North of England by Rail

Arriving into Manchester Airport (or London), hop aboard the trains and make your way to the charming city of Chester. Wander the cobbled streets city to discover the many historic sites including the medieval City walls, gate towers and clock towers. Head to the stunning excavated Roman Amphitheatre, Britain’s largest, for a flavour of life in Roman England before visiting the impressive cathedral. A highlight will be a stroll along the unique Tudor Facaded The Rows, offering some unique boutique shopping.

Overnight: Chester

Journey details: 20 minutes from Manchester Airport, followed by 1 hour 5 minutes to Chester (approx.)*

A short rail journey from Chester you’ll find the thriving city of Liverpool. Explore this maritime city from its two epic cathedrals (one Anglican and one Catholic) to the UNESCO heritage buildings at the famous Albert Docks, now home to cultural attractions including the Liver Buildings, the Merseyside Maritime Museum and the Tate Art Gallery. Liverpool is also the Birthplace of the Beatles and is brimming with heritage sites connected to the "Fab Four" including Matthews Street, the Cavern Club, Penny Lane and The Beatles Story Exhibition and pop museum.

Overnight: Chester

Meals: Breakfast included

This morning board the train for a journey west over the Yorkshire Dales crossing the border to into the rustic landscapes of Cumbria. Arriving in the beautiful market town of Windermere on the shores of the famous Lake Windermere make your way to your hotel to drop your bags. Spend the afternoon exploring this charming lakeside town – wander the local boutiques, visit The World of Beatrix Potter exhibition, hike along the shores of the lake or take a private boat or leisurely cruise along on the tranquil waters of Lake Windermere.

Overnight: Bowness-on-Windermere

Meals: Breakfast included

Journey details: 2 hours 30 minutes (approx.)*

Today is dedicated to exploring the rugged landscapes of the Lake District with a local guide on a small-group tour of this spectacular region. Your journey will take you off the beaten track over mountain passes, through deep valleys and passing sparkling lakes. Along the way you’ll stop at one or more the traditional Lakeland towns or villages such as Grasmere or Keswick and take in some of the region’s most iconic spots such as Borrowdale Valley, Thirlmere and Castlerigg Stone Circle. The highlight will be an included boat trip on one of the lakes itself.

Overnight: Bowness-on-Windermere

Meals: Breakfast included

Hop on the train and head east through the rustic landscapes of the Yorkshire Dales to York. This historic city is home to a wealth of historic and cultural sites to explore; wander the city from the cobbles of the famous Shambles (Britain’s first shopping street) to the medieval city walls, gates and towers. The highlight of course will be exploring the Gothic masterpiece at the iconic York Minster which dominates the city and marks York as the ecclesiastical capital of the North of England.

Overnight: York

Meals: Breakfast included

Journey details: 3 hours 30 minutes (approx.)*

Today explore magnificent York in more depth; discover the city’s Viking history at the Jorvik Center, visit the opulent Georgian era townhouse at Fairfax House or see the Flying Scotsman itself at the National Railway Museum. A short train ride from York you’ll find the elegant Victorian spa town of Harrogate where you can shop in classic boutiques or take afternoon tea in one of the town’s many traditional tea-rooms. Alternatively enjoy an optional small group day-tour to either the Yorkshire Dales or Yorkshire Moors National Parks – subject to availability.

Overnight: York

Meals: Breakfast included

Today bid farewell to the UK as you board the train taking you back to Manchester and Manchester Airport for your departure flight. Alternatively, you may choose to head South to London or North to Edinburgh on the Highspeed East Coast mainline.

Meals: Breakfast included