownards → Kircubbin then Rubane Road to the gate.
- Bus users: Translink 9 - 10 to Kirkistown, Golf Club or Primary School stops, then walk.
- Parking: on site and free for spectators unless your event states otherwise.
- Staying over: local B&Bs plus an on site rental property via the circuit office.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Kirkistown Circuit - Ards Peninsula - County Down (Northern Ireland)
Whether you are here for Irish club racing, Formula Ford - saloons - sports cars, superkarts, time attack, sprints, test days or a trackday, this friendly ex airfield circuit sits between beaches and Strangford Lough with gardens, aquariums, castles and coastal walks to fill your non race time.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Exploris Aquarium - Portaferry: Seals, tropical tanks and touch pools in a compact, modern space. Perfect on breezy or showery days.
- Portaferry - Strangford Ferry: Short scenic crossing with castle views. Kids love it and you can grab an ice cream on either side.
- Mount Stewart - National Trust: World class gardens, lakeside walks and a good café only 20 - 25 minutes away.
- WWT Castle Espie - Comber: Wetland hides, woodland play and hands on nature zones around Strangford Lough.
- Pickie Funpark - Bangor: Pedalos, miniature train and a beachfront playground for a gentle half day.
- Ulster Folk Museum - Cultra: Open air historic village with indoor galleries - easy with buggies.
Popular family venues use dated tickets on weekends and school holidays. Book a morning slot if you plan to return for afternoon sessions at the circuit.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Titanic Belfast - Belfast: Landmark galleries telling the shipyard story, right beside the restored slipways.
- Downpatrick - Saint Patrick Centre: Pair with Down Cathedral and the Mound of Down for a compact heritage loop.
- Castle Ward - Strangford: Mansion, walled garden and loughside trails. Some Game of Thrones filming sites sit on the estate.
- Scrabo Tower - Newtownards: Short hill path to a volcanic plug and big views. Museum rooms open on selected days.
- North Down Museum - Bangor: Bite sized local history with a café and coastal promenade outside.
Eat and drink like a local
- Seafood on the peninsula: Portaferry and Strangford pubs serve chowder, mussels and day boat fish. Try a wharf side fish and chips for a quick win with kids.
- Bakery - deli stops: Newtownards and Kircubbin have solid bakeries for sausage rolls, traybakes and picnic supplies for the banks.
- County Down staples: Ulster fry for breakfast, Irish stew on cooler days and soda farls with butter after the chequered flag.
- Coffee with a view: Seafront cafés at Ballywalter, Cloughey and Ballyhalbert are ideal between sessions.
- Race week tip: Book Friday - Saturday tables in Portaferry, Strangford and Mount Stewart area eateries when a headline meeting is on.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Beaches close by: Cloughey, Ballywalter and Kearney village offer big skies, shell hunting and flat promenade strolls.
- Strangford Lough paddles: Guided kayak or SUP tours launch from Strangford or Portaferry on calm mornings.
- Nugent's Wood - Portaferry: Short bluebell woods loop with lough views - easy for small legs.
- Castlewellan Forest Park: Lake path, maze and bike hire if you want a larger green escape.
- Murlough National Nature Reserve - Newcastle: Boardwalks through dunes with Mourne Mountains backdrops.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Belfast - 45 to 70 minutes. Titanic Belfast, Cathedral Quarter street art and the Ulster Museum - a strong indoor day.
- Strangford - Portaferry loop - 20 to 35 minutes. Ferry ride, Castle Ward trails and Exploris Aquarium combo.
- Mount Stewart - Greyabbey - 20 to 30 minutes. Gardens plus antique shops and abbey ruins in the next village.
- Bangor - Cultra - 35 to 55 minutes. Pickie Funpark, coastal path and the Ulster Folk Museum.
- Mourne Mountains - Newcastle - 60 to 80 minutes. Seafront walks, forest parks and easy viewpoints.
