Belfast to Dublin - My Disappointing Experience on the Enterprise ‘Inter-city’ Train

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  • Опубліковано 16 лип 2024
  • Well guys, I had really been looking forward to this trip - the Enterprise a train that would take me from Belfast in Northern Ireland down to Dublin in the Republic of Ireland.
    Unfortunately, my initial excitement quickly diminished as a result of well, I'll let the video tell its own story shall I! Let's just say, I won't be in a hurry to return. Don't get me wrong, I love Belfast, Dublin and the two respective countries they are capital cities of, but this train (and line) needs a lot of attention.
    Have a watch and let me know what you think. Please remember, it's my opinion of this particular train on the specific day I travelled. You may have a different experience so I look forward to reading your comments good and bad.
    As always guys, thanks for watching and cheers for now!
    Mark
    🔴 Ko-fi page and shop here: ko-fi.com/letsmakeatrip
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    Picture Credits:
    All Maps: OpenStreetMap (route added)
    www.openstreetmap.org/
    📖Chapters
    00:00 - Intro
    01:36 - Seat review
    04:10 - Access denied
    06:40 - Loo review
    09:30 - Journey thoughts & comparisons
    11:13 - Summary

КОМЕНТАРІ • 141

  • @ewanduffy
    @ewanduffy 2 роки тому +13

    The "Enterprise" moniker came from moving the customs checks from Dundalk (Free State/RoI) and Goraghwood (NI) to the Dublin and Belfast, thereby eliminating the need to stop at Dundalk and Goraghwood for time consuming customs procedures. The Great Northern Railway of Ireland (Patterson) p. 126

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +2

      Cheers Ewan, I was hoping someone could explain the naming for me and that makes perfect sense. Much appreciated 😊👍

  • @NonstopEurotrip
    @NonstopEurotrip 2 роки тому +1

    Interesting video Mark, I'll have to try it one day. Shame about your bad experiences though...

  • @AnatolyDyatolov
    @AnatolyDyatolov 2 роки тому +2

    good video! enjoyed it!

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому

      Hi Anatoly, glad you liked it and cheers for the comment 😊👍

  • @slugdub101
    @slugdub101 29 днів тому +1

    2 years ago, 2022, we were really still under Covid regulations, and it impacted on everything. I'm not sure if the full catering has even returned yet, but it was certainly all off back then, as was 'excessive' over staffing, etc. It's still not an amazing train or anything, but it is usually better than the experience tou seem to have had.

  • @janer2709
    @janer2709 2 роки тому +4

    Also Mark consider a trip to Fermanagh. It's about a 2 hour bus trip to Enniskillen from the Europa and the Goldliner buses are very comfortable. They seem to have invested in quite a lot of new stock recently.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +2

      Thanks Jane - my list is getting longer 😊 I need to do some research when I get back I think!

  • @skimmingstoness
    @skimmingstoness 2 роки тому +11

    For years Lanyon Place was called Central Station but it's over a mile from the centre of Belfast. The most central station is actually Great Northern Street on Great Victoria Street. Travelled the Enterprise many times and it's quite comfortable although it broke down several times. The biggest issue is the time it takes nearly 2 and a 1/2 hours to go just over 100 miles which is ridiculous in 2022. Just look at the time and distance from the Home Counties commuter belts into central London and it's less than half that time. For a key route between two major cities it's astonishingly slow.

    • @cehaem2
      @cehaem2 Рік тому

      It's like 400 m from Donegall Square....

    • @damianc.0.681
      @damianc.0.681 Місяць тому

      Actually Birmingham-London (110 miles) takes 1 and a half hours but yeah I get what u mean. 2 and a half hours is way too much for the price.
      Although, tbf the Chiltern mainline takes jsut over 2 hours to do 112 miles so they are kinda the same sort of time. 10 stops between London and Birmingham with Chiltern and 6 with Avanti but Avanti west coast over here are very very unreliable so even though Chiltern takes longer that’s probably your best option until Avanti sort themselves out.

