This blog post details a train journey from Belfast to Dublin on the Enterprise service, highlighting the experience at Belfast Grand Central Station, the train's amenities, and the scenic views along the route, while also discussing the historical context of the railway line.
Traveling from Belfast to Dublin offers a unique experience, especially when taking the train. In this blog post, we will explore the journey on the Enterprise service, starting from the modern Belfast Grand Central Station to the bustling Dublin Connolly Station.
Our adventure begins at Belfast Grand Central Station, a modern transport hub that replaced the former Great Victoria Street Railway Station. The station opened in phases, with the first bus service to Dublin commencing on September 8, 2024, and the first train service following shortly after on October 13, 2024.
Booking tickets online was a straightforward process, allowing us to print them off easily for our departure. Grand Central Station is notably quiet, with minimal announcements, making it essential to utilize the departures board and customer information screens. The station is well-staffed, ensuring assistance is readily available.
As we explored the station, we noted its spacious and bright layout, complete with various retail outlets. The design and functionality of the station received high praise, making it a pleasant starting point for our journey.
After a brief wait, we made our way to platform 6 for our 11:00 AM departure to Dublin Connolly, scheduled to arrive at 1:13 PM. The Enterprise service, which began on August 11, 1947, was initially a non-stop express to compete with air travel between the two cities. Today, the service includes several stops, including Portadown, Newry, Dundalk, and Drogheda, yet still maintains a travel time comparable to the original express service.
We boarded a Class 22000 intercity railcar, settling into coach C, which features a standard 2-2 seating layout. As we departed, we passed notable landmarks, including the home of Linfield Football Club and the historic Moira Castle, a remnant from the Nine Years War.
The journey took us across the 18 Arch Craigmore Viaduct, the highest viaduct in Ireland, which opened in 1852. This engineering marvel provided stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Along the way, we also discussed the potential reopening of several railway lines that had been closed in the past, including the Lisburn to Antrim line and the Portadown to Armagh line.
As we traveled, we encountered various passenger experiences, including a humorous moment involving loud music from fellow travelers. This prompted a reflection on modern etiquette in shared spaces.
The train's seating was comfortable, though opinions varied; while one of us found the seats well-padded, another felt they were too firm for a long journey. The train also featured a buffet car and a trolley service, enhancing the travel experience.
The cost of an adult single ticket from Belfast to Dublin was an impressive £14.99, offering great value for money. Comparatively, a ticket from Belfast to Newry was only £14.50, raising questions about the pricing strategy for short-distance travel.
As we approached Dublin, the scenery shifted, and the train became busier, reflecting the importance of this rail link. Upon arrival at Dublin Connolly Station, we quickly transitioned to catch a bus to the airport, concluding our journey.
Overall, the train journey from Belfast to Dublin on the Enterprise service was a delightful experience. The combination of affordability, comfort, and scenic views made it a worthwhile trip. Future explorations may include trying the bus service between the two cities, but for now, the train has set a high standard.
Thank you for joining us on this journey, and we hope to see you on our next adventure!
