We’re all looking forward to the time when travel is allowed more freely across the UK. Need some inspiration for when the time comes? Here are a few unique destinations and awesome experiences across the TransPennine Express network which should definitely be on your bucket list.
Count the Fab Four among your favourite musicians of all time? We don’t blame you. Luckily, it’s not difficult to have a city break that’s entirely themed around the Beatles. Liverpool is where the group grew up and met, as well as the inspiration behind many of their song titles.
Start your tour by strolling down pretty Penny Lane and through leafy Calderstones Park to stand outside the iconic Strawberry Fields. Later, head back into the city centre to visit the interactive Beatles Story museum and enjoy a live music show at the world-famous Cavern Club.
If Scotland’s bonny capital has long been on your bucket list, 2021 could be the year you finally make it (once restrictions are lifted). As well as the city’s grand Royal Mile and impressive historic castles, it’s also the location of a dormant volcano.
Arthur’s Seat sits just outside the city centre and is a prime hiking spot in Scotland. Wind your way up the peak’s pathways on a clear day to soak up spectacular views across the entire city and all the way out to sea.
Perhaps the pinnacle of hiking routes in the UK is the 84-mile-long Hadrian’s Wall trail. It couldn’t be easier to hop on the World Heritage listed trail from Carlisle, once the time is right to explore the UK again.
The capital of Cumbria sits just south of the wall and is the perfect place to set off on a short walk or longer multi-day trek. While you’re in the city, why not also check out Carlisle Castle? Dating back to the 11th century, it’s been the site of numerous fearsome battles and famous historic events over the years.
There are plenty of reasons to place York on your 2021 bucket list once we can all travel again. The ancient city is one of the prettiest places to visit in the UK thanks to its network of cobbled streets and tapestry of heritage sites dating back to Roman times.
The Shambles is a must-see in York and only minutes from the train station by foot. Thought to be one of the oldest streets in England, it boasts overhanging timber-framed buildings and tiny alleyways known as snickelways which house independent shops and charming cafés.
Manchester is well-known for a number of things, from its lively music scene to its industrial heritage, but one of its major links is undeniably football.
Footy fans will definitely want to check out the National Football Museum, one of the only museums of its kind on the planet. You could also take a guided tour of Old Trafford or the Etihad or even stay the night in a football-themed hotel at the aptly named Hotel Football.
Newcastle is one of the North’s most iconic cities and the perfect place to soak up some cool industrial architecture, including the bridges which cross the River Tyne.
You can either walk or cycle across the space-age Millennium Bridge, and it is by far the most eye-catching. Curving in a semi-circle across the water and beautifully illuminated at night.
If you’re planning to visit Hull once restrictions are lifted, it’s a city packed with history, including being the birthplace of William Wilberforce.
The 18th century politician and philanthropist famously led the movement to end slavery in Britain. Visit his Grade I listed childhood home, Wilberforce House, in the heart of Hull and learn about his fascinating life and important achievements. Afterwards, why not venture down to the Humber riverfront to view over 3,000 marine species in The Deep aquarium?
While you may not be able to head up to Glasgow for a city break right now, that doesn’t mean you can’t plan for one when the time is right. Scotland’s second city is teeming with creative attractions where you can admire works by both old masters and more contemporary artists. Make your way to the Gallery of Modern Art to view cutting-edge exhibitions from local and international artists.
From there, head to Glasgow’s elegant West End neighbourhood. It’s the home of the incredible Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum where you can tour 22 galleries brimming with weird and wonderful objects and artworks.
Feeling inspired? Get ready to plan an unforgettable day trip or city break to one of these amazing locations once the government restrictions are lifted and we can all enjoying exploring the UK again. Remember – when the time is right – you should book train tickets in advance online to save money and time. And why not download the TPExpress App and enjoy loads of free TV programmes, films and magazines on Exstream when you travel with us.
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