    • @eugenedonaghy1
      @eugenedonaghy1 27 днів тому

      The Enterprise will be starting from the newly built Grand Central Station in Autumn 2024

  • @qwertyTRiG
    @qwertyTRiG 2 роки тому +6

    I've had some very good food on the Enterprise. When the catering is functioning, it functions well. And the route has decent (though not extraordinary) coastal views, certainly better than the motorway.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      I’m so disappointed I didn’t get to sample the catering and I’m sure the staff can be better. I’ll always be 100% honest with the review which is I think what people expect. But this is one of those times where I’ll have to go back at some point when the service is functioning properly. All the best, Mark 😊👍

    • @williamdodds1394
      @williamdodds1394 Рік тому

      @@LetsMakeaTrip Youve got to take into fact there was a Terrorist war waged here for over 30 years with IRA putting bombs on this line and trying to blow bridges so the government never put investment into the railways as England Scotland wales only when the so called peace was signed did they upgrade the route what needs to happen is a new high speed line built between Belfast and Dublin and maybe take it to cork with fast new electric trains on it at 180 mph the older line to use for commuter service between the towns and of course freight; Will it be built we need to push it but there was plans for this in the mean time the Enterprize is to replaced with new stock in a few years .

    • @irishtrainscenes1772
      @irishtrainscenes1772 Рік тому

      ​@@LetsMakeaTrip Catering only returned to Enterprise services in March.

  • @STNW1956
    @STNW1956 Рік тому +2

    I travel on this service regularly. It’s always an enjoyable journey. Everything included for each class and time of train is explained online when booking your tickets including that some trains don’t have a service. The cooked food is delicious and customer service is usually excellent. First class is great value for money.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  Рік тому

      Good to know things have improved since I took this journey Siobhan 👍

  • @sandiandgregh
    @sandiandgregh Рік тому +2

    That's too bad. We're from Canada and use the service (Dublin to Belfast, and Belfast to Dublin) on our annual trips...and always have a great time. However, we obviously weren't over during COVID so our experiences would be of "regular" times. We used it last autumn and all was well as usual. Will be back in September so we'll see!

  • @Lner1922
    @Lner1922 Рік тому +3

    To clear up the catering issue there is currently no catering on any Irish Rail service due to the contractor who did the catering pulling out. Any catering on the Enterprise is provided by NIR and only on the trains they operate. Irish Rail are currently in discussions with a number of parties to take over the service and are hoping catering will be back on trains early 2023, which remains to be seen

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  Рік тому

      Cheers Lner1922, great info 👍 I’d like to say I’d be back to try it again when it eventually starts up but I really don’t feel the urge on this occasion. I am going to try the coach between the two cities though at some point as I think that’s a serious alternative atm. All the best, Mark

  • @derisleybrittain
    @derisleybrittain 2 роки тому +1

    Excellent as ever🥂🥂🥂🥂🥂

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      Cheers a Derisley, I was down the pub when I read this so I’ll drink to that 🍻🍻🍻🍻🍻🍺🍺 👍😊

  • @PC-vg8vn
    @PC-vg8vn 2 роки тому +13

    You said you bought your ticket online. Perhaps the website wasnt up to date at the time, but certainly now it is spelled out to customers that there is limited catering - it actually shows you which train services have a trolley service etc and which dont. As I understand catering was cancelled due to Covid but I assume it will eventually get back to normal. Certainly anytime I travelled previous to Covid there was always at least a trolley service which served hot drinks etc.
    Also the website states, referring to the ticket type: "This is a Non-Refundable and Non-Transferable product - please ensure this suits your travel needs before purchase." This seems to mean once you have bought your ticket that is your only option, you cant upgrade on board. Whilst the conductor should have simply explained that to you, I dont think you can complain about it as that was the condition under which you bought the ticket.
    Finally you complained about the slowness of the service. Yes it is quite slow as it's not a high speed train, but again you should have known that before taking the journey as you would have been aware of the distance and the journey time, and hence average speed. So Im unsure where your 'disappointment' comes from. As for the countryside, Im sorry you were unimpressed but Im not quite sure what you were expecting to see out of a Belfast to Dublin train window: the Sydney Opera House perhaps, the Hanging Gardens of Babylon, herds of wildebeest sweeping majestically...to quote a certain hotel owner.

