Getting to the Trail
You can reach Northern Ireland by either plane or boat. The closest airports to the trail are Belfast International Airport, Belfast City Airport and City of Derry Airport. The closest ferry ports to the trail are in Larne and Belfast.
Airports
- Belfast International Airport: https://belfastairport.com/
- Belfast City Airport: https://www.belfastcityairport.com/
- City of Derry Airport: https://www.cityofderryairport.com/
Ports
- Belfast Harbour (Those travelling from Cairnryan or Liverpool): https://www.stenaline.co.uk/ferries-to-ireland
- Port of Larne: https://www.portoflarne.co.uk/
Getting around the Trail
Due to the remoteness of the Ulster Way, we recommend planning your transport in advance.
For those sections of trail however which involve travelling along busy roads, we recommend using a car, public transport or, where available, a shuttle service to travel between sections.
Public Transport
Translink are also the main service provider in Northern Ireland for bus and rail. You can plan your route by public transport using the Translink Website: www.translink.co.uk.
Translink also offer the following Rambler Services:
- Mourne Rambler (Seasonal)
- Causeway Coast Rambler (Seasonal) – Service Number 402
- Sperrin Rambler (not currently operating)
Taxis
Taxi companies can be found throughout the entire route. You can find many of them online although not all are listed online. For a list of list of taxis in Northern Ireland click here.
For taxi numbers not listed online, please contact the local Visitor Information Centre.
Mourne Shuttle Bus Service
This 16 seat mini bus can pick you up at your desired car park and take you out to the start point of your route so you can walk back to the car meaning you will no longer be restricted to the circular routes and can explore many of the fantastic linear ones in the area. The shuttle service runs throughout the whole year, every weekend and can be requested during the week. In the summer months of July and August the service will be available seven days a week.
Pick up and drop off points include Donard Park, Newcastle, Trassey Track Car Park and Carrick Little Car Park. A bespoke shuttle and support service to walking groups is also available. For more information or to book the shuttle service, please contact Peter Magowan on 07516 412076.
Accommodation
The majority of accommodation is not located directly on the Ulster Way and therefore it may be necessary to use public transport, taxis, or where available, shuttle services to travel to and from your accommodation. Some accommodation providers offer shuttle services as well as a number of tour guides.