Trip back in time as steam train runs from Lisburn to Bangor

The train will depart at 2.25 from Lisburn Station with a return departure from Bangor at 5.40.

It is hoped that by offering a steam train - a unique and enjoyable means of travel - passengers, especially families, will be able to enjoy a few hours by the sea, without the hassle of traffic jams and car parking.

To add to the excitement for children and adults they will be able get close to the steam engine and talk to the driver and fireman as well as enjoying a relaxing journey through the North Down countryside to Bangor.

RPSI Operations Officer Mervyn Darragh said: “We are pleased to offer this car-free means for passengers to travel to Bangor on a summer Saturday. The steam train works in perfectly, offering families time in Bangor for a walk, some shopping or even to sample some model steam trains at the First Bangor Model Railway Society exhibition.”

RPSI Vice-Chairman John Lockett said: “We always enjoy helping the public and especially children to get closer to the industrial heritage we maintain. A steam train just oozes atmosphere and we would especially appreciate the public sending us drawings, notes or poems about their day out on the steam train for posting on our website.”

The RPSI has seen unprecedented demand for its steam trains this year, with one operating for the public somewhere in Northern Ireland on nearly every weekend this summer at Whitehead.

Tickets (Adult £12, Child £10) and are available in person, or by phone or on-line only from Belfast Welcome Centre, 47 Donegall Place, Belfast, BT1 5AD or ring 9024 6609. You can log onto the website www.steamtrainsireland.com. Advance tickets purchase is essential.

Any revenue left after paying for NIR crews, insurance etc is ploughed back into the expensive task of restoring and overhauling the magnificent steam locomotives and carriages. The locomotive at the head of the ‘Bangor Belle’ train requires extensive overhaul every 6-8 years at a cost often upwards of £100k.