  • @mjj5276
    @mjj5276 Рік тому +2

    I love getting the Enterprise to and from Dublin.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  Рік тому

      Have you ever tried the coach MJ? Might be worth a go, I’d be interested to know what it’s like.

    • @mjj5276
      @mjj5276 Рік тому +1

      @@LetsMakeaTrip I drove it for years. 😁
      Maybe that's why I preferred the train but a toilet and chance of food and a beer wins for me.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  Рік тому +1

      @@mjj5276 bit more room to move about aswell tbf 👍

    • @mjj5276
      @mjj5276 Рік тому +1

      @@LetsMakeaTrip Yeah, even at the seat, more legroom unless you're at the centre seat in the back row of the bus.
      The Enterprise service will be enhanced no doubt once it moves to the new Grand Central Station (when completed) there's already talk of an hourly service and I'd assume newer stock.

    • @mjj5276
      @mjj5276 Рік тому

      @Joe Kerry Thanks for that. I drove them for about 20 years.

  • @dillonryan2540
    @dillonryan2540 3 місяці тому +2

    These trains are going to be more frequent towards the end of this year and there's going to be new trains coming into service towards the end of this decade which will replace the current trains that's being used in service and the frequency will be once an hour in each direction

  • @JonathanMcCormack
    @JonathanMcCormack 2 роки тому +3

    Half of Poyntzpass is named after Lieutenant Charles Poyntz who was gifted land there after a battle.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      From the Somerset area according to Google. Interesting that as I wouldn’t have it down as being a very English surname tbh. Thanks for the info 😊👍

  • @colmreilly8779
    @colmreilly8779 8 місяців тому +1

    Best sea views to be had on the east facing side of the train closer to Dublin.

  • @paulodonoghue7478
    @paulodonoghue7478 7 місяців тому +1

    Travelled on enterprise a few times. Very disappointing even in 1st.class. Breakfast was rubbish. Train speeds slow as tracks need major upgrade to allow for greater speeds. Also when you get near Dublin you can be held up with Darts and commuter trains. The paths of trains need to be altered to allow enterprise a direct run to Connolly Station

  • @formidable38
    @formidable38 Рік тому +2

    Those old cariages were actually ex British Railways MK2's that were exported to NI sometime during the 80's. They were re-engineered to suit the slightly wider Irish track guage.
    Looks like they're now off to scrap.

  • @griffin801
    @griffin801 2 роки тому +4

    It sounds like you got a train operated by Irish Rail, who have incredibly bad customer service. The services operated by Translink have much better customer service.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому

      Hi Kenny, yes others have commented something similar so I think you're right. Just didn't seem interested at all - shouldn't be in customer-facing roles tbh but there you go, live and learn I guess. Cheers.

  • @Scumbelina55
    @Scumbelina55 2 роки тому +2

    We don't have train managers in Ireland

  • @minecraftbuilds1960
    @minecraftbuilds1960 2 роки тому +2

    if you find the stations in the north arent as nice, try visiting stations on the derry line... Ballymoney, coleraine, castlerock, the old bellarena halt and waterside.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому

      Hi Minecraft Builds, yes I went to Coleraine (which I really liked). Check out my earlier video to Portrush if you haven’t already, there’s a bit of that on there. What I meant really was just the stations specific to this line.

  • @michaelmccarthy9411
    @michaelmccarthy9411 8 місяців тому +1

    Of course they'll say no in Northern Ireland

  • @jmo8934
    @jmo8934 Рік тому +4

    Honest review. The catering services were all closed after the pandemic restrictions for a while due to staff shortages which is unfortunate. I have been on the enterprise Dublin to Belfast a couple of times and it is painfully slow. It takes way too long to get there and makes going by rail almost pointless really. It could be made much quicker.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  Рік тому +1

      Cheers J Mo, agree needs investment. I’m thinking about the airlink coach now which is just as quick apparently and if you’re flying out of Dublin it’s much easier.

