Getting to County Down

County Down combines stunning coastline, majestic mountains and peaceful countryside all within easy reach of Belfast. From the Mourne Mountains and Strangford Lough to the historic town of Downpatrick, getting here is simple, and the journey is filled with scenery worth slowing down for. 

By Air 

With Belfast on its doorstep, County Down is one of the easiest parts of Northern Ireland to reach by air. 

Belfast City Airport (BHD) is just 30–40 minutes from Bangor, Downpatrick or Newcastle by car. 

Belfast International Airport (BFS) is around 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes away depending on your destination in Down. 

Both airports offer car hire, taxis and onward coach connections across the county, making it easy to arrive and explore. 

By Bus / Coach 

Translink provides regular Ulsterbus and Goldline services linking Belfast with towns and villages across County Down, including Bangor, Newcastle, Downpatrick, Banbridge and Newry. 

From Belfast, you can reach Downpatrick or Newcastle in around 1 hour by bus. 

From Dublin, cross-border coach services operate via Bus Éireann and Expressway, connecting through Newry with onward local services to Down. 

Buses run frequently from Belfast’s Grand Central Station and Laganside Station, offering affordable and direct travel. 

By Car 

County Down is easy to reach and rewarding to explore by road. 

From Belfast – 45 minutes to Newcastle via the A24; 40 minutes to Downpatrick via the A7. 

From Dublin – around 2 hours 30 minutes via the M1/A1. 

From Derry~Londonderry – around 2 hours 45 minutes via the A6/M1. 

The A24 and A7 routes provide scenic drives through forest parks, rolling farmland and the foothills of the Mournes. Car hire is available in Belfast and nearby airports, with EV charging points in many towns and visitor car parks. 

Getting Around 

County Down is ideal for exploring at your own pace. 

A car gives you the freedom to visit mountain trails, lakeside walks and coastal villages, while local bus services connect key destinations such as Newcastle, Downpatrick, Bangor and Newry. 

For a slower pace, discover the Mourne Mountains or explore by bike or on foot with endless opportunities for hiking, photography and fresh air. 

Plan Your Trip 

Now that you know how to get here, it’s time to plan your stay. Discover coastal charm, mountain adventures and tranquil getaways in County Down.

Start your trip to County Down by exploring how to get there with our travel planner map below.