Michael Palin described the train journey between Londonderry and Coleraine as “one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world”...
So why not sit back, relax and enjoy the views! Whether you start your day in Derry or Coleraine, there’s lots to do at each destination. Taking the train means you’ll travel in comfort, avoid the hassle of traffic and parking and get plenty of time to view the scenery. Take the bus from Coleraine to visit the fantastic attractions and small towns and villages of The Causeway Coast. History, heritage, stunning scenery as well as plenty of great restaurants, pubs and shops await you for a fun-filled day-trip.
Your journey begins in Derry~Londonderry - the historic 6th Century city with “a great riverside setting, fascinating historical sights and a determined air of optimism that has made it the powerhouse of the North’s Cultural revival” (Lonely Planet 2010). Your train journey will follow the River Foyle as you leave Derry and head into the lush green countryside.
Soon you will arrive at the golden sands of Benone Strand. The railway track runs alongside, so you have spectacular views of one of the most unspoilt beaches in Ireland. You’ll pass the maritime cliffs at Downhill and the impressive Binevenagh Mountain. The sand dunes and the cliffs are home to a wide range of wildlife, including the peregrine falcon.
Your next stop is the small John Lanyon designed station of Castlerock - an ideal stopping place for a beach picnic or exploration of the village and nearby National Trust properties. Your journey will then take you past the green manicured grass of peaceful Castlerock Golf Course.
Your 45 minute “great railway journey” brings you alongside the River Bann as it sweeps into Coleraine. Steeped in history (Mountsandel is regarded as being the earliest known settlement of man in Ireland), charm and character, the town offers a mix of old and new. There is first class shopping and plenty to see and do.
Stop a while in Coleraine or hop on the bus travelling on to The Giant’s Causeway or one of the many pretty coastal towns and villages from Portstewart to Ballycastle.
The Causeway Coast is one of the most scenic regions in the UK and is home to some of Northern Ireland’s best known attractions including Bushmills Distillery, Dunluce Castle, Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge and, of course, The Giant’s Causeway.
The Causeway is a World Heritage Site and Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Explore the basalt stone columns left by volcanic eruptions 60 million years ago and search for distinctive stone formations fancifully named the Camel, Harp and Organ.
Nearby coastal towns include Portrush and Portstewart with award winning beaches and a host of restaurants, pubs, ice-cream parlours, craft and gift shops.