    • @Fcutdlady
      @Fcutdlady Рік тому +1

      @Let’s Make a Trip! I think you mean aircoach. I caught it from the airport to the suburb of Dublin where I live a lot. It does have a good service.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  Рік тому

      @@Fcutdlady yep, it’d be the one that goes from Belfast down to DUB. Hopefully try it out early next year 👍

  • @stephenmckinstry9881
    @stephenmckinstry9881 2 роки тому +2

    the fact the a joint service by Translink and Irish rail the Rolling Stock is form about 1997 but were refurbished but they need replaced they are Outdated

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      Agree, but they need to speed it up a bit too. Just 5 mins faster than the coach isn’t much of a selling point. Line speed must be restricted in the north too - probably due to cost (as with everything). The Translink service I was on the day before was much better AND they had a catering trolley.

  • @KarlBlackOfDublin
    @KarlBlackOfDublin 2 роки тому +3

    I wonder the staff on the train you traveled on, are from Belfast or Dublin. When I traveled on it once, with a Belfast crew, who were very helpfully. This was before Covid times. I think it depends on the staff you get on the train, some are more helpfully then others.

    • @JonathanMcCormack
      @JonathanMcCormack 2 роки тому +2

      We traveled about 10 years ago with my Son, Belfast to Dublin was fine, but the way back was a nightmare.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +2

      That’s interesting, I’ve no idea tbh but yep, I saw who I presume was the train manager walk past once (about half an hour after I’d asked about an upgrade) and I’ve no idea why he bothered. It wasn’t as if he was checking tickets or anything 🤷‍♂️🤷‍♂️

  • @davidlally592
    @davidlally592 Рік тому +1

    Mm I've been a regular Enterprise user (when over from London to my homeland) for a no of years. Leaving the recent covid restrictions aside, the service has always had some catering (and if travelling 1st class, a free soft drink once aboard). The DeDeitrich Enterprise stock was recently given a mid life refurb. Soon, a joint Belfast/Dublin govt all Ireland Rail Review will be published. Amongst likely suggestions (as well as electrification) is one re a return of some non stop Dublin Belfast services, plus the usual stopping pattern. Thus is to enhance the reduction in carbon and make train travel between the two biggest Irish cities, more attractive. Of course one on going problem has been that any southbound Enterprise, if late, can get caught up by the local DART Electric suburban services.

  • @simonwhitlock9189
    @simonwhitlock9189 2 роки тому +2

    Sorry to see that it was such a disappointment especially when it would take so little to improve it, other than that a great and honest review, take care and stay safe,cheers.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +2

      Cheers Simon, good to hear from you as always. Yep, I may get some hate on it but it’s an honest review of my experience at the time and you guys deserve nothing less. I hope someone will comment on this at some point and say the catering’s back and they really enjoyed it. Until then, it’s a bit poor imo.

    • @simonwhitlock9189
      @simonwhitlock9189 2 роки тому +1

      @@LetsMakeaTrip Honesty will always win out, hope there is no negative criticism but everyone is entitled to their opinion, best of luck and stay safe.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      @@simonwhitlock9189 yep they are. Tbf, most people here will provide constructive criticism and/or further info which is useful for me and others. Very rarely get idiots* with nothing sensible to say (*instant block 😂).

  • @irishrailenthusiast1977
    @irishrailenthusiast1977 2 роки тому +4

    It's the best train of all IÉ/NIR fleet. Seats are cushion soft, MK4 trains are very similar to the Enterprise but are newer style. The DDs are beautiful and I love travelling on them. Yes the bus services are good but that's more so due to the development of roads as opposed to railways in Ireland. Comfort wise though the bus comes nowhere close to the train, more convenient or not

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      Cheers for the comment. Any plans to replace the current rolling stock do you think?

    • @irishrailenthusiast1977
      @irishrailenthusiast1977 2 роки тому

      @@LetsMakeaTrip I would say in the next 3-4 years they'll be replaced, can't see them lasting much longer due to the maintenance requirements and also the Mk3 Gen van is 1980s tech. I'd say the Mk4s will join the route 🙂

    • @irishrailenthusiast1977
      @irishrailenthusiast1977 2 роки тому

      @@LetsMakeaTrip I hope though that they increase speed and also improve the signalling to allow 90mph throughout the journey if not 125mph 🙂

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому

      @@irishrailenthusiast1977 that would make a difference yes. I'll keep an eye out for any improvements. In the mean time, I'll be looking to try a few other lines out next time i'm over. Belfast to Londonderry/Derry has been recommended, need to think about one or two from Dublin too I reckon. Cheers.

