5 Day Trips to take from Manchester on the Train

Southport

Not only is Southport home to the second largest pier in England, the sandy beach is the perfect place to catch some rays (if we do get any more sunshine this Summer!) and relax away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

No sunshine? Southport is still a great place to visit, spend the day immersing yourself in culture at The Atkinson, check out the free interactive Alice in Wonderland exhibition which is on until the 7^thSeptember.

Trains from Victoria Station start from 1 hour 8 minutes and cost from £8.70

The Atkinson: https://www.theatkinson.co.uk/

Bolton Food & Drink Festival

23^rd– 25^thAugust

The Bolton Food & Drink Festival is back this August bank holiday weekend. Learn top tips from celeb chefs like Gregg Wallace and James Martin, tuck into local grub at the markets, or indulge in a gin and rum masterclass. Truly one for the foodies, but foodie or not expect to be full by the end of the day.

Train from Victoria: about 25 mins, £4.40

Free to attend, with ticketing for specific events, more info here: https://www.boltonfoodanddrinkfestival.com/

Hebden Bridge

This quirky town is known for its antique markets and independent shops. Great for a spot of shopping and picking up that key piece or two for your apartment. We love Spirals, a shop filled with handmade, eco-friendly goodies, from Fairtrade rugs and furniture to original art by local artists.  You can spend all day strolling around this gorgeous town, which is steeped in literary history and super Instagrammable.

Train from Victoria: 35 mins at £10.30

Find out more here: http://www.hebdenbridge.co.uk/tourist-info/index.html

Spirals is based on Market Street and is open from 10am-5.30pm Mon-Sat and 11am-5pm on Sundays.

Hope Valley

If you’re adventure-orientated, why not head to the hills and take a hike in this beautiful region of the Peak District. Plan your route, ending up either atop of the tallest peak Kinder Scout, the stunning Mam Tor, or down The Old Nag’s Head pub for a well-deserved pint and roast dinner.

Train from Victoria: 1 hour 20 mins, £12.10

The Old Nags Head: https://www.dorbiere.co.uk/the-old-nags-head/

Blackpool Pleasure Beach

For the young at heart, relive your childhood at the best theme park the North West has to offer. There’s no shortage of thrills at the home of the tallest rollercoaster in the UK.  If you can wait until the autumn months, there’s the Blackpool Illuminations. Grab some fish and chips (after, not before braving The Big Dipper) and enjoy the light show.

Train from Victoria: 1 hour 30mins, £18.20

Advance tickets £23 – £25 https://www.blackpoolpleasurebeach.com/prices/

* Please note, we’ve included the standard, off-peak train ticket cost, but if you’re super-savvy you can buy advance tickets which could save you up to 60% off the standard price.