Routes in Northern Ireland
There are over 500 miles of national routes and some regional routes open in NI. These signed routes link most major towns in Northern Ireland and all of these are accessible by either NIRailways or Goldliner Express coaches. Where possible the cycle routes link to public transport termini to facilitate long distance, car-free travel. Sustrans ask that you travel to the National Cycles Network by public transport as increasing numbers of cars threaten the beauty of the countryside and the safety of the routes.
Some suggested cycle routes using public transport…
Kingfisher Cycle Trail
The Kingfisher Cycle Trail (named after the bird long associated with the lakes in the area) at approximately 230 miles was the first long distance cycle trail in Ireland. It is fully signed and runs through the counties of Fermanagh, Leitrim, Cavan, Donegal and Monaghan.
Public Transport
Ulsterbus express bus services run up to ten times a day from Belfast Europa Buscentre to Enniskillen. Ulsterbus also operates a service up to four times a day from the Europa Buscentre to Clones. In addition to the above cycling suggestions why not hop on one of the Ulsterbus Summer 'Rambler' services; the Sperrin, Mourne, Gortin, Causeway and Lecale Ramblers are an ideal way to explore Northern Ireland on foot! For more information on rail services call Translink on 028 90 66 66 30 or click on our ‘journey planner’.
Newry Canal
This cycle and walking route from the Bann Bridge in Portadown to the Town Hall in Newry is a 20 mile trip on part of Route 9 of the National Cycle Network. The route follows the towpath on the western bank of the Newry Canal.
Public Transport
The excellent cross-border 'Enterprise' rail service, which connects Belfast and Dublin calls at Portadown and Newry and can accommodate bicycles. Cyclists are encouraged to use this service to start or finish their trip. A tip would be to take the train to Newry Rail station, then free wheel down hill to start the cycle path in Newry and cycle to Portadown, thus avoiding an up hill cycle at the end of your day! Local rail services operate from Belfast to Portadown and Ulsterbus express services run to Portadown and Newry. For more information on rail services call Translink on 028 90 66 66 30 or click on our ‘journey planner’.
Whiteabbey to Lisburn
In the Greater Belfast area, the National Cycle Network (NCN) provides a high quality 30km route from Whiteabbey to Lisburn passing through the heart of Belfast. This route enables people of all ages and abilities to cycle on traffic-free paths and traffic calmed roads.
Public Transport
If you are travelling from Whiteabbey why not take the train to Lisburn and begin your cycle back along the Lagan Towpath, travelling through the heart of Belfast City. Rail services to both Lisburn and Whiteabbey stations are very frequent. For more information on rail services call Translink on 028 90 66 66 30 or click on our ‘journey planner’.
The map shows the 'bicycle friendly' Translink Network which includes all N Railway and Goldline Express coach services.
So whether you are a 'recreational' or a 'commuter' cyclist you can plan all your journeys with Translink...Suggested cycle routes