    • @irishtrainscenes1772
      @irishtrainscenes1772 2 роки тому +1

      @@LetsMakeaTrip There are plans to replace the current stock, However this is not happening until 2026/2027.

  • @schwarzalben88
    @schwarzalben88 Рік тому

    These train sets are better than the coaches that used to be used on it, depending if the sets were provided by NIR or IE.mI havent been on it in a few years but there was always catering provided on it in the past when ive used it (payable in Euros or Sterling) Its slightly faster than it used to be. In general Train services in Ireland ( North and South) are slower than in the UK

  • @dh-mm4pt
    @dh-mm4pt 2 місяці тому +1

    Your negative comments about the Enterprise service are very surprising to me. My own experiences on this train have always been positive. There has always been food available for all passengers.
    However I do agree that the service could be faster, but I understand that the speed will improve soon when the new Grand Central station comes into use.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  Місяць тому

      I was surprised there was no food available on this service but hopefully this has now been restored post-restrictions?

    • @elwisuntemp7199
      @elwisuntemp7199 Місяць тому

      @@LetsMakeaTrip It’s returned, but only on the Enterprise and the flagship Dublin-Cork route. Apparently it was making a loss so they used Covid as an opportunity to get rid of it, and for some reason the Cork train uses snack trolleys instead of the existing buffet car. Pretty average snack selection, the menu is available online. Enterprise first class has gained a lot of value though, with decent hot food served to your seat, as well as hot towels given out. It seems from my understanding that’s only for if you board at either of the termini, as orders are taken shortly after departing Dublin/Belfast. Could be wrong though, you may be able to order from the buffet car but I haven’t tried and doesn’t seem to be stated online. Might have to give them an email. It seems at the moment that some services are operated by Irish Rail DMUs, but I haven’t found anything about that published online; I only found out through a Twitter post by Rail Users Ireland. It seems you can tell when booking with Irish Rail which services these are because first class will be cheaper, presumably because its seating is basically standard class plus a lamp beside your table. I haven’t tried whether this works when booking with Northern Ireland Railways as their prices aren’t regulated by the transport authority, as far as I’m aware.

  • @eamonosullivan2702
    @eamonosullivan2702 Рік тому +1

    Seems a fair appraisal based on the experience. I've been on it a few times, badly needs an upgrade.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  Рік тому

      Agree, because I’m not sure it’s improved much since my trip judging by others comments.

  • @EuroDC1990
    @EuroDC1990 2 роки тому +1

    I used the enterprise service a few months back, I'd sailed from Liverpool to Belfast and booked a sailing back from Dublin to Holyhead, going out of my way to try the Enterprise service.
    I was also left incredibly disappointed, the train that ran the service ended up being a normal NIR unit like I'd used many times before. Not bad units, bit hardly suited to intercity travel and also no catering either.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      Hi DC1990. Yep, I share your disappointment, I can’t add to that as I experienced exactly the same and felt the same afterwards. The ferries on the other hand are, generally speaking, very good. I would be interested to know which ones you took. Cheers 👍

    • @EuroDC1990
      @EuroDC1990 2 роки тому +1

      @@LetsMakeaTrip I've used Stena Edda and Stena Estrid, both of which were fantastic and I've used the Stena Europe which was nice enough albeit a little dated. All in all though no complaints at all with Stena line, used them for several trips over to Ireland and found them to be well priced, reliable and comfortable

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому

      @@EuroDC1990 agree, I filmed a video of the Stena Estrid when it (briefly) did the Holyhead - Belfast route last year. Fantastic cabin at the rear - a really nice ship that.

    • @Fcutdlady
      @Fcutdlady Рік тому

      It should be made clear that catering was not reinstated after the lockdown. In Connolly Station Dublin there is a newsagent, OBriens sandwich cafe and AMT concession stand in the station. there is a Starbucks just outside it. as you come up the stairs or escalator it's on the left-hand side of the main entrance door, if you come out of the station it's on the right-hand side. It's hidden away a bit! You can buy food to take with you.

