History of Belfast Transport: Trams & Trolleys

As you ride the modern, low-emission sightseeing bus, you are treading the same paths as the famous red trams and trolleybuses of yesteryear.

The Era of the Tram

Before 1954, Belfast was a city of trams. They were the lifeline of the shipyard workers.

• Did you know? Belfast once had a huge network of electric trams. You can see restored examples at the Ulster Folk & Transport Museum (accessible via train/bus combo).

The Trolleybus Highlights

In the late 30s and 40s, trolleybuses took over. They ran on overhead wires but had rubber tires.

• Green Giants: They were often green and known for their rapid acceleration!
• Legacy: The overhead wires are long gone, but the wide roads in some parts of the city (like Eastwood) were designed to accommodate their turning circles.

The Modern Sightseeing Era

The concept of the "Red Open Top Tour" is newer but has become iconic. It repurposed the double-decker (which replaced the trolleybus) into a leisure vehicle. It symbolizes a Belfast that has moved from a closed, industrial city to an open, welcoming tourist destination.

A Citybus from 1968, showing how design has evolved.