A city/country break packed with highlights throughout. From a lovely hotel we tour the Dales finding steam aplenty, include the finest transport festival in the north, and enjoy a luxury train ride on the Settle and Carlisle Railway.
At around about lunchtime we will meet up Wakefield Westgate and travel to the outskirts of Leeds for private arrangements at the Middleton Railway. Refreshments, a steam ride with photographic opportunities, a look around the museum and behind the scenes will all feature. Great fun with some very friendly friends before we journey north and check in at the Midland Hotel.
A quintessentially Yorkshire day awaits. We leave Bradford by rail and ride around Ilkley Moor to…Ilkley! A short transfer takes us into Skipton for a relaxing cruise on the Leeds/Liverpool Canal. Then, it’s an afternoon of steam courtesy of the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway. Armed with rover tickets and itinerary suggestions you can make the most of the afternoon and visit the line’s various attractions. With something to see at every station this is up there amongst the best preserved railways in the land.
Today, we dedicate to the wonderful Settle/Carlisle Railway. This is surely the most scenic railway route in England with rolling upland scenery, dry-stone walls, farmsteads, and the awesome Ribblehead Viaduct. We are going to do it in style and full-length using the fabulous Staycation Express. This is a refurbished HST set (a proper train) that has been kitted out throughout with reclining, first-class, leather seats and full catering facilities on board. There should also be enough time to explore the streets of Carlisle and, perhaps, visit the Cathedral - an awesome day out!
How’s this for something unusual and interesting. We are planning to arrive at opening time for the 2022 Newby Hall Transport Extravaganza. Hundreds of vintage cars on show, trade stands and refreshment facilities. But not just that, there is a miniature steam train, the extensive tended grounds and the period rooms in the Hall itself are a delight. Whilst most of the day will be spent here, there should be time for a little “extra” surprise on the way back to Bradford.
Our final morning and, after a fairly busy few days, we’re just going to have a little potter around to see some local sights. We’ll take a morning stroll to the famous three and five rise locks in Bingley and drop in at the stunning model town that is Saltaire. Homeward bound journeys commence from Bradford Stations at around lunchtime.
Steam on a former Yorkshire branch-line with attractions at every intermediate station. Great fun and something for everyone.
A railway steeped in industrial history. Not just a steam train ride (under the M1) but a super museum and the best cup of tea in Yorkshire.
7 1/4 " gauge line running through extensive gardens and alongside a river.
Not a preserved line, but England's most iconic rail journey.
One of our favourite hotels and it’s easy to see why. Located right outside Bradford Forster Square Station this is a traditional “railway” hotel. High ceilings, chandeliers, an original wood panelled ramp to the station, fine food and spacious comfy rooms – what more can we say!