  • @julianprus7868
    @julianprus7868 10 місяців тому +2

    Ireland needs billions into its rail infrastructure. It's disgraceful.

  • @bob-seek-destroy-sd1708
    @bob-seek-destroy-sd1708 2 роки тому +1

    Spent many a journey by enterprise and found it fantastic and comfortable

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      Hi, I would be interested to know what you thought of the catering (when it was available). Cheers BOB 👍

    • @bob-seek-destroy-sd1708
      @bob-seek-destroy-sd1708 2 роки тому +1

      @@LetsMakeaTrip I found the catering fine the staff were friendly and the trolley service was very good even though I spent most times at the bar drinking a few vodkas lol

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      @@bob-seek-destroy-sd1708 that sounds great tbf and a totally different experience to the one I had. Tell you what BOB, if let me know when it’s back to normal again, I’ll try to get back and give it another go. Cheers.

    • @bob-seek-destroy-sd1708
      @bob-seek-destroy-sd1708 2 роки тому +1

      @@LetsMakeaTrip I know the service has had problems over the years due to HEP been used by the locomotives which IR and NIR were advised not to use HEP as it damages the locos, the mk3 generator vans are 1980s style probably not compatible enough with the enterprise stock, I'm heading to Belfast 6th may hopefully it will be an enterprise service and not a NIR railcar, I'll make a video and post it 👍

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      @@bob-seek-destroy-sd1708 yes, please let me know when you post it. I’ll be interested to see how it is. Cheers 👍

  • @beebee404
    @beebee404 Рік тому

    If you liked Dundalk station, Lisburn train station in Northern Ireland is near identical (as they were both built by the same railway company)

  • @mireilleamuri8432
    @mireilleamuri8432 6 місяців тому +1

    Did you have to show your passport at that crossing bord

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  5 місяців тому

      Nope, just goes straight across.

  • @andrewwoodgate3769
    @andrewwoodgate3769 2 роки тому +1

    I went on it a couple of days ago and thought it was OK. There was a catering trolley.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      Cheers Andrew, have they got the catering back yet do you know?

    • @irishtrainscenes1772
      @irishtrainscenes1772 2 роки тому +1

      @@LetsMakeaTrip There is only a few services with catering back.

  • @ewanduffy
    @ewanduffy 2 роки тому +1

    Most of the original stations in NI were either bombed or demolished by the authorities. Lisburn is a rare example of a GNR(I) style building left on the Dublin Belfast line in NI. Similar yellow brick structures exist in the Republic at Dundalk, Drogheda and Malahide (may be others).

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому

      There were some nice stations on the Belfast - Coleraine line, I quite enjoyed that trip. The signal box at Dundalk was pretty interesting re: it’s location too - highlight of the trip for me 😊👍

    • @ewanduffy
      @ewanduffy 2 роки тому

      @@LetsMakeaTrip Dundalk Central was originally located south of the station and has been relocated to the platform as a static exhibit. There was previously a Dundalk North Cabin at the station (Down side at the Belfast end) but this has been demolished.

    • @capnskiddies
      @capnskiddies Рік тому

      Sutton & Howth stations still have their GNRI canopies.

  • @gerarddeegan1164
    @gerarddeegan1164 2 роки тому +2

    Try dublin to cork city with irish rail

  • @Timstravels01
    @Timstravels01 2 роки тому +2

    Underwhelming. Customer service should not be hit and miss. This was a trip I was thinking of making. Now I'm not so sure.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      I’m not going to recommend it Tim - just a bit of a let down tbh. Shame really as all the other train staff I met were fine. I guess it would be kind of good though to see what other people think.

    • @EvanCleary
      @EvanCleary 2 роки тому

      TAKE IT

  • @simonc7947
    @simonc7947 2 роки тому +1

    You didn't mention that the track gauge is wider than in Great Britain. 5'3" or 1600mm.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      I didn’t but thanks for the info 😊👍

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому

      I didn’t but thanks for the info 😊👍

  • @pedrorubiotejero_aka_prt
    @pedrorubiotejero_aka_prt 2 роки тому +2

    Video's score: 10
    Cheers for now!

