Start Your Year with a Wellness Kick

It's safe to say that 2020 was a challenging year.

Whether you subscribe to the “New Year, New You” ethos or you just want to dedicate a little extra time to your own wellbeing, having a relaxing day to yourself could be exactly what you need to start 2021.

Luckily, there are plenty of cities across the TransPennine Express network where you can easily reaffirm your wellness goals and get yourself back on track. If you’re in one of the following cities, why not make the most of wellness opportunities on offer?

Indulge in some downtime in Liverpool

History-packed Liverpool may be known for its buzzing nightlife scene and fabulous museums, but it’s also a wonderful location for a little relaxation. Why not start by giving yourself an endorphin boost with a run, cycle or leisurely stroll around Sefton Park? The leafy green space sits just south of the city centre and is a gorgeous spot to clear your head and enjoy some fresh air.

If all that exercise helps you build up an appetite, head back into Liverpool City Centre to trendy Bold Street. You’ll find loads of options for a healthy meal there, including Leaf that’s well-known for its wholesome menu and amazing herbal teas. Afterwards, the nearby Central Library is a lovely spot to while away a few hours. Why not settle down in the peaceful circular Picton Reading Room and get stuck into a good book?

Get in a good headspace in Glasgow

Glasgow is packed with brilliant art galleries and gorgeous green spaces perfect for more laidback and relaxing days.
 
For a few hours in the great outdoors, you’ll be spoilt for choice by Glasgow’s inner-city parks and wonderful waterside trails. Pollok Park is a popular pick thanks to its sheer size and range of sections. Run or cycle through woodland or enjoy a walk around the manicured gardens of Pollok House.

When your belly starts to rumble, head back into the city centre for lunch at one of Glasgow’s best-known vegan and veggie cafes. Locally-run Picnic is just a short distance from Glasgow Central station and ideal for brunch or lunch that’s mouth-wateringly tasty yet packed with goodness.

And, finally, an hour or so touring one of Glasgow’s galleries is sure to calm your mind. Kelvingrove Art Gallery and Museum has plenty to grab everyone’s interest, plus it’s just a short distance from the oasis that is Glasgow Botanic Gardens.

Soothe yourself with some sea air in Scarborough

If you feel most relaxed when you’re by the sea, Scarborough is a great spot for some quiet time.

Begin your day out by wandering down to South Bay beach. After enjoying views of the town and sea, set out along Marine Drive which takes you around the headland and past Scarborough Castle to North Bay. The wide walkway is perfect for a walk, run or cycle.

For something even more peaceful, why not settle down on a bench overlooking the ocean? If the water is particularly calm, you could hire paddle boards or kayaks and get out on the water! Once you’ve spent enough time on the beach, it’s only a short walk up the hill to Peasholm Park – a quiet haven with a small boating lake and Japanese-style gardens.

Feeling hungry? Loop back round towards the town centre and settle down at a table at Eat Me Café near the station. The cosy venue is well-known for filling and nutritious dishes which have an Asian-inspired twist. Tuck into a bowl of ramen or indulge in homemade mac and cheese which can be made vegan or gluten free.

Pamper yourself with a day in Leeds

Right in the heart of Yorkshire, Leeds is the perfect city for a day of wellness activities.

Get your running shoes on and enjoy a feel-good jog along Kirkstall Canal. The route begins in the city centre and takes you past 13 miles of lush countryside and attractive locks all the way to Shipley. You could also turn back halfway and return to Leeds for lunch at Eat Your Greens. The picture-perfect eatery is known for its farm to fork ethos. Its menu changes almost daily but is always delicious.

Once you’re full of wholesome grub, why not spend the afternoon relaxing at a spa? There are a range of options across the city. Enjoy a Thai massage at La Bella Spa or treat your skin with a facial at RMUK Hair Beauty Day Spa.



Want to carry on your wellness kick throughout 2021? Why not bear these places in mind for when the time is right for travel again? If you need to travel soon, book your tickets in advance on the TPExpress app and remember to keep safe on board by wearing a face covering and socially distancing from other passengers.