Railway buffs will relish this homage to the great era of the steam and diesel train.

Yep, there's nothing quite so evocative as a trip on a steam train on a glorious sunny afternoon.

Which is why we applaud those local railway enthusiasts who have laid over two miles of track along the Belfast and Co. Down Railway trackbed - abandoned more than 50 years ago - to create Ireland’s only full-sized heritage railway.

Steam locomotives from the 1920s and 30s, or diesels from the 60s, take passengers in 50 to 100 year old carriages from Downpatrick town centre past rebuilt railway buildings and into the Co. Down countryside.

The track crosses the River Quoile and heads toward the peaceful remains of the 12th Century monastery at Inch Abbey.

Visitors can ride the short journey from Downpatrick to Inch Abbey on special days including Easter and St. Patrick's Day Shamrock Specials.

Do away with town centre parking on parade day by following the brown road signs for Inch Abbey, just outside Downpatick, and ride the wonderfully atmospheric steam train straight to the carnival.

Meanwhile, visitors can head to the Museum - beside the large glass St. Patrick Centre - and admire the workmanship of these lovingly preserved carriages and locomotives.

And, if all that nostalgia has you hooked, why not book a day's footplate experience and have a go at driving your very own steam engine? You can also hire a steam or diesel train, or buffet carriage at the station, for a party with a difference.

Further info:

• Trains run every Sat & Sun, 16 June to 16 Sept, from 2-5pm.
• Tickets cost £5 adults, £4 children/senior citizens, £17 family and U-3 free and  last all day with unlimited trips.
• There are also guided tours of the locomotive, carriage and wagon collections every operating day and walking tours every Wed & Sat from 11am – 2pm until mid-Dec.

Downpatrick & Co. Down Railway comments Add Yours

• James - Inverness 05 November 2008
  Absolutely excellent place - well worth seeing.