I was on the train and it was a shambles. "All that is lacking is the will from Translink to ensure that this can happen. That is one stop, in isolation, and this effect should not be extrapolated over the whole journey. Translink announced the route last week, with adult return tickets costing 32.50, but rail campaign group Into the West has launched a petition for the route to begin and end in Derry itself. If you prefer to travel at night, you will usually find the first departure from Derry to Belfast leaving at . To travel from Derry to Belfast by train, please read the following information. By proceeding, you accept the use of cookies in accordance with our. There is also the Yardbird upstairs for great roast chicken. Includes Brexit, the Irish border, passports, Good Friday Agreement. Well never share you email address. The rail campaigners said it was unclear on what basis Translink made the decision to re-route trains, and how far in-advance they choose to do so. This section of railway is now used solely for driver training or other operational requirements e.g. /index.php [L] Thanks for sharing. "The quickest way is M6-M4-M50-M1 total driving time 3hrs 45mins but its all motorway and has around 10euro . Yet despite that, passenger numbers from the city continue to grow. Northern Ireland may be small in size but its a giant among destinations in the United Kingdom for natural beauty, historic sights, and delicious food and drinks. BBC News - Lobbying call to secure funds for Belfast to Derry rail route Calls for it to be safeguarded. The main (only) line from Belfast to Derry doesn't reach the coast until Castlerock (west of Portrush)- it takes about 2 hours 10 minutes. The group fears therefore fears, if it is a sunny day in July or August, Translink will decide at short notice to divert some Belfast rail services to and from Portush instead of Derry, reducing Northern Irelands second city to what it described as "the status of an inconvenient after-thought. Born in England, Sarah developed her wanderlust at a young age as she traveled around Europe with her parents. Be warned that it is actually free to visit the Giants Causeway so the only way they can charge you is for parking. Plus, Lanyon Place Station conveniently provides railway connection to other three major railway hubs, serving the city center of amazing Belfast. If you like the idea of a romantic getaway that makes you feel like youve stepped back in time and emerged as royalty (without the huge price tag) then you must take a look at Irelands Blue Book. Congratulations to the authors. Glenarm Castle is one of Northern Irelands most beautiful estates and has been the family home of the McDonnells for 400 years. What often compounds the issue is that passengers are invariably left to wait for the next train approximately one hour later.. The best price for this journey is . Kindly add us to your ad blocker whitelist. learn more about the Derry~Londonderry name in this article. Where does the Londonderry to Belfast train arrive? Pauline McGill was sentenced after being convicted of fraud by abuse of position. The 221-foot tall spire can be seen from all over the city and the stone walls contain some fascinating artifacts including the original keys to the walled city. We always start our search on Hotels Combined as this site shows pricing from all of the other booking sites giving you a good comparison. He tweeted I was on the train and it was a shambles. "There are no insurmountable technical reasons why the Special train for Derry supporters can't start in Derry cityand stop at Coleraine on its way through to Dublin- even within the usual Saturday schedule. The Derry/Londonderry to Belfast train route was linked up in 1852, bridging the final connection between Coleraine and Derry/Londonderry that broadly encompasses the same route of the train track today in 2022. The Derry line will be closed between Yorkgate and Great Victoria Street stations in Belfast on Sunday, January 15. Get the latest news, product updates, and exclusive promotions directly in your inbox, Sign in to Virail to get exclusive travel deals, By signing up, you agree to our terms and conditions, You can find more information in our Imprint. We have tried to raise this issue directly with Translink management ourselves, but have not received a response. For the latest travel status, please check the official page for United Kingdom. We've seen conflicting advice. Following the signalling upgrade in 2016, the line north of Coleraine is no longer controlled by electric token, instead being centralised in the Coleraine signal box. They have many stately homes, manor houses and castles in their collection and in fact you could plan a full tour around Northern Ireland and the Republic of Ireland staying in their selected properties. Make sure to have dinner in the award-winning Cook and Gardener Restaurant. One way of avoiding this is to park in the village of Bushmills and take the shuttle service to the Causeway. We have therefore written to the Mayor and Chief Executive of Derry City and Strabane District Council to request it formally expresses its dissatisfaction to Translink and demand change, said Mr Bradley. reggieweems@comcast.net. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from Derry to Belfast. This was the view of Steve Bradley who chairs the Into the West Rail Lobby group, which has been campaigning for the upgrading of Derry's train services since 2004. The Maldron Hotel is within the city walls allowing for easy access to all the main sights of Derry and the price is very reasonable. It's like it's built to fail." The city of Belfast is divided into quarters and each section has its own unique character and flavor. This area is best explored in the evenings when the charming, rambling streets are buzzing with activity spilling out from the pubs and restaurants. Compare fares and buy your ticket. As a Qualified Bus Driver you will be earning a starting rate of 12.00 per hour and you will be employed to a full time permanent post. The rooms are clean and comfortable and the hotel is modern with an on-site restaurant and bar. Just ask in our forum and get competent answers from our rail travel experts. It is not a simple comparison of the top speeds of modern and Victorian trains. Support our mission and join our community now. If you see a side road, a village, a local pub, an overlook or anything else that calls to you, do yourself a favor and answer that call. You can get one of the nearly 10 daily departures along this route from Monday to Friday with reduced service on weekends and holidays (about five trains). On Achilll Island, view remains of a 5000 year old human settlement and deserted villages. The line is double-track on the short section it shares with the BelfastLarne line, but is composed primarily of single track from Monkstown to Derry with passing points at Templepatrick, Antrim, Magherabeg, Ballymena, Killagan, Ballymoney, Coleraine and Bellarena. A company spokesperson said they would look at requirements for the return journey as the week goes on. Easily plan your train journey with multiple stops "It makes no sense to offer a special train to Derry supporters that goes nowhere near County Derry and which stops in Lurgan, Portadown and Newry instead. Belfast - Derry~Londonderry by rail (+44) (0)28 9066 6630 more than a year ago share. When you see your results, select your chosen option and Virail will redirect you to the provider's website, where you can complete your booking. A skeleton service continued on the LisburnAntrim line until 2003, when the line and its stations were closed. Please sign this petition to tell @Translink_NI it's unacceptable that a 'special' train to get @DoireGAA supporters to Dublin this wknd starts & ends in Belfast = 30 miles frm Co.Derry, 70 miles frm Derry City & 52 miles frm Coleraine. See the list of Game of Thrones filming sites in Northern Ireland here. Rooms arent huge but theyre comfortable and have King beds. We wont go into the history and politics here but if youre interested you can learn more about the Derry~Londonderry name in this article. Amazon Disclosure: We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to amazon.com, amazon.co.uk, amazon.ca, amazon.de, amazon.fr, amazon.it and amazon.es. If you have questions about the route from Derry to Belfast, please ask in our forum. Phase 1 saw the line close for nine months to completely relay two sections (Coleraine to Castlerock; and Eglinton to Derry), extending the life of the remaining section by converting the jointed track to continuous welded rail, elimination of wet spots, and essential bridge repairs. He concluded that the experience had ruined our day in Derry". Want to know about travelling from Londonderry to Belfast? Lost over two hours of a five hour trip due to delays. This can be boarded at Great Victoria Street Bus terminal. It is up and coming on the foodie scene and there is something for every budget and taste and proprietors pride themselves on their legendary hospitality. Includes home ownership, poverty, and how takes are spent. This article may also contain affiliate links which means that by purchasing through these links we may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. Not to mention the fact that the train would service a different range of stops.". Into the West pointed out this route change only happens sporadically, and seemingly whenever Translink decides that the number of passengers looking to travel to Portrush has reached an unspecified level. On Sundays services from Great Victoria Street to Derry operate every two hours from Derry to Belfast and vice versa. Departing Friday, January 6, 2023 21:38 Londonderry 23:39 Belfast It is time for Translink to stop this clear regional bias, and genuinely work to make rail a more attractive travel option from the north-West instead, said Steve Bradley. We thank you for your support. There you find exact schedules and ticket prices for all operators in England, Scotland and Wales. The Belfast-Derry railway line (called Derry ~ Londonderry line with NI Railways [1] ) runs from Belfast to Londonderry Derry in Northern Ireland.This line consists mainly of single track from just under Mossley West station up to Londonderry Waterside station with venues in Antrim, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Coleraine and Castle. guides. Buy your train ticket online via the booking links bellow. The Rathmullan House and Bushmills Inn are just two of the gorgeous accommodations available through Irelands Blue Book. The line was. We often like to start a visit to a new to us city with a Hop-On, Hop-Off Bus Tour because it gives a great overview and helps us decide where we want to spend our time. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays; use the search form on this page to search for a specific travel date. special services to major events. It means Derry moves up four places on the previous year, overtaking key commuter stations like Antrim, Lurgan, Carrickfergus and Portrush. Boasting a unique combination of Indian and Italian food Mama Masala is a popular restaurant with a menu that is sure to please everyone. However, according to Steve Bradley, Translink has developed a habit of reversing the usual pecking order for the North-Wests rail infrastructure at extremely short notice during the Summer. While the route is largely the same, the number of stops differs widely - with many more stops available in the 1900 route. Book your tickets step by step as explained. No accommodation found at selected location for today. