Larne, Northern Ireland

Larne Roundabout Jubilee Crown

This giant sculpture is both loved and disliked by the local community.

This overbearing structure sits in the middle of one of Larne’s busiest roundabouts. It has been the source of pride for some community members—and an eyesore to others.

The 26-foot tall (8 meters) steel structure was built by local apprentice steelworkers in 2012. It was designed to celebrate the diamond jubilee of Queen Elizabeth II of Britain. It’s decorated in colorful gems and covered in gold paint.

Throughout the spring and summer, bountiful flower displays color the roundabout in shades of red, white, blue, and other pastel hues. The public art piece has played an important role in helping reinvigorate the town center, as people travel from across the globe to view the giant crown.

However, as magnificent as many find this display, not all parts of the community are in love with the giant crown. Some have labeled it cheap and tacky, even describing it as a giant advertisement for Burger King. Despite these differentiating opinions, the roundabout has generated a ton of publicity for the town. In November 2015, the sculpture was granted approval to become a permanent feature.

Know Before You Go

The sculpture is right next to the town center in Larne and is right out the front door of Larne's railway station. It's also only a short five-minute walk from the bus station.