Did you know it’s cheaper to travel by train with your mates? Not to mention more fun. Our special offer for groups provides a guaranteed 33% off train tickets when 3 to 9 of you travel together. To celebrate, we’ve rounded up some of the best days out for groups across our network, including Manchester’s Christmas Markets, going underground in Newcastle and chocolate galore in York. So why not get on the group chat and suggest a day out with a difference?
With over 300 stalls and chalets spread out across the city, Manchester’s Christmas Markets have enough to keep you going for a week, let alone a single day. Whether you want to pick up a few Christmas pressies or pick up another Dutch waffle (no judgement here), the markets are a top place to catch up and get into the festive spirit together.
Elsewhere across the city, Santa’s grotto will be setting up shop in the Arndale Centre, or you could take to the ice rink and test your skating skills.
We don’t mean partying with the Geordie Shore lot; this day out takes you underground to explore the Victoria Tunnel, which runs beneath Newcastle, from Town Moor down to the Tyne.
This hidden network was built in 1842 to transport coal down to the riverside, ready for loading onto ships. In 1939, it was converted into an air-raid shelter to protect hundreds of Newcastle citizens during World War II. Pretty cool, right?
The Tunnel is open all year round and you can even book onto a guided tour, which includes fantastic sound and visual effects.
The Albert Docks in Liverpool isn’t just home to some great bars, restaurants and the Echo Arena; it has several incredible museums all within a short walk of one another.
The Merseyside Maritime Museum is the place to learn about the port of Liverpool, which was once one of the most important trading cities in the world. Within the same building you’ll find the International Slavery Museum, which is the first of its kind in the world. Immersive exhibitions and storytelling reveal the deep and permanent impact of slavery and the slave trade on Africa, South America, the USA, Caribbean and Western Europe.
Alpamare is a new waterpark located a short bus ride away from Scarborough train station. It’s packed with waterslides and multiple pools, including an iodine one overlooking the North Bay. There are food and drink facilities at the park too, so you can grab a quick bite in-between catching waves.
Standing proud above York, Clifford Tower is almost all that remains of York Castle and offers unrivalled, panoramic views over the city. Raised by William the Conqueror, there’s plenty of history to get stuck into as you climb to the top, before walking the walls and looking out over the city below.
If chocolate is more your taste, make tracks to York’s Chocolate Story, which is in the heart of the historic Minster Quarter. Tuck into the stories behind the greatest names in chocolate and delve into the secrets behind how the sweet stuff is made. You may even get to enjoy a taster or two along the way!
Which day out takes your fancy? Don't forget to share your photos and stories with us over social @TPExpressTrains #wherenext