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. The bus stop is located opposite the terminal exit. However, please take our advice and dont look at this road trip as just a checklist of must-sees. Without a doubt, the famous and much loved Bushmills Inn is our top pick to stay in this area of Northern Ireland. Obviously, as a rule, the more stops a route has, the longer it takes for trains to complete a journey. Thank you for supporting Ireland's best local journalism! Route: Starting at Sainsburys car park on Strand Road, walk down to the Craigavon Bridge, along the river path passed the train station to the Peace Bridge and back to Sainsburys car park to finish. Take your time and pull over often to breathe in the clean Irish air and stunning vistas. You can obtain a copy of the Code, or contact the Council, at www.presscouncil.ie, Lo-call 1800 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie. In particular, I am looking for the Belfast-Castlerock 1901 route and any 'train drivers' with the forename 'Jack' or the surname, 'Jackson.' The upside of having a car means that you can linger and try to wait for a break in the groups on bus tours. To continue reading this article, please subscribe and support local journalism! Travel from Belfast (United Kingdom) to Derry (United Kingdom) by train (99km): schedule and information to the train connection. Its probably worth pointing out that Sinn Fin's Conor Murphy committed resources to upgrading the Derry line in 2012 and that the present minister (Danny Kennedy) is now walking away from that commitment. Just remember that driving in Ireland requires some adjustment if you are not used to driving on the left side and along very narrow country roads. The best way to find and compare tickets for trains, buses, carpools and planes. Tour the city in an iconic black taxi and get a fun and sometimes one-sided commentary on the Troubles. Visit the Westport House with more than 300 years of Irish history. Thank you. We work with more than 100 partners to offer you the best prices on the market. Click here to see some options for guided tours from Belfast. The decor is simple but with quirky touches throughout. Plus they had locations convenient for us. Pauline McGill was sentenced after being convicted of fraud by abuse of position. Start: 11am, Sainsbury's Car Park, Strand Road, Derry (Registration available from 10.30am). Enjoy a pint or two in a friendly Irish setting while listening to a scheduled or impromptu session of local and visiting talented musicians. Multimedia Sales Advisor required to join our team in Derry, More shootings and bombings in Derry and Strabane last year than anywhere else in North, Famous names to grace the Brandywell - from Busby and Stein to Keane and Ronaldinho, Antrim Crown Court: Man (63) from Derry sentenced for indecent assault on a male, sexual activity with a child and sexual assault, Derry Court: Woman fined for theft of goods valued at 20 from local store, Derry students take home prize at BT Young Scientist & Technology Exhibition 2023. "It will never cease to amaze me that the @Translink_NI train to Derry doesn't stop at Derry Airporteven though it passes over the end of the runway tarmac. The bus and rail operator announced last week that a 'special train' would be available for fans to use to travel to Croke Park for Derry's game against Galway on July 9. Rest Day Rates will also be offered! The earliest departure is at 19:38 in the evening, and the last departure from Londonderry is at 21:38 which arrives into Belfast at 23:39. Cars abandoned at entrance to Cornshell Fields. Prices start at 87 per night. Finally, you would spend a night or two in Derry before returning to Belfast or going south into the Republic of Ireland. Your host will meet you at the train ticket office, where you can buy the day ticket for the train (9). Another Twitter user (@oneill_shaun) used the train to come to Derry for the Maritime Festival and had to change and wait at Coleraine. Travel from Derry (United Kingdom) to Belfast (United Kingdom) by train (99km): schedule and information to the train connection. The Titanic Belfastexhibit spans six floors and is the most popular sight in the city so be prepared to spend some time. In Europe, we often recommend Get Your Guide because they are the worlds largest online booking platform for tours and activities plus they have the best price guarantee. Reggie The train stations along the line were: Knockloughrim, Maghera, Upperlands, Kilrea, Garvagh, Aghadowey and Macfin. "Farcically, however, the organisation has decided that the train should start and end in Belfast - 30 miles from the Antrim/Derry border, 70 miles from Derry City and 52 miles from Coleraine. Others include Portstewart Strand, Downhill Beach and Castle Ward. IN PICTURES: Faces in the crowd at Croke Park, "It is absurd that Translink think Derry supporters will accept a Special train service that goes nowhere near their county.". Indeed, throughout the 1800s train stops were so ubiquitous that there were constant route changes. . You would make as many stops as you could along the way, ending in Derry for the night and seeing some of the city the next day before driving back to Belfast for the night. Trains Derry to