Key stakeholders across Belfast have expressed their collective support for a fresh public engagement campaign designed to promote Translink's late-night Metro services.

The Late Night Services pilot programme runs throughout 2026, operating across Belfast on Friday and Saturday nights. Buses depart between midnight and 2am on major Metro routes. This week, representatives from the city's political, cultural, and commercial sectors gathered to back the initiative, which aims to increase awareness of the extended travel hours ahead of a busy summer schedule.

To launch the campaign, an interactive, custom-built mobile Metro bus installation was unveiled at City Hall. The portable attraction will visit high-footfall areas and prominent locations across Belfast, offering an engaging platform for the public to discover late-night travel options and the advantages of public transport.

Featuring a distinct pink livery, the installation will also be deployed at major local events and festivals, including Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in August, to connect attendees with safe, reliable transport during high-demand evenings.

Ian Campbell, Director of Service Operations at Translink, stated: "Strong collective support for extended late night public transport on Friday and Saturday nights is key to the success of this pilot. We're delighted to have key partners help us launch our new interactive Metro installation, encouraging people to use the service at key events and venues across the city and giving people a simple and engaging way to see how it can help make Belfast better connected after dark. We're also grateful for the support of the Northern Ireland Executive, Belfast City Council and our city partners in helping us deliver this year-long pilot." Deputy Lord Mayor of Belfast, Councillor Paul Doherty, remarked: "We're delighted to back this initiative to increase more awareness of Translink's late night services programme over the summer. Having longer public transport hours on Friday and Saturday nights is fantastic news for our residents and visitors to key events in the city like Fleadh Cheoil na hÉireann in August. It supports safer journeys home, greater accessibility, sustainable travel and a thriving night-time economy in Belfast."

Rachael McGuickin, Deputy CEO and Director of Business Development, Sustainability and Transformation at Visit Belfast, added: "Belfast is brimming with opportunities, and the introduction of extended late-night bus services represents a significant step forward for our tourism sector. This enhanced provision empowers both residents and visitors to fully experience the rich array of restaurants, venues, and events our city has to offer. Such connectivity is essential for a city to thrive, cultivating a vibrant nightlife and reinforcing Belfast's reputation as a warm, dynamic, and world-class destination. This initiative not only enhances accessibility but also encourages social and economic growth, showcasing our commitment to creating an inclusive and engaging environment for all."

Belfast City Centre Night Czar, Michael Stewart, commented: "These extended services are a welcome boost for Belfast's night-time economy, giving people more choice, better access and a safer way to travel home after enjoying the city in the evening.

"It's encouraging to see strong support for the service, and I'd urge people to use it so we can build the case for making late-night public transport a permanent part of Belfast's offer if you don't use it, you'll lose it."

Commuters utilising the late-night options can take advantage of the standard Metro £4 all-day ticket. Passengers are encouraged to plan their trips in advance by checking the Translink Journey Planner app for real-time schedule information.

In addition to the Metro routes, late-night bus and coach links are available connecting Belfast to Derry~Londonderry, Newry, Banbridge, Dungannon, Ballyclare, Crumlin, Templepatrick, Newcastle, Ballynahinch, Downpatrick, and Carryduff. These specific regional connections depart exclusively from Belfast Grand Central Station, where standard fares apply and both full-fare and half-fare concessionary passes remain valid.

Further details regarding specific timetables and pricing structures can be found by visiting translink.co.uk/latenightservices.