Translink Travel Advice For The 153rd Open
Jul 08, 2025
Translink is reminding anyone heading to Portrush during The 153rd Open Championship week (13-20 July) to plan their travel in advance and leave extra time for journeys.
Every available train, coach and bus will be in operation to accommodate thousands of additional passengers. Customers should expect services to be busy, particularly during the main championship days (17-20 July).
Around 278,000 visitors are expected to attend the Championship. Speaking about the scale of the transport plan, Translink’s Sarah Simpson, said:
“After the success of 2019, we’re looking forward to The Open’s return to Northern Ireland. With huge numbers of fans heading to the Causeway Coast to watch the world’s greatest golfers, public transport will once again play a vital role in showcasing this area to a huge audience.
“Our extensive transport plan provides extra capacity for over 115,000 passengers travelling to and around Portrush for this world-class sporting event, offering spectators plenty of choice and convenience, reducing traffic congestion and ensuring visitors enjoy their trip to this stunning visitor destination.
“There will be enhanced train capacity & frequency including additional services to Portrush & late evening return services. Special bus and coach services are also available in addition to normal Goldliner services and our popular Ulsterbus 140 service travelling between Coleraine & Portrush will also be enhanced.
“I would encourage anyone heading to The Open to visit our website for travel options and make the most of their time on the Causeway Coast,” adds Sarah.
In addition to all the special services to Portrush for the Championship, Translink will be maintaining the operation of around 13,000 services per day across the bus and rail network, supporting around 1 million passenger journeys to destinations across NI over the week.
Ahead of the exciting week of golf, Translink has issued the following important travel advice:
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Following high demand, there is still some availability left for special services to Portrush - check www.translink.co.uk/the-153rd-open for details & online bookings.
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Golf fans can also choose from a range of normal timetabled bus, coach and rail services to Portrush – download the Translink JourneyPlanner App to plan your travel.
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Arrive at stations 30 minutes before departure time. A queuing system will be in place and seating will be available on a first come, first served basis with additional standing room available.
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If possible, anyone not attending the golf should travel by train to Portrush after 10.00am.
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Due to large numbers travelling on services, there will be limited space for bags, buggies, bicycles or any other bulky items.
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Follow the latest Translink travel updates follow @Translink_NI #OpenTravel.Park & Ride
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For more details on The Open Park & Ride options visit TheOpen.com
Train Services-
Tickets for special trains must be booked online to secure travel.
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Spectators can also use normal scheduled rail services to Portrush.
Coach / Bus Services-
Special bus and coach services are available for travel to Portrush subject to demand with online booking essential.
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Spectators can also choose the Goldliner 218 coach service from Belfast Laganside Bus Station or 234 service from Derry~Londonderry to Coleraine with onward Portrush bus connection.
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Local Ulsterbus 140 services travelling between Coleraine & Portrush will be enhanced (5 min frequency) running 5.50am - 11.00pm (Mon – Sun) and stopping at major caravan/camping sites along the route.
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Additional morning (6.00am & 7.00am) and evening services (8.15pm & 9.15pm) will be available on Ulsterbus 402 between Coleraine and Ballycastle operating on a 20 min frequency.
The T Zone-
Translink will deliver a free family-friendly golf fanzone in Belfast Grand Central Station on July 17 – 20, 9-5pm.
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With a 9-hole mini golf course, golf-themed games and giveaways, everyone is invited to come along and enjoy all the action!
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