This family friendly travel itinerary is ideal for a family travelling on a Saturday from Belfast to Bangor,a picturesque coastal town located just a short distance from the capital. Remember to check train times and activity/restaurant opening days and times before you start your journey.
Public transport offers a convenient and eco-friendly way to travel, allowing you to sit back, relax, and take in the stunning scenery without the hassle of driving or parking. It also provides a unique opportunity to interact with locals and gain a deeper insight into the culture and lifestyle of Northern Ireland.
Start your journey in Belfast
Our adventure begins in Belfast, a vibrant city known for its rich history and culture. We'll start our journey by embarking on a public transport option, the train from Lanyon Place which offers frequent and reliable services between Belfast and Bangor.
We arrived at Lanyon Place train station a few minutes ahead of our train departure time of 09:42 meaning we could purchase our Family & Friends tickets for only £24 for unlimited day travel. This ticket permits up to 2 adults and 4 children and can only be bought in the station, not online.
Top Tip: Sit on the left hand side of the train for the best views!
A tour around the Ulster Transport Museum
The train stops at Cultra at 09:57 and this was our stop to disembark for our visit to the Ulster Transport Museum (Open 10:00-17:00, closed Mondays). When you get off the train at Cultra train staion, take the 5-minute walk over the bridge for a straight route to the museum. The Midlands Tearoom (located in A Galleries) is open every Saturday (only), and is a great place to stop for a snack, but if you're visiting during the week, pack a picnic. It can take up to 2.5 hours to see everything as there are lots of exhibits including majestic steam locomotives and the famous Back to the Future DeLorean.
After you've seen all there is to see at the Ulster Transport Museum, walk the 5-minute journey back to the train station to get on the 12:47 train from Cultra to Bangor.
Spend the afternoon in Bangor
We arrived in Bangor station at 13:03, and were greeted by the town's charming coastal views, tranquil marina, and bustling town centre to explore the picturesque seafront promenade. For the perfect place to get a bite to eat and a coffee from their all-day brunch menu, try Boardwalk Social (Open 9:00-17:00, 7 days) which is an 8-minute walk from the train station and situated right opposite the marina.
After lunch you have a choice of activities for the kids, depending on their ages.
For the younger kids, have a walk along the marina to Pickie Park (Open 10:00-19:00, 7 days), a 10-minute walk from Boardwalk. Pay for tokens upon arrival (£6-30). The Pedalo Swans are a popular attraction (6 tokens for 4 people). Others include pickie golf and chair planes. Enjoy free access to the play park which is a great place to bring the kids. You can easily spend 1-2 hours depending on how much you do!
For the older kids, North Down Museum is worth a visit (open Tues-Sat 10:00-16:00) and is a 17-minute walk from Boardwalk Social. The museum is packed with information, telling the history of the Bangor area from the Bronze Age to the present day. With free entry to all facilities, North Down Museum has some cool activities for younger kids like photo packs and sensory trails.
Nearby is the impressive Bangor Castle Walled Garden (open 10:00-18:00, Sep-Oct). Set in the grounds of Bangor Castle they offer a delightful blend of formal and informal gardens. Visitors can stroll through colorful flower beds, tranquil pathways, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of this well-maintained Victorian garden. There is no admission charge and facilities include a toilet and cafe on-site.
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After your day in Bangor, head back to the train station for the return train to Belfast, leaving the station at 16:20 as you enjoy the impressive journey and Northern Ireland's delightful scenery reflecting on your trip to Bangor and your day spent making wonderful memories.
Our journey from Belfast to Bangor via public transport has allowed us to experience the beauty and charm of Northern Ireland while enjoying the convenience and sustainability of public transportation. Whether you're a visitor or a local resident, exploring Northern Ireland through public transport offers a unique and enriching travel experience.
Stay tuned for more adventures as we continue to discover the hidden gems of Northern Ireland through sustainable and accessible travel options.
Celebrate the history of invention and innovation through engineering, design, and technology at the Ulster Transport Museum. Check out the famous DeLorean, a Ferguson tractor and the motorbikes of some of Northern Ireland's biggest road racing legends!
Bangor Marina is located right in the heart of Bangor city centre close to all major road, rail and air transport networks. The Marina lies at the mouth of Belfast Lough offering exceptional access to world class yacht racing waters.
Enjoy a fun day out at Pickie Fun Park. Try out the 18-hole mini-golf course, giant pedal swans, Pickie Puffer train, children's play area, children's electric car track and more.
Visit North Down Museum to explore the fascinating saga of the North Down area from the Bronze Age to the present day. The Museum takes you on a journey through Early Christian heritage and the Vikings to Scottish Settlers and the Victorians.
It is the perfect place to relax and enjoy the peace and quiet. Varieties of flowers, plants, fruit and vegetables mix with sculptures and a unique fountain with a tongue twister! We are thrilled that the Walled Garden is now open all year round (except on particular holidays). Please see opening hours.
