Relive the golden age of rail travel with an evocative steam train journey through the glorious Co. Down countryside. Local railway enthusiasts have laid over two miles of track along the abandoned Belfast and Co. Down Railway trackbed to create Ireland’s only full-sized heritage railway.

Steam locomotives from the 1920s and 30s, and diesels from the 60s, pull 50 to 100-year-old carriages from Downpatrick town centre across the River Quoile towards the 12th century remains of Inch Abbey.

Back at base, the Carriage Gallery, Ireland’s only dedicated carriage museum, tells the story of Northern Ireland's railways from the 19th century to today. Historic carriages, artefacts and artwork sit alongside audio-visuals explaining the history and heritage of this definitive railway era.

And, if all that nostalgia has you hooked, you can book a day's footplate experience and have a go at driving your very own steam engine. Or hire a steam or diesel train, or buffet carriage at the station, for a party with a difference.

Hop on-board at their town centre station beside Downpatrick's gleaming St. Patrick’s Centre. For more details on all trips, tel. (+44) (0)28 4461 5779 or visit www.downrail.co.uk.