This eco-friendly itinerary allows you to explore more of Northern Ireland, whilst embracing greener ways to get around. Discover the convenience of public transport and the ease with which you can explore some of our most significant coastal towns. In this itinerary, we're exploring Whitehead's picturesque seafront on foot, before delving into the rich history of the town of Carrickfergus. Look forward to a leisurely day filled with stunning scenery and cultural discoveries, underpinned by sustainable travel.
A morning well-spent in Whitehead
Leave the car at home and jump on public transport, starting your day with a leisurely train journey from Belfast Lanyon Station, departing every 30-60 minutes, depending on the time of day. We took the 9.25am train, and arrived in Whitehead at 10.01am, with lots of time to immerse ourselves in the charming coastal atmosphere of this seaside town.
A short five-minute stroll takes you to Shores Whitehead, a welcoming coffee shop on Marine Parade, which is right on the seafront. It's a modern cafe, with a great menu featuring tea and coffees, toasties and some incredible looking sweet treats. Enjoy a delicious coffee or breakfast while soaking up the sea views, which were calm on the sunny morning that we were visiting. Afterward, head outdoors to admire the famous colourful houses all in a row, and then embark on a refreshing walk towards the iconic Whitehead lighthouse, capturing picturesque moments along the way including the Whiteharbour marina.
Then, turn on your heel and walk back to the heart of Whitehead to explore Whitehead Railway Museum. Open Thursday to Saturday from 10am to 2.30pm, this fascinating attraction offers a glimpse into the region's railway heritage (adult £7, child £5). Bring along your headphones to enjoy the audio tour, which takes you through the five galleries of historic steamtrains and vehicles.
Onward to Carrickfergus
Having dipped you toe into the local heritage, it's time to dander back to the train station and head for Carrickfergus, home to Carrickfergus Castle, one of the best preserved medieval structures in Ireland and the only preserved castle of its age open to the public. We boarded the 12.45pm train to Carrickfergus, arriving just nine minutes later. The speed of this journey means that before you know it, you're off discovering the town's rich history and vibrant atmosphere. Indulge in a delicious lunch at Luna, a popular local eatery, before exploring the nearby Carrickfergus Castle.
This imposing fortress, dating back to the 12th century, is a must-see for history buffs and casual visitors alike. Open Tuesday to Sunday from 9.30am to 5pm, the castle offers guided tours and captivating exhibits (adult £6, child £4). Tickets can be purchased on arrival at the Visitor Information Centre located inside the entrance, there's no need to pre-book. Make your way around the site at your own pace, taking advantage of the opportunity to climb to the top of the keep, walk the walls and admire the views over Belfast Lough between the crenels.
When you've seen all there is to see within the Castle, make your way back to Carrickfergus station, with an optional detour to the War Memorial or Carrickfergus Museum, both of which offer more context to everything you've seen and experienced so far, forming a deeper understanding of the town's heritage. Then head on to the station for the next train back to Belfast, which for us meant choosing between the 4.21pm or 4.51pm train to Belfast Lanyon Station, concluding a delightful day trip filled with history, culture, and coastal charm.
If you're interested in seeing more of Northern Ireland through sustainable travel options, there's an increasing level of options available. Look out for more Car Free itineraries joining this series soon, and dont forget to share your green getaways with us on social media via #MyGiantAdventure.
Ticketing Information
If you're making multiple stops on the train it is necessary to purchase an 'iLink' ticket, which for Belfast to Whitehead is £16 for an adult or £8.50 for a child.
Alternatively, if you're only visiting one of the destinations from this blog, either Whitehead or Carrickfergus and not both, train tickets are priced at £13.50 per adult and £6.75 per child, if travelling before 9.30am. (£10.10 per adult after 9.30am).
Under 5s travel free on public transport.
Or take advantage of unlimited day travel on all translink services throughout Northern Ireland for up to 2 adults and 4 children via Family Tickets (translink.co.uk). Children under 5 are counted as part of the ticket. Available to purchase at stations, not online. Time restrictions apply (excluding 1st July - 31st August).
Whitehead is a Victorian seaside town five miles north of Carrickfergus with commanding views across the mouth of Belfast Lough and the Irish Sea.
The new Whitehead Railway Museum will take visitors on a journey through time, see our large stock fully restored heritage Irish railway steam and diesel locomotives, vintage carriages coupled with state of the art interactive touch displays.
For more than 800 years, Carrickfergus Castle has been an imposing monument on the Northern Irish landscape whether approached by land, sea or air. The castle now houses historical displays as well as cannons from the 17th to the 19th centuries.
Local museum interpreting the long and distinguished history of the town and surrounding area, with artefacts of treasure excavated in Carrickfergus. There are multi-media and audio-visual presentations.
