Niles

Join historian Jonathan Beaumont as we explore what's left of the Woodenbridge-Shillelagh branch line, closed 1944. As a treat for bus enthusiasts, we will be using a 1996 Volvo Plaxton bus courtesy of Leonards of Coolgreany, one of the only left in regular use. The tour departs Arklow railway station at 09:40, for a journey taking the locations once served by the Woodenbridge Junction to Shillelagh branch line of the Dubin & South Eastern Railway. We will be back in Arklow for 14:20. Dublin passengers may wish to use the 07:55 Connolly-Rosslare service train as far as Arklow and return on the 14:35 service from Arklow. Tickets are strictly non-refundable. https://www.tailtetours.com/event-details/return-to-shillelagh-a-bustitution-railtour-of-the-shillelagh-branch-line

On Saturday, 26th September, Táilte Tours CLG is proud to present The Achill Explorer, a tour of the former Westport to Achill branch line. The tour will be guided by historian Jonathan Beaumont, author of Rails to Achill. https://www.tailtetours.com/event-details/the-achill-explorer-a-bustitution-railtour We will be using the 08:03 Iarnród Éireann service from Kildare, arriving back in Kildare for 21:35. We have been advised by Iarnród Éireann of engineering works taking place between Heuston and Kildare on the day. This will mean bus transfers between Dublin and Kildare, and earlier departure times/later arrival times as a result. The bus transfer is leaving Dublin Heuston at 06:20, and is back for 22:40. Our arrival in Westport just after 11:00. From here, we will board our chartered bus, which will take us on a journey up to Achill, calling at key locations served by the former Midland Great Western Railway branch line along the way, such as Newport and Mulranny, for a day of exploring. Opened in 1895, this branch line was closed by the Great Southern Railways as far back as 1937, but its history and folklore live on to this day. We will also be picking up/setting down at Newport, (Grainne Uaille), for 11:20 (back by 18:00). Our bus will return us to Westport in time to make the 18:30 service train back to Kildare and Dublin Heuston. We have a number of ticketing options available, including rail travel from Kildare and a 'bus only' fare for those of you joining locally in Westport. Tickets once purchased are strictly non-refundable.

Book online at https://www.downrail.co.uk/event/supertrain/ (advance booking essential) Type of train: Diesel (450 class) Join the superheroes on board the SuperTrain at Downpatrick on Saturday 2nd May – can your little heroes help save the Hulk? Hulk, the strongest hero alive has been brainwashed and his immense strength has turned against the very heroes he once fought beside. He wants to take over the railway, and there’s no telling what havoc he’ll unleash without help from your little heroes. Hop aboard the SuperTrain, team up with Spider-Man and friends for this action-packed family adventure full of teamwork, courage and heart, and help save the day. Costumes are encouraged, courage is required! Dates & times This event is running on Saturday 2nd May 2026. Trains depart from Downpatrick at: 11:00, 12:20, 13:40, 15:00