Translink encourages shoppers to make Christmas travel easy with Park and Ride

Translink is encouraging Christmas shoppers across Northern Ireland to take the stress out of festive travel this year by taking full advantage of its extensive Park and Ride network.

As thousands head into towns and city centres for shopping, dining and seasonal events, the transport operator says its Park and Ride sites provide a simple, affordable and congestion-free alternative to battling heavy traffic in the run-up to Christmas.

Many sites will operate extended timetables throughout December, allowing travellers additional flexibility for late-night shopping and festive outings. With regular service intervals, passengers can quickly reach their destination without the worry of navigating busy roads or struggling to find parking.

To help streamline travel, Translink is offering convenient contactless payment options on board, at Ticket Vending Machines and through its MLink app. This provides faster boarding, shorter queues and a smoother overall journey during the busiest shopping weeks of the year.

The operator is also encouraging passengers to make full use of its Journey Planner app for up-to-date timetables, route information and real-time service updates. Whether it’s a quick visit to the shops or a full day of festive fun, the app enables travellers to plan with confidence.

Ian Campbell, Director of Service Operations at Translink, said:

“We know Christmas can be a busy time, so our Park and Ride facilities are designed to make travel easier, more sustainable, and more enjoyable. By offering free convenient parking, frequent services, and simple payment options for bus and rail, we’re helping passengers focus on what matters, enjoying the festive season.”

With more than 60 Park and Ride sites and 10,000 free parking spaces available across Northern Ireland, Translink says it is committed to keeping festive travel convenient and accessible.

Key Belfast-area sites — including Ballymartin, Cairnshill, Dundonald, Blacks Road and Sprucefield — will operate extended opening hours throughout December.

Christmas Park & Ride Opening Hours (Belfast Area)

Ballymartin

24/7, Monday – Sunday

Cairnshill

24/7, Monday – Sunday

Dundonald

6am – Midnight, Monday – Friday

6am Saturday – 6am Monday

Black’s Road

6am – Midnight, Monday – Friday

Sprucefield

6am – 8pm, Monday – Friday

For full details on Park and Ride locations, timetables and festive travel updates, passengers can visit Translink’s Park and Ride webpage or download the Journey Planner app.