Times are approximate and rise on headline weekends. National Trust houses, museums and aquariums often require timed tickets or have last entry cutoffs.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Spring through early autumn carries most race meetings, superkarts and time attack, with popular open trackdays sprinkled across the calendar. Local inns and seafront B&Bs fill Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Maritime and changeable. Expect bright spells, brisk sea breezes and quick showers. Pack layers, a light rain shell, waterproof footwear for dewy banks and sunscreen for clear breaks.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Public experiences and karting sessions run on select non event days and may pause on big weekends - check the weekly schedule.
- Ground and shade: Exposed grass banks and long walks between viewing points. A compact seat pad or folding chair and refillable bottles help on warm days.
- Coastal add ons: Tides and wind can affect beach comfort and watersports availability. Morning is usually calmer.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, sun protection, rain layers, spare socks for wet grass and a warm layer for sunset ferry rides.
Opening hours, seasonal programs, ferry operations and event week schedules can change - check official circuit and attraction sites for your exact dates.
Hotels & Accommodation
Location
Kircubbin, Co. Down, Northern Ireland
Current Local Time
Current Local Weather
Track Info
Kirkistown Circuit - Kircubbin, County Down, Northern Ireland
Ex-RAF airfield turned club-racing powerhouse - clockwise - short and fast 1.512 mi / 2.433 km lap with 9 turns, huge commitment through Debtor's Dip and a classic hairpin finale
When was the track built?
Laid out in 1953 on the northern runways and perimeter roads of RAF Kirkistown, a World War II satellite for Ballyhalbert that later became Royal Naval Air Station "HMS Corncrake II". Continuous upgrades over the decades added a proper pit lane in 2000, new paddock buildings in 2004 and a concrete pit wall in 2020.
When was its first race?
The venue's first race meeting was on 13 June 1953. Early years featured 500cc single-seaters and Formula Libra, with notable visitors like Le Mans winner Ivor Bueb. The layout has evolved with a back-straight chicane added in the 1970s and tightened in 1987.
What's the circuit like?
- Airfield fast - with teeth: A long main straight into Debtor's Dip sets the tone before the car is loaded for Fisherman's and the short shoot to the Crosslé Chicane. Mistakes are costly because momentum is everything.
- Hairpin heroics: Maguires Hairpin ends the lap and invites late dives after a high-speed run. The approach was slowed by the back-straight chicane to manage speeds.
- Benchmark pace: Philip Shields' 50.782 in a Dallara GP2 is the modern ceiling; the same stretch through Debtor's Dip sees 180 mph in that car on a flyer.
Lap records and benchmarks (by series)
- Outright car - race lap: 0:50.782 - Philip Shields, Dallara GP2, 2013.
- Historic first-meeting fastest lap: 71.406 mph - R. G. Lovell-Butt, Griffin Maserati, 1953.
- Motorcycle references: Ulster SBK timing lists 1:09.8 race laps for Moto-One class on the 1.512 mi course.
- Formula Ford - marquee event: Annual Martin Donnelly Trophy weekend produces sub-60s qualy laps in modern FF1600 machinery depending on conditions.
Earlier layouts measured 1.480 mi (1978–86) and 1.500 mi (1953–77), both with 9 and 6 turns respectively before the present 9-turn course.
Why go?
Because it's pure, visible speed. Kirkistown delivers elbows-out club racing, BOSS Ireland rockets, blue-riband Formula Ford duels and big Easter Monday bike crowds. The paddock is open and friendly, and you can see multiple corners from raised banks for great photos and constant action.
Where's the best place to watch?
- Debtor's Dip: Flat-out left where bravery pays - brilliant for on-the-edge photos and traffic management through a fast sweep.
- Crosslé Chicane: Overtaking attempts start here as drivers square the car for the dash to the hairpin.
- Maguires Hairpin: The prime divebomb zone and best place to watch last-lap lunges and switchbacks to the flag.
Not just one series - headline events at Kirkistown
Formula Ford 1600: Three big meetings each year culminating in the Martin Donnelly Trophy - a staple of the UK and Ireland FF1600 scene.
BOSS Ireland and single-seaters: F2, F3 and World Series machinery regularly headline with outright pace around the 50-second mark.
