Getting to Northern Ireland
With excellent fast ferry links from the UK and three airports with frequent low-cost flights from all over Europe, Northern Ireland is very easy to get to. There is also an open border with the Republic of Ireland and a fantastic rail link with Dublin.
If arriving from the Republic of Ireland by Car
There are many roads leading between Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland with most major towns and cities linked by dual carriageways. As in the Republic of Ireland cars in Northern Ireland drive on the left side of the road however drivers must be aware of the changes in road signage was you cross the border. Most notably distances and speed limits in Northern Ireland are indicated in miles not kilometres.
If arriving from the Republic of Ireland by Bus or Rail
There are many bus routes between the Republic of Ireland and Northern Ireland with one main train line linking Belfast with Dublin. Mountain Bikes are carried for free on all Translink buses, Goldline Express coaches and trains however no bikes will be carried before 09:30 and space is restricted to 2 full-sized bikes on buses and 4 full-sized bikes on trains, allocated on a first come, first served basis. Some conditions apply to this service. For more information, download the Bike It with Translink leaflet.
If arriving by Ferry
Northern Ireland has first-class ferry connections with Scotland, England and the Isle of Man.
Stena Line offer frequent sailings from Liverpool and Cairnryan direct to Belfast Port.
P&O Ferries operate up to 7 sailings per day from Cairnryan to Larne with online prices starting from just £69 single, car plus driver. There are also daily crossings from Liverpool to Dublin including an overnight sailing.
If arriving by Air
With two city airports and one international airport operating all year round it has never been easier to get to Northern Ireland by plane. There are many scheduled air services operating from nearly every major UK airport as well as a number of direct flights from major European cities to Northern Ireland. Visit discovernorthernireland.com for up to date information on flights operating in and out of Northern Ireland.
Getting Around
There are a few different options for getting around Northern Ireland below.
Mountain Bikes are carried free of charge on Translink buses, Goldline Express coaches and trains however no bikes will be carried before 09:30 and space is restricted to 2 full-sized bikes on buses and 4 full-sized bikes on trains, allocated on a first come, first served basis. Some conditions apply to this service and bikes are not permitted on Metro services. For more information, download the Bike It with Translink leaflet.
Covered bike racks are also available at many bus and rail stations across Northern Ireland as part of the “Park and Ride” scheme. For more information, download the Translink Park and Ride leaftlet.
For more information on getting around Northern Ireland contact Translink direct on:
Telephone: 028 9066 6630
Website: translink.co.uk
Textphone: 028 9038 7505 (for people who are deaf or hard of hearing)
Email: feedback@translink.co.uk
Shelbourne Vehicle Rental (proud sponsors of Orchard Cycling Club) have everything you need for your cycling break – Vans, Crew Cab Vans (6 passengers), Minibuses (up to 13 passengers) with storage space for bikes, Towbars, and roof mounted bike carriers.
Sat Nav is available to help you find those trail heads as early as possible to let the fun begin!
Why not visit our website or give a member of our Rental team a call today for further information –quote ‘Mountain Bike NI’ at time of booking and receive 15% off retail rate.
Telephone: 028 3839 6868
Email: rental@shelbournemotors.com
Website: shelbournemotors.com/rental/vans-pick-ups/crew-cab/