How to go to Banbridge?

Banbridge is a small town in Northern Ireland, located at 30 miles to the southwest of Belfast. The town is a very popular tourist destination, offering historic sites and attractions, a wide range of shopping opportunities, and a great selection of restaurants and pubs.

In this article, we will provide an answer to the question of “how to get to Banbridge”. We will first explain the different means of transportation that can be used to get to Banbridge, as well as list the main airports, bus and rail services available for the journey.

Travel by Car

The simplest way of getting to Banbridge from other locations is by car. While there is no direct motorway connecting Banbridge directly to major cities, the A1 main road can be taken from Belfast or Dublin. Taking this route, one can access Banbridge after a journey of roughly 1 hour if they start from Belfast and 2 hours if they start from Dublin.

Public Transport

If travelling by public transport, visitors to Banbridge can take advantage of the local buses, trains, and coaches. There are roughly 8-10 bus services per day linking Banbridge to Belfast, which take approximately 1 hour 5 minutes.

Alternatively, those travelling from further away can take advantage of NI Railways’ Translink services to get from Belfast to Banbridge in roughly 25 minutes. Longer journeys from out of town can be completed with coach services operated by several companies. NATIONAL EXPRESS & Eurolines offer service from London and Dublin with prices starting at 16 GBP for a single ticket.

Airports

Banbridge is also served by two international airports – George Best Belfast City Airport and Belfast International Airport – making it very easy to access from overseas. Direct flights are available to both Belfast City Airport and Belfast International Airport from many major European airports, as well as a handful of non-European destinations.

The closest airport to Banbridge is George Best Belfast City Airport; the airport is less than 30-minute drive away from Banbridge – about 25 miles. Belfast International Airport is located further away, approximately 40 miles; it will take around 1 hour 10 minutes to get to Banbridge from this airport.

Conclusion

In conclusion, getting to Banbridge from elsewhere in the UK or overseas is relatively straightforward. Travellers have the option to choose from private or public transport; each offering varying speeds and comfort levels. Those travelling internationally have access to Belfast City and Belfast International Airport, which offer many direct flights from different countries.

For more information about travelling to Banbridge, visit Discover Northern Ireland’s official website. Keep in mind that car hire or a rental car should be booked ahead of time in order to enjoy a stress-free trip.

An Insider’s Guide: How to Go to Banbridge

Banbridge is a town situated in County Down, Northern Ireland. It is a well-known market town, known for its rich history, natural beauty, and friendly locals. The town is perfect for anyone looking for a relaxing getaway with a mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and local gastronomy. In this insider’s guide, we’ll take a closer look at some of the best things to do and places to visit in Banbridge.

Local Attractions

There are plenty of notable attractions in Banbridge that every visitor should plan on adding to their itinerary. The city’s main attraction is the Banbridge Old Town Hall, which was built in 1906 and is home to the local heritage center, showcasing the town’s rich history.

Gamers will find the amazing “Resurgam” sculpture of a Phoenix rising from the ashes to be a popular stop in Banbridge, while history buffs must visit the fascinating Loughbrickland Courthouse, built-in 1841, and has now been repurposed into a museum.

If you’re into outdoor activities, head straight to the Scarva Visitor Centre, located just 10 minutes from Banbridge by car. There you can access a range of cycling and walking routes, with stunning views of the Banbridge countryside. The perfect place for active travelers and outdoor enthusiasts.

Local Dining Spots

Trying local cuisine is a key part of any trip, and Banbridge has an excellent range of high-quality restaurants and cafes. Cinnamon Restaurant serves exceptional Indian dishes and with a lovely atmosphere, or try innovative mixes at The Tannery, a gastropub that showcases some of the finest Northern Irish craft beers. If you’re looking for something sweet, head to Jay’s Gelato & Desserts, they offer excellent ice creams and waffles.

Cultural Experiences

Banbridge exudes the charm and character of times gone by. Take a guided tour of Ballydown Presbyterian Church to learn more about the town’s cultural and religious history, or for the art enthusiasts, Illyria Pottery is definitely worth a visit, where unique ceramics handmade by master craftsmen are on display.

For a unique cultural experience, don’t miss out on the annual Banbridge Buskfest, an international busking festival where over 50 artists perform on the streets of the town. It’s a day-long musical fiesta held in mid-June.

Local History

Banbridge has a rich and interesting history that you can explore throughout the town. Start with Northern Ireland’s first ever railway station located on Banbridge’s present-day Downshire Road, and then head to Solitude Park, a beautiful parkland that features historic memorials of the main historical figures who shaped Northern Ireland.

Another historic point to visit is the ‘Gaston Green’ Statue, a monument near the town center erected to commemorate the Irish song-writer and poet, Sir Victor Wallace Dunstan Gaston.

Off the Beaten Path Suggestions

For off the beaten path experiences, travel a bit out of town to discover the beautiful Minnowburn day park, located on the southern edge of Belfast. Here you can walk amidst nature and scenic meadows with the children or take a quiet stroll with your loved one.

Take a guided tour to Tollymore Forest Park, a popular filming location for several movies, and explore this wonderland of picnic areas, rivers, and meandering paths. The park is easy to navigate and has a variety of walking and cycling paths suitable for all ages.

Banbridge’s most hidden gem isn’t for everyone, but if you’re a fan of the paranormal, St. Patrick Graveyard is worth a visit. Located at the end of a forest path, the cemetery is said to be haunted by a young girl believed to have drowned in a nearby river.

In conclusion, these are just some of the many reasons to visit Banbridge. With its natural beauty, rich history, and friendly locals, Banbridge should be on every traveler’s bucket-list. So, pack your bags and visit this charming town for your next vacation!