Ballyclare Bus Station isn't so much a bus station as a small-building-that-resembles-something-like-a-bus-station-but-isn't-quite-one. Much catchier, I'm sure you'll agree.
Since most of the buses (and these are a limited number anyway) coming in and out of Ballyclare are from Belfast, there isn't really a huge requirement for it to be any bigger. It's a modern enough building, which consists of a couple of toilets, a seating area, a vending machine (most the important part, I'm sure you'll agree), and an information point / ticket desk.
This sounds fair enough, but I noticed there wasn't any sign of life in that wee information area, nor were there any staff around the place whatsoever. When the ticket desk is about as useful as a chocolate teapot (in use), this does change the logistics somewhat. A prospective bus station becomes a sheltered seating area with a few (smelly) toilets and a vending machine. Not exactly top class, eh?
As a bus station, it leaves a lot to be desired (least of all a cleaner for those toilets, seriously). However, I was provided with a pleasant enough shelter from the wind, as well as a myriad of wasps so I'm not going to complain too much... read more