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      Another 10 Pedro, cheers mate - I must be doing something right 😊. Glad you enjoyed it 👍

  • @Lner1922
    @Lner1922 Рік тому +1

    Mark if you want to try a mainstream train service in ireland travel out of Dublin to any destination in the South or West. The Belfast service has been something of a Cindrerella since the takeover of the GNR by both states in the late 50's. Irish Rail and their predecessor CIE never put much into it as they have serious doubts about its potential. At least 3 other mainline services in the Republic carry more passengers,.In theory given the service serves the 2 largest urban centres on the island it should be the best but you need to remember that half the population of the Belfast area would not set foot in the Republic if you paid them. This is not a derogotery comment but a sad fact.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  Рік тому

      I went to Galway on the train - a long time ago now (can’t remember what it was like tbh). But yes, I do fancy something like that again and maybe one way on the bus? Definitely interested in something along those lines next year. Watch this space!

  • @SebaZero
    @SebaZero Рік тому

    Is there an immigration procedure for crossing the border?

  • @kevinrichard100
    @kevinrichard100 10 місяців тому

    Uninspiring scenery?
    You passed through an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty near Newry.
    We're you in the Toilet?
    Like many others I found it was an interesting, comfortable, scenic, and enjoyable ride.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  10 місяців тому

      Yep, uninspiring, bland and a poor customer experience in my opinion. I've enjoyed many more scenic journeys in both the republic and the UK. Your opinion is different, no problem with that and I hope you have many more great trips on this route.

    • @colmreilly8779
      @colmreilly8779 8 місяців тому

      Should have been sitting on the side of the train facing east, towards the sea.

  • @EvanCleary
    @EvanCleary 2 роки тому +2

    The Enterprise train is the BEST TRAIN EVER!!!!

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому

      I don’t know Evan, there’s got to be some comparisons here and I can tell you it’s nowhere near Avanti West Coast, LNER or even GWR when it comes to all aspects of long distance rail travel in the British Isles, let alone continental Europe. Absolutely nowhere near them.

    • @EvanCleary
      @EvanCleary 2 роки тому +1

      Haha. My son actually wrote the comment. He really loves the Enterprise unconditionally.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      @@EvanCleary haha, no worries mate. Sounds like you’re going to be busy taking him on trains for a few years then 😂

    • @edwardferrin5993
      @edwardferrin5993 2 роки тому

      You can't compare Irish Rail/Enterprise services with GB trains. Firstly, Irish Railways has been grossly underfunded (particularly in Northern Ireland). That is slowly being revised but the focus is mainly on upgrading suburban rail in Dublin and Belfast. I love the DD sets on the Enterprise...have always loved the Enterprise since I was 8 years old. It is slow, it can be overcrowded and it can have poorly priced tickets. Looking ahead...there needs to be a non-stop Enterprise each way once a day to get journey times below 2 hours, the Cork Mk 4 sets should help bring in more services and the track outside Belfast should be upgraded, change the DART schedule to avoid a traffic jam at Connolly and tilting trains be built in the coming years for the Enterprise. It will be sad to see the DDs and Mk 4 sets be scrapped one day!

  • @SoldierCivilWarYT
    @SoldierCivilWarYT Рік тому

    At 6:42 you can hear the scariest sound on earth 🤐

  • @gemmarie7683
    @gemmarie7683 2 роки тому +1

    Blimey that's terrible. I thought TFW were bad. Have you put a formal complaint into the company?

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      Well, it’s just one of those things, I felt an honest review was required but no I don’t think it warrants a complaint tbh, it’s just not the best train in the world imo. Win some, lose some 😊👍

  • @janer2709
    @janer2709 2 роки тому +1

    It is poor and disappointing Mark. Scott from Planes, Trains, Everything had the same bad experience a few weeks ago on that route. Most people I know take the express bus. The domestic services are good. Come back and do the Belfast - Derry route, train one way and return by bus over the Glenshane Pass.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      Hi Jane, I’ve seen one or two of Scott’s videos but nothing recent tbh - I’ll have to give it a watch. Good to know I’m not the only one who was disappointed. I actually booked a flight out to Belfast with Flybe the other day and was looking for some ideas. A few people have suggested the train to Derry now so I might well do it. Hadn’t thought about the bus back but that’s a great idea - thanks 👍

    • @janer2709
      @janer2709 2 роки тому +1

      The bus and train both go from the Europa / Great Victoria Street station and they also both go from the transport hub in Derry.

