All aboard the free train!

The special ‘Try the Train’ event comes ahead of the start of scheduled train services that will commence the following day (March 24).

The free trains will include on-board entertainment with face-painting, balloon modelling and glitter tattooists for children.

Translink’s Lynda Shannon says it’s a great opportunity to experience the scenic journey and spend time exploring either Coleraine or Derry before returning home by train.

“We want to let people ‘Try the Train’ for free ahead of the start of the new North West rail timetable. It is also a great way to thank our customers for their patience while we completed the major engineering works.

“This journey features some spectacular scenery that can all be enjoyed from the comfort of our modern trains making it a very relaxing way to travel.

Our special event also coincides with the Castlerock Railfest featuring an exciting programme of activities so there really will be plenty of fun and entertainment for the whole family.

“We expect lots of interest and would encourage anyone interested in reserving seats to book them as early as possible,” said Lynda.

The train wil depart from Coleraine to Derry~Londonderry at 9.45am (return journey 3pm).

The service will stop at Castlerock and Bellarena. Seats must be reserved in advance online at www.translink.co.uk/trythetrain or by calling Translink’s contact centre on 90 66 66 30.

Bookings close at 12noon on March 21.

Translink has also produced exclusive commemorative train tickets that will be presented to the first 500 passengers travelling on timetabled services between Derry~Londonderry and Coleraine on Sunday, March 24 - the first train departure from Londonderry is 9.42am or from Coleraine at 10.52am.