Discover the Causeway Coast this summer with enhanced Goldliner services and zero emissions travel

Translink has announced key enhancements for services to the Giant’s Causeway, as well as additional zero emissions vehicles operating in the borough to provide even more sustainable, convenient and affordable travel options for days out along the north coast this summer.

Translink’s ‘Days Out’ webpage is the go-to resource for ticket information and trip inspiration. Whether planning a family adventure, a day out with friends, or a solo excursion, there’s no better time to discover the scenic beauty and vibrant culture of the Causeway Coast and Glens.

Additional 221 Goldliner direct services are now operating between Belfast and the Giant’s Causeway, with three return services timetabled during the week, including stops at Bushmills. A further 12 zero emissions vehicles have also been delivered and now operating on the 402 Causeway Rambler, the 171 and 172 between Coleraine and Ballycastle, and the 140 between Coleraine, Portrush and Portstewart triangle.

Cllr Ciarán McQuillan, Mayor of Causeway Coast and Glens, commented: “These services and vehicle enhancements are a welcome boost for green tourism.

“From the breath-taking Giant’s Causeway and Bushmills to the town centre of Coleraine and the fantastic shops and attractions of all our towns and villages, there is so much to see and do right here in our own Borough this summer.

“I would encourage everyone to take advantage of these fantastic services and offers, leave the car at home, and discover the beauty, culture and experiences of the Causeway Coast and Glens with the convenience and sustainability of public transport.”

Naomi Waite, Director of Marketing at Tourism Northern Ireland, said: “This increase in sustainable public transport services is a further boost to our tourism infrastructure. It has never been easier for families to take a small step to a giant adventure and spend affordable, quality time together when holidaying at home on the Causeway Coastal Route.

“With its golden, sandy beaches, vibrant towns and quality restaurants serving locally sourced produce, the Causeway Coast is a world-class destination right on our doorstep, ideal for an epic, fun day out or an exciting short-break.”

Sam Todd, Service Delivery Manager at Translink, added: “With the introduction of this zero emission fleet combined with new zero emission mini buses introduced last year operating on local town services and at the Giants Causeway, we are delighted that the majority of our North Coast services are now emissions free. With enhanced services in place, we want to attract even more people to sustainably explore this area of outstanding beauty.

“With our great value fares, we also aim to make days out affordable and accessible for everyone. Families can take advantage of the Family and Friends ticket for just £24, offering unlimited day travel on all Translink services within Northern Ireland for up to two adults and four children

“Those planning a visit to the Giant’s Causeway can also make use of the handy Park and Ride facility in Bushmills and take advantage of the 'Green Ticket' savings available from the Bushmills Visitor Information Centre. This includes your bus ticket and visitor experience tickets and reduces adult ticket prices to £11 per adult and £5.50 per child. 

“Elsewhere across the network, individual travellers can enjoy the freedom of the Bus Rambler ticket, priced at £10 per adult, which allows unlimited day travel on all Ulsterbus, Goldliner, Metro, and Glider services within Northern Ireland after 9.15am.

“Passengers travelling within the North-West area can avail of our NW iLink card offering unlimited bus and train travel within the NW Zone for £15 or for those planning a more extensive journey, there is an iLink Travel Card offering unlimited bus and train day travel across the entire region for £19, with discounts available for children and yLink card holders.

“In addition to great fares, Translink’s park and ride facilities make traveling by bus or train even more convenient, eliminating the hassle and cost of driving and parking. By choosing public transport, communities also contributing to a greener environment, making summer outings both enjoyable and eco-friendly for everyone”, Sam concluded.

To learn more about fare offers, timetables, special routes, and fun day trip ideas, visit www.translink.co.uk/daysout.