A narrow-gauge heritage train runs the 2 miles between Bushmills and the Giant’s Causeway, crossing the River Bush and running past Bushfoot Golf Club along the way — a slower, more scenic alternative to driving or the tram-turned-tourist-path. The journey takes about 20 minutes each way.
History
The line runs along part of the route of the original Giant’s Causeway Tramway, opened in 1883 and designed by local engineer Colonel William Traill. It was the world’s first long-distance hydroelectric tramway — power came from a generating station Traill built at Walkmill Falls on the River Bush — and one of the earliest electric tramways anywhere. It carried passengers between Portrush, Bushmills, and the Causeway for 65 years before closing in 1949.
The heritage railway reopened on part of the old trackbed in 2002, run today by a preservation group using restored diesel and steam-era locomotives.
Getting there and parking
Bushmills platform is a short walk from the town centre, close to where the original tram terminus stood — that old building is now a private house. Car parking at the Bushmills end is around £8 per car and £4 for motorcycles; pay at the ticket office or the honesty box if it’s unattended.
The Giant’s Causeway station end sits a short walk from the visitor centre and the stone columns themselves — showing a train ticket there gets a discount on Visitor Centre entry.
Before you go
The train is volunteer-run and doesn’t operate daily year-round, so it’s worth calling ahead: (028) 2073 2844. There’s a picnic area and light refreshments at the Bushmills station — arrive at least 10 minutes before your scheduled departure.
Parking address: Giant’s Causeway Station, Runkerry Road, Bushmills, BT57 8SZ.