Motorcycle racing: Belfast & District MC Easter Monday and summer rounds bring packed two-wheel grids to the Ards Peninsula.
Transportation & Parking
Getting to Kirkistown Racing Circuit - Kircubbin, County Down
Best options are driving via Newtownards to Kircubbin then Rubane Road, Translink bus route 9 or 10 to Kirkistown stops then short walk - taxi, and on site free parking. There is no rail on the Ards Peninsula, so buses - taxis are the practical public transport choice.
Public transport - Translink route 9 - 10 then short walk
- Belfast → Newtownards → Kircubbin: Take Translink services 9 - 10 toward Portaferry. Alight at Kirkistown, Golf Club or Kirkistown Primary School, then walk to Rubane Road for the circuit entrance.
- Stops near the circuit: Timetables list Golf Club and Kirkistown Primary School among the timing points, serving the immediate area around Rubane Road.
- Service notes: Frequencies vary by day and time. Always check the latest 9 - 10 timetable before travel.
There is no direct train. If arriving by rail into Belfast, transfer to Translink buses for Newtownards and the Ards Peninsula.
Driving - simple via Newtownards and Kircubbin
- From Belfast: Head to Newtownards then follow signs along the A20 toward Kircubbin - Portaferry. In Kircubbin, turn for Rubane Road and follow signs to the circuit entrance.
- Wayfinding: The site is signed locally as Kirkistown Racing Circuit, 130 Rubane Road, BT22 1AU.
Parking - free, stewarded on event days
- General parking: Free of charge in on site car parks. Obey restricted area signs and marshal direction.
- Overflow - traffic: On busy meetings, expect managed flows on approach roads and stewarded walking routes to admissions.
Stays - local B&Bs and an on site property
- Local options: The circuit lists B&Bs in the area and one property to rent at the track. Contact the office for availability.
- On site house: The circuit offers a rentable property accessed from within the venue on selected dates.
Taxis and set downs
- Set destination: Kirkistown Racing Circuit, 130 Rubane Road, Kircubbin BT22 1AU. Staff direct drop off - pick up to active gates on event days.
- From Newtownards Bus Station: If you prefer, take a taxi for the final stretch down the peninsula to the circuit.
Walking from bus stops - car parks
- From bus stops: The Kirkistown, Golf Club and Kirkistown Primary School stops are a short walk to Rubane Road. Follow event signage to admissions.
- From on site parking: Expect 5 - 15 minute stewarded walks to popular viewing points depending on your P zone.
About the venue - quick context
- Flat airfield circuit 2.43 km - clockwise: Northern Ireland’s busiest permanent road course, operated by the 500 Motor Racing Club of Ireland since the 1950s.
- Visitor listing: Regional tourism pages confirm the address and location in Kircubbin on the Ards Peninsula.
Quick guide - what is nearest
- Drivers: Belfast → Newtownards → Kircubbin then Rubane Road to the gate.
- Bus users: Translink 9 - 10 to Kirkistown, Golf Club or Primary School stops, then walk.
- Parking: on site and free for spectators unless your event states otherwise.
- Staying over: local B&Bs plus an on site rental property via the circuit office.
Nearby Activities
Things to do around Kirkistown Circuit - Ards Peninsula - County Down (Northern Ireland)
Whether you are here for Irish club racing, Formula Ford - saloons - sports cars, superkarts, time attack, sprints, test days or a trackday, this friendly ex airfield circuit sits between beaches and Strangford Lough with gardens, aquariums, castles and coastal walks to fill your non race time.
Family friendly highlights near the circuit
- Exploris Aquarium - Portaferry: Seals, tropical tanks and touch pools in a compact, modern space. Perfect on breezy or showery days.
- Portaferry - Strangford Ferry: Short scenic crossing with castle views. Kids love it and you can grab an ice cream on either side.
- Mount Stewart - National Trust: World class gardens, lakeside walks and a good café only 20 - 25 minutes away.
- WWT Castle Espie - Comber: Wetland hides, woodland play and hands on nature zones around Strangford Lough.
