Amidst the sold-out shows, Celtic Connections is known for its commitment to nurture young talent. And while many of the festival’s acts are already well-established, others are still on the rise.
Michael Palin has called the train ride from Derry to Coleraine “one of the most beautiful rail journeys in the world.” This forty-minute ride hugs the coastline, flashing in and out of tunnels with views like strobe lighting.
Cobh to Killarney
The journey from Cobh to Killarney is a must-see for anyone looking to experience Ireland’s natural beauty. The route is short, but offers sweeping views of the Belvelly Channel and Atlantic Ocean from your train window seat. Upon arrival in Cobh, explore the town’s connection with the Titanic at the Titanic Experience Cobh. Once you’ve finished exploring the site, head out to see the pristine landscape of the Ring of Kerry. It’s home to the highest mountain in Ireland, Carrauntouhil, and countless lakes, rivers, and valleys that can be seen from the train window.
In the south, Cork city is a “thriving metropolis made glorious by location.” Perched on an island in the center of the River Lee, the city offers spectacular views and an incredible variety of culture. Whether you’re admiring the rowing boats on the River Lee or watching sandpipers forage in the marshes at Harper’s Island, there is always something new to discover in this beautiful city.
A short train ride from Cork will take you to the seaside village of Cobh, one of the most scenic towns in Ireland. The city was the final departure point for the Titanic, and you can learn about the harrowing voyage in the Titanic Experience Cobh. Then, enjoy a meal at the many restaurants and pubs in the town.
If you’re planning a trip to Cobh, be sure to book your ticket in advance. Traveling in advance can save you money on your trip and avoid the crowds that are common during peak season. You can also use an online travel planner like Rome2Rio to compare transportation options and find the best deal for your trip.
The Celtic Connections festival was founded in 1994 in Glasgow and is held every January. The festival provides a world-class showcase for Scotland’s wonderful musical heritage and a platform to artists whose music spans traditional and contemporary genres. Besides concerts, the festival also hosts workshops, ceilidhs, talks, and free events that celebrate Scottish culture. In addition to its established Scottish acts, the festival attracts international folk and roots musicians who bring their influences to the festival.
Galway to Limerick
If you want to travel from Galway to Limerick and see some of the country’s beautiful scenery along the way, there are a number of options available. Buses run frequently between the two cities, and you can expect to pay less when traveling outside of peak season. To save money on your trip, try planning to travel at off-peak times of the day, like early morning or late night.
You’ll also be able to save money by purchasing your tickets ahead of time. This can be done online, via phone, or in person. Many companies offer discounts for children, youth, and seniors. It’s always worth checking for these deals as they can sometimes provide a significant savings on your ticket price.
As a result, you’ll have more cash in your pocket for other fun things to do during your stay. There are a number of great ways to get from Galway to Limerick, but a train journey is one of the best options. It offers a comfortable seat and a relaxing experience while you ride through the beautiful Irish countryside.
Whether you’re travelling as part of a larger tour or simply as a day trip, you’ll find plenty to do in Galway and Limerick. Both are walkable cities, so you can easily explore on foot, or opt for public transportation if you prefer. Buses, taxis, and Uber are all readily available in the area, so you’ll have no problem getting around.
While Galway is a wonderful standalone destination, it’s often used as a jumping off point for further Wild Atlantic Way adventures. Located along Ireland’s west coast, it’s a vibrant city with a rich cultural scene and plenty of places to eat and drink. It’s also home to two historic castles, including King John’s.
Limerick is another fascinating city with a mix of contemporary and historical attractions. A city of Georgian architecture, it hosts a lively pub and restaurant culture and a growing foodie scene. You’ll also find several museums, galleries, and other attractions to keep you busy. There’s even a castle, Bunratty Castle, that provides a window into the past.
Sligo to Cork
One of Ireland’s most scenic rail routes stretches from the rocky shores of Cobh to the mountains and lakes of Killarney. In between, you’ll find a variety of thrilling festivals, historic towns, and enchanting countryside. With such a wide variety of things to do, it’s important to plan ahead when traveling to Ireland. That way, you can take advantage of the best train tickets to Cork.
You can book your train ticket from Sligo to Cork easily on Virail. Just enter your travel dates and choose a train departure time. The first departure of the day normally leaves at 7:00 AM, and the last departure is usually at 3:25 PM. These are general times, but they may be subject to change due to local events, holidays, or peak seasons. It’s also a good idea to plan your trip around off-peak travel times when you can save money on your train ticket.
The train from Sligo to Cork takes on average 7h 25m to cover the 164-mile (265 km) distance. The route departs from Sligo Station and passes through ancient townlands and off-radar villages. Low stone walls line the fields as you travel toward Gort, a market town where it’s easy to explore Coole Park nature reserve or Thoor Ballylee, a Celtic village where poet WB Yeats lived and director John Ford filmed scenes from the 1952 film The Quiet Man. At Ennis, you’ll find Mooghaun Hill Fort and woods, while the train curves past a scenic riverside village to Sixmilebridge.
A final stop in Drogheda reveals long swathes of coastline and the Unesco-listed archaeological site of Bru na Boinne, where impressive prehistoric tombs are carved into the landscape. From here, the train crosses the 18-arch Craigmore Viaduct before arriving at Lanyon Station, a few miles from where you can celebrate the birth of an ocean colossus at Titanic Belfast.
Trains from Sligo to Cork offer a relaxing, stress-free way to travel the country. You can enjoy a delicious meal or snack as the scenery rolls by, and you won’t have to worry about traffic or parking. Plus, a train ticket is often cheaper than a car rental or flight.
Antrim to Coleraine
The northernmost region of Ireland is home to breathtaking coastal scenery, ancient legends and a fascinating culture that is all yours to discover. On the Causeway Coastal Route, explore attractions including Bushmills Distillery, Dunluce Castle and Carrick-a-Rede Rope Bridge. Or travel between Derry
The town of Coleraine (ko
To make the most of your trip, plan your time well to take advantage of discounted train ticket prices and off-peak rates. Consider taking the slower, scenic route if you’re flexible on your schedule and don’t mind a little extra travel time. It may also save you money if you are willing to travel during times when traffic is at its peak, such as during rush hour or popular holiday periods.
Bus routes are also available to explore the area. Bus 172 / 402 tours the Antrim coastline, stopping at Portrush, Bushmills and Ballintoy (for the Carrick-a-Rede rope bridge). Bus 139 runs four times M-F from Limavady via Castledawson and Magherafelt to Coleraine, or opt for Ulsterbus 116 between Limavady and Coleraine.
Regardless of which method of transport you choose, make sure to check out the local guide for your destination. This will give you plenty of ideas on what to do and see, and where to eat, too. If you’re a history buff, look for an itinerary that highlights the major historic sites in the area. You could also find a tour that combines a scenic rail ride with coach day trips, providing a balanced mix of travel and guided visits. For the ultimate experience, you can also book a comprehensive Ireland train package that bundles sightseeing with a stay at one of the best hotels in town.
