About
As part of the St. Patrick’s celebrations in Downpatrick, the Shamrock Express steams back into Downpatrick and County Down Railway, supported by Newry Mourne and Down District Council. As a special treat, this year we’ll be using our vintage Edwardian era carriage set, which normally stays in our gallery. These trains will be hauled by heritage single cab diesel loco No.124, which has proved very popular since its arrival last summer. It will be hauling 100+ year old carriages, so you can travel in style.
As is traditional for our St. Patrick’s Day trains, we’ll have musicians to create that festive atmosphere during most of the afternoon.
We strongly advise advance booking, as St Patrick’s Day can be a busy day in Downpatrick, though walk on tickets will be available if capacity allows.
It’s only a short walk from our station in Inch Abbey to the Cistercian monastery of Inch Abbey, where you can explore the historic ruins – and imagine you are in Game of Thrones too.
Our carriage gallery and museum will be open, where you can see everything from carriages and locomotives to old tickets and timetables. Hot drinks and nibbles are on sale in the buffet train at Inch Abbey.
Dates & times
This event is running on Tuesday 17 March 2026.
Trains depart from our Downpatrick station at: 12:00, 12:45, 14:15, 15:00, 15:45
The main parade enters the town centre around 13:30 and finishes in front of our station at around 14:00, so there’s a slight gap in the trains during that period.
Facilities
Parking & Transport
- Station nearby
Guide Prices
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Concession | £10.00 per ticket |
| Adults (18+) | £11.00 per ticket |
| Child (4+) | £9.00 per ticket |
| Child (under 4) | Free |
| Family saver ticket (2 adults + 3 kids) | £40.00 per ticket |
Fares
Adults (18+): £11
Child (4+): £9
Child (under 4): free
Family saver ticket (2 adults + 3 kids): £40
Concession: £10
Carers for paying adult requiring assistance: Free – please see our carers policy here