    • @simonc7947
      @simonc7947 2 роки тому +1

      One thing I remember from Londonderry is that the Pay and Display machines in the car parks took Sterling and Euros. If you're in that area, the Giant's Causeway is worth a visit.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому

      @@simonc7947 Cheers Simon. I never made it as far as the Giants Causeway this time but I will be back. As always, there’s never enough time to do everything!

  • @railvlogger1439
    @railvlogger1439 2 роки тому +1

    Do you really need catering on a two hour journey? You certainly won't get it on a bus.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому

      I don’t but, ordinarily, they have proper catering on this train.

  • @TravelSignal
    @TravelSignal 2 роки тому +1

    Shame about the service. I wonder if there's a "stopping" train you could take, even if you do need to change at the border?

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      There might have been? I booked this in advance, otherwise the price would’ve been more - not sure if a local service would have been cheaper? Because I was flying out of DUB, when I got to Dublin Connolly, I had to walk to some random bus stop to find a coach to the airport - that was another €8 something!! Of course, the air coach from Belfast stops at DUB first so another reason to take the coach next time 😂

    • @EvanCleary
      @EvanCleary 2 роки тому

      There isn’t a direct stopper

  • @hoof2001
    @hoof2001 2 роки тому +1

    Bit crap. Share the driving haha

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      Hi John, yep ‘underwhelming’ I think might have been a better word. I reckon coach next time (if there is one) but yeh, I’m sure most travel by road one way or the other 👍

  • @davidcorbett62
    @davidcorbett62 2 роки тому +1

    Sorry your experience wasn’t that good. I travel on it about 3 times a year and never had a problem, luck of the draw.
    You mentioned the Ni stations, now you have to understand that any mention of railways in the North brings our politicians ( if you could even call them that) into a rash. In fact in the 60,s they tried to get rid of all the Norths railways by doing a report called the Benson report. ( similar to the one done by the fat ugly ici man) Luckily he had quite a few more brain cells than they all combined and some railways where kept, but they proceeded to demolish most of the stations and replace them with modern structures with all the architecture features of a porta loo.

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +1

      Hi David yes thanks for the info here which was very interesting (I never knew NI had a ‘beeching type’.) I was really disappointed with the Enterprise and the day before I’d been on the service up to Portrush (see my other video for that) which was great. Some of the stations (like Coleraine) were really nice AND the train had a trolley service! Going back to the Enterprise, if I was heading from Belfast to Dublin airport (which is quite likely for me) I would take the coach in future. Comparable price and times. Of course I missed a trick here because when we got into Connolly, I had to mess around walking/searching in the rain for the air coach to the airport and that cost me another 8 euros. I learnt a lot on this trip 😂 All the best, Mark

  • @DART25
    @DART25 2 роки тому

    Most of these bad occurrences happened because of covid 😅

    • @DART25
      @DART25 2 роки тому

      Such as the catering issues and the staff

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому

      Though at the time I travelled TOC’s like LNER, GWR, Avanti all had full catering back. Even Translink had a trolley!

  • @EireEigthyFour
    @EireEigthyFour Рік тому +1

    Mask 🙄😂

  • @meiriongwril9696
    @meiriongwril9696 2 роки тому +2

    They're not separate countries - one country awaiting unification

    • @mickfromleitrim
      @mickfromleitrim 2 роки тому +2

      Careful now

    • @LetsMakeaTrip
      @LetsMakeaTrip  2 роки тому +2

      ‘Owaysis or Blorr’

    • @PC-vg8vn
      @PC-vg8vn 2 роки тому +1

      They're separate countries until or if that happens. That's the reality. I wouldnt hold your breath.

    • @ST-ur7oh
      @ST-ur7oh Рік тому

      Fantasy 32 🎉🤪🤪

    • @STNW1956
      @STNW1956 Рік тому

      Correct. There is no such country as Northern Ireland. The country is Ireland.