In this paper we present the results from numerical calculations, based upon the Navier–Stokes equations at relatively high Reynolds number, of the formation of a vortex ring when fluid is ejected from a circular tube. Our results are compared with the experiments of Didden (1979), and the inviscid flow calculations of Nitsche & Krasny (1994). Reasonable agreement is achieved except for the rate of shedding of circulation during the initial stages of ring formation. The theoretically predicted rate of shedding is substantially higher than that predicted by Didden. By contrast the inviscid theory predicts an anomalously high rate of initial shedding. We offer explanations for both of these apparent discrepancies.