Nine riders, three cities, one unforgettable weekend—this latest adventure from the RoSPA East Kilbride group had all the makings of a classic road trip: early starts, stunning coastal routes, unpredictable weather, and plenty of laughs along the way.

Wheels Up at Dawn (…for some)

The trip kicked off bright and early on Friday, with part of the group rolling out to catch the 8am ferry from Cairnryan Ferry Terminal across to Larne. Meanwhile, a slightly more relaxed trio opted for the lunchtime sailing—proof that even within a disciplined riding group, there’s room for different interpretations of “early start.”

Riders had travelled in from Glasgow, Edinburgh, and even as far as Birmingham, all converging on the same goal: a weekend of riding, camaraderie, and exploration.

Coastal Roads and Irish Charm

Once reunited on Irish soil, the group made their way north toward their base in Portrush, soaking in some of the most scenic routes Northern Ireland has to offer. The journey wasn’t rushed—far from it. Stops along the way included the picturesque villages of Cushendall and Ballycastle, before passing through Bushmills, home to its world-famous distillery (though sadly, no sampling mid-ride!).

By the time they reached Portrush, spirits were high and stories were already beginning to stack up.

Breakfast, Bikes, and a Legend

Saturday kicked off with a ride to the Ballymoney British Legion Club, where the Armoy Motorcycle Road Racing Club had laid on a full cooked breakfast—fuel for both bikes and riders—served with a side of warm hospitality.

Next stop: the Joey Dunlop Exhibition, a fitting tribute to one of motorcycling’s greatest legends. For a group passionate about riding, it was a meaningful and memorable visit.

Four Seasons in One Day

The weather, true to form, kept things interesting. Clear skies gave way to heavy showers, which then melted into low mist—adding a touch of drama to an already stunning ride.

The route took the group through Derry, across to Buncrana, and onward to Malin Head—Ireland’s most northerly point. There, they found an equally notable landmark: Farren`s Bar Ireland’s most northerly bar, the perfect spot for a well-earned lunch.

From there, it was on to Greencastle to catch the ferry across to Magilligan Point, before completing the loop back to Portrush.

Food, Stories, and Sunday Roads

Saturday evening saw the group gathered around the table at a local Indian restaurant—sharing stories, reliving the day’s highlights, and no doubt debating the “best road” of the trip.

Sunday brought one final ride, a relaxed loop around Northern Ireland’s coastal towns before heading back to Larne for the ferry home. No rush this time—just a chance to soak in the last few miles of what had been an exceptional weekend.

Another One for the Books

With engines cooled and bikes back on home soil, one thing was clear: this was another brilliant RoSPA social trip. New friendships strengthened, old ones rekindled, and plenty of memories made—exactly what these weekends are all about.

Same again next year? You wouldn’t bet against it.

Special thanks to Stan, Stan the Beemer Man (if he’s not buying bikes he’s buying gear for his bikes), Ex-XL Steve, Baz the Barterer (he never pays full price), Tarmac Tony (enough said), Del Boy the Cool Cruiser, Tony (he’s not as scary as he looks) The Gunn, Peter the Pause Button, Graeme The Overnight Earthquake (7.2 on the richter scale), and last but not least an extra special thanks to Jen, The Trip Planner, Turn Panicker (she can plan a 500 mile trip but not a 30‑degree bend). Only joking Jen, thanks for all your hard work in organising the trip.

Check out our Facebook page to keep up to date with all the planned social trips and outings.