- Pickie Funpark - Bangor: Pedalos, miniature train and a beachfront playground for a gentle half day.
- Ulster Folk Museum - Cultra: Open air historic village with indoor galleries - easy with buggies.
Popular family venues use dated tickets on weekends and school holidays. Book a morning slot if you plan to return for afternoon sessions at the circuit.
Culture hits and rainy day winners
- Titanic Belfast - Belfast: Landmark galleries telling the shipyard story, right beside the restored slipways.
- Downpatrick - Saint Patrick Centre: Pair with Down Cathedral and the Mound of Down for a compact heritage loop.
- Castle Ward - Strangford: Mansion, walled garden and loughside trails. Some Game of Thrones filming sites sit on the estate.
- Scrabo Tower - Newtownards: Short hill path to a volcanic plug and big views. Museum rooms open on selected days.
- North Down Museum - Bangor: Bite sized local history with a café and coastal promenade outside.
Eat and drink like a local
- Seafood on the peninsula: Portaferry and Strangford pubs serve chowder, mussels and day boat fish. Try a wharf side fish and chips for a quick win with kids.
- Bakery - deli stops: Newtownards and Kircubbin have solid bakeries for sausage rolls, traybakes and picnic supplies for the banks.
- County Down staples: Ulster fry for breakfast, Irish stew on cooler days and soda farls with butter after the chequered flag.
- Coffee with a view: Seafront cafés at Ballywalter, Cloughey and Ballyhalbert are ideal between sessions.
- Race week tip: Book Friday - Saturday tables in Portaferry, Strangford and Mount Stewart area eateries when a headline meeting is on.
Active outdoors between sessions
- Beaches close by: Cloughey, Ballywalter and Kearney village offer big skies, shell hunting and flat promenade strolls.
- Strangford Lough paddles: Guided kayak or SUP tours launch from Strangford or Portaferry on calm mornings.
- Nugent's Wood - Portaferry: Short bluebell woods loop with lough views - easy for small legs.
- Castlewellan Forest Park: Lake path, maze and bike hire if you want a larger green escape.
- Murlough National Nature Reserve - Newcastle: Boardwalks through dunes with Mourne Mountains backdrops.
Easy day trips if you are extending your stay
- Belfast - 45 to 70 minutes. Titanic Belfast, Cathedral Quarter street art and the Ulster Museum - a strong indoor day.
- Strangford - Portaferry loop - 20 to 35 minutes. Ferry ride, Castle Ward trails and Exploris Aquarium combo.
- Mount Stewart - Greyabbey - 20 to 30 minutes. Gardens plus antique shops and abbey ruins in the next village.
- Bangor - Cultra - 35 to 55 minutes. Pickie Funpark, coastal path and the Ulster Folk Museum.
- Mourne Mountains - Newcastle - 60 to 80 minutes. Seafront walks, forest parks and easy viewpoints.
Times are approximate and rise on headline weekends. National Trust houses, museums and aquariums often require timed tickets or have last entry cutoffs.
When to go and what to expect
- Peak motorsport - Spring through early autumn carries most race meetings, superkarts and time attack, with popular open trackdays sprinkled across the calendar. Local inns and seafront B&Bs fill Thursday - Sunday.
- Weather - Maritime and changeable. Expect bright spells, brisk sea breezes and quick showers. Pack layers, a light rain shell, waterproof footwear for dewy banks and sunscreen for clear breaks.
Practical notes during race weeks
- On site operations: Public experiences and karting sessions run on select non event days and may pause on big weekends - check the weekly schedule.
- Ground and shade: Exposed grass banks and long walks between viewing points. A compact seat pad or folding chair and refillable bottles help on warm days.
- Coastal add ons: Tides and wind can affect beach comfort and watersports availability. Morning is usually calmer.
- Family packing list: Ear protection for children, sun protection, rain layers, spare socks for wet grass and a warm layer for sunset ferry rides.
Opening hours, seasonal programs, ferry operations and event week schedules can change - check official circuit and attraction sites for your exact dates.
