Overview
Coleraine (Irish: Cúil Rathain, meaning “nook of the ferns”) sits at the narrowest bridgeable point of the River Bann, a geographic feature that naturally shaped it into a historic market town and transport hub. Today, it serves as the principal town of County Londonderry and a lively base for visitors exploring the Causeway Coastal Route. The pedestrian-friendly centre revolves around The Diamond, a paved square framed by the sandstone Town Hall and the Visitor Information Centre. Just across the river, Anderson Park and the Phoenix Peace Fountain offer a calm riverside escape, while the nearby university campus injects a steady stream of contemporary culture and student energy into the streets.
History
Archaeological digs at Mountsandel Fort have uncovered evidence of human activity dating back to 7,600–7,900 BC, making this the site of Ireland’s oldest known settlement. The town’s Gaelic name comes from a 9th-century account in the Tripartite Life of Saint Patrick, which records the saint being offered a fern-overgrown plot of ground by a local chieftain.
During the Plantation of Ulster in the early 17th century, the Honourable Irish Society laid out a fortified street pattern that still defines the town centre’s layout. Coleraine later weathered the Williamite wars and experienced significant growth in the 19th century following the arrival of the railway in 1855 and the development of a busy river port. The opening of the New University of Ulster (now Ulster University) in 1968 transformed the area into a modern university town, adding academic institutions, performance venues, and a younger demographic to the historic streets.
What to See & Do
- Mountsandel Fort & Forest Walk – Ireland’s earliest known settlement features Mesolithic stone tools alongside a later Norman-era earthwork. The 2.5 km circular trail from the forest car park follows the riverbank, offering excellent birdwatching and largely level, dog-friendly paths.
- The Diamond & Town Hall – The Victorian Town Hall (1859) houses the Visitor Information Centre and hosts the monthly Causeway Specialty Market. The surrounding square is pedestrian-only, making it ideal for a relaxed stroll or a quick coffee.
- St Patrick’s Church (Church of Ireland) – Directly tied to the town’s founding legend, this church was remodelled by Sir Thomas Drew in the 1880s and features notable stained-glass windows and historic architecture.
- Riverside Theatre – One of Northern Ireland’s oldest professional theatres, located on the university campus. The programme runs year-round with drama, comedy, musical performances, and youth workshops.
- Jet Centre – A family-focused indoor entertainment complex featuring ten-pin bowling, multiple cinema screens, a pool hall, arcade, and the “Alley Cats” indoor climbing play-park.
- Coleraine FC & Motorsport – The Showgrounds hosts IFA Premiership football matches. Every May, the town becomes a key section of the North West 200 road race circuit, drawing international motorsport fans.
- Nearby Highlights – Coleraine is a convenient launchpad for the coast. The Giant’s Causeway is roughly 25 minutes away by bus, while Mussenden Temple and the Downhill Demesne sit just 10 minutes north. Within the immediate area, you can also explore the historic earthworks at Ballyscullion, the medieval Brackfield Bawn, the scenic Broharris Canal walk, the River Faughan valley, and the wildlife-rich Roe Estuary Nature Reserve.
Nature & Outdoor Activities
The surrounding countryside offers a range of walks suitable for families, dog owners, and casual hikers. Beyond the popular Mountsandel Forest loop, shorter routes along the River Bann and through Anderson Park provide gentle riverside strolls. Birdwatchers frequently spot kingfishers, herons, ospreys, and wintering waders at the Roe Estuary, while the River Bann is a well-known venue for salmon and trout fishing. Most public parks and woodland trails have free parking and basic picnic facilities.
Events & Festivals
Coleraine maintains a busy cultural calendar year-round. Key annual events include:
- Causeway Specialty Market – Held on the second Saturday of each month in The Diamond, featuring local crafts, artisan food, and seasonal produce.
- North West 200 (May) – The world-renowned road racing event routes through the town, transforming the streets into a spectator zone.
- SuperCupNI (Summer) – An international youth football tournament that draws teams from across Europe and beyond.
- Summer Magic – A series of outdoor performances, workshops, and family activities hosted by the Roe Valley and Flowerfield Arts Centres, running through the warmer months.
- Armed Forces Day – Typically held in April, featuring military displays, community stalls, and local business engagement.
All major events are coordinated and promoted by the Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council.
Practical Information
Getting There
- Rail – Coleraine station is on the Belfast–Derry line with hourly services. A branch line connects directly to the university campus and continues to Portrush (approximately 15 minutes).
- Bus – The Goldline 218 links Belfast and Coleraine (around 1 hour 45 minutes). Ulsterbus routes 134/234 serve Limavady and the university, while route 140 runs every 20 minutes on weekdays between Coleraine, Portstewart, and Portrush.
- Car – The town sits on the A26/A29 corridor. Ample on-street and off-street parking is available in the centre and at the Riverside Car Park.
- Air – Belfast International Airport (≈55 miles) and City of Derry Airport (≈30 miles) offer domestic and European connections, both reachable by car or coach.
Opening Hours & Admission
- Mountsandel Fort & Walk – Free entry. The car park and trail are accessible Monday and Sunday, 09:00–17:00.
- Town Hall & Visitor Centre – Free entry. Open weekdays 09:00–17:00.
- Riverside Theatre & Jet Centre – Ticket prices vary by event and attraction. Check their respective websites for seasonal schedules.
Parking & Accessibility
Free on-street parking is available on the main roads surrounding The Diamond, with pay-and-display metres operating Monday–Saturday, 08:00–18:00. The Riverside Car Park offers 150 spaces at a modest hourly rate, and the Mountsandel Forest car park is free for walkers. The Mountsandel car park and main footpaths are level and wheelchair-friendly, though the steep descent to the riverbank at the fort site is not. The Town Hall, Riverside Theatre, and Jet Centre all provide step-free access and accessible toilets.
Useful Contacts & Climate
- Tourist Information Centre (The Diamond) – 028 9082 3207. Open weekdays 09:00–17:00.
- Causeway Coast & Glens Borough Council – Handles event programming, community facilities, and local tourism information.
Coleraine has a maritime climate with cool summers and mild winters. Rainfall is highest in October and lowest in May, but Atlantic weather shifts quickly. Pack a light waterproof layer for coastal walks, and plan your visit around the second Saturday of the month to catch the local specialty market on The Diamond.