Belfast: Times, Prices and Tickets Find the cheapest ticket for your trip By Train Today Discover By Train Tomorrow Discover By Train 2 Days Discover Derry to Belfast by train 1.4kg 6.8kg 4.9kg Use Virail to find the best way to travel from Derry to Belfast Planning to travel from Derry to Belfast? You can obtain a copy of the Code, or contact the Council, at www.presscouncil.ie, Lo-call 1800 208 080 or email: info@presscouncil.ie. How far is it from Londonderry to Belfast? Young and hip meets posh and traditional in this brick-walled, candlelit eatery that serves food on wooden boards. Bus ticket prices start . Trainline provides a very comfortable booking system for train tickets in several countries. Fire service currently in attendance at ongoing incident in Maghera school, Derry has 2nd best restaurants and takeaways in the UK new research reveals, TRAFFIC AND TRAVEL: County Derry road blocked - motorists advised to seek alternative routes, BREAKING: Car careers into Creggan Road home, THROWBACK THURSDAY: Out and About in Derry's Metro Nightclub (2008), Derry Death Notices - Tuesday, 17th January, 2023, Freezing weather causes havoc across city, Throwback Tuesday: Out & About @ Mary's Magherafelt (2012), Community service order for County Derry woman who stole from local business, WATCH: Motorists facing lengthy delays on A6 due to poor driving conditions, IN PICTURES: St. Joseph's Boys' School Open Day, WATCH: Home video of 'Derry Reborn' (1994), IN PICTURES: Oakgrove Integrated College Open Day, IN PICTURES: Derry man Terry Crossan celebrates 70th birthday with Pieta House fundraiser, Throwback Tuesday: Out & About @ Dan's Bar (2012), WATCH: A look back at Derry in days gone by (1968), THROWBACK THURSDAY: Out & About in Derry's Sugar Nightclub (2008), Pat and Faye Shortt come to the Waterside Theatre, Take a spooky staycation this Halloween at Pca Festival, Choosing the right mattress for the right stage of life, State of the European Union: Stronger Together, JOB ALERT: Want to join our team? Joe Thomson backs Larne to emulate Derry City's success story. Two thirds of the stops on the entire 95 mile line are therefore within 30 miles of . You may be surprised at the array of food choices found in Derry, especially for a city of its size. Here is just a taste of what you can find. CLAIM: The train between Derry/Londonderry and Belfast takes 2 hours and 20 minutes. Perched dramatically on a 120-foot cliff top above the Atlantic Ocean, the Mussenden Temple and the surrounding area of Downhill Demesne offer stunning views that are some of the most photographed in Ireland. Belfast, one of the top places to visit in Northern Ireland, has emerged from its troubled and turbulent past as a welcoming, interesting city making it both a worthy destination for tourists and a great place to live. Iconic Media Group is hiring a Digital Director, JOB VACANCY: We are hiring! Chef Ian Orr is a genius at using fresh local ingredients like Monaghan duck, Donegal seafood and Fermanagh lamb to create simple but delicious meals and tasting menus. Will Coronavirus (COVID-19) affect my travel to Belfast? It also calls on local elected representatives to liaise with Translink to agree 'as a matter of urgency'. All services run direct with no transfers required, and take on average 2h 2m. The journey is 70 miles long, meaning this service travels at the same speed as Victorian-era trains. As a young adult she spent every penny she could on experiences as opposed to possessions. Trains run hourly between Londonderry and Belfast. However, as always every word and opinion in this article is 100% our own. The schedules shown below are for the next available departures. I've written to Translink to raise these concerns and urge them to extend this service to Derry.While a bus is available from Derry, train offers a more comfortable and accessible journey for many. Guildhall Derry . Long Tower Primary School, Longtower St, Derry; Model Primary School and Nursery, Northland Road . If you dont mind staying a little outside of Belfast there are some unique eco-stays but if you prefer more traditional accommodations here are some places we either looked at ourselves or had recommended to us by fellow travelers. Four to five nights will give you time to see everything along the Coastal Causeway and in Belfast and Derry without feeling terribly rushed. Its not just history youll find in Belfast but also great food and entertainment. Using a bus from Belfast International Airport to Derry is admittedly your least convenient transfer option. Note: This stop is not on the Coastal Causeway but is a short detour inland. The company provided a range of later departures for bus and train services right across the network, St Mary's student, Kaycee Deery, received a Highly Commended Award from the judges for her project, Cost of living help available for every household. The route weaves along cliffs, through tunnels under temples, past over two runways and along the banks of Loch Foyle. The company provided a range of later departures for bus and train services right across the network, St Mary's student, Kaycee Deery, received a Highly Commended Award from the judges for her project, Subscribe or register today to discover more from DonegalLive.ie. This is what we did on our recent stay and we had a huge one-bedroom apartment for about $75 USD. This means that only passengers departing from Derry, Bellarena and Castlerock have a two-hour wait between departing services. The Broad Road, outside Limavady, is blocked. If youre in Belfast in the summer The Dirty Onion is a must for an evening of drinks and music.