Enjoy a weekend away by rail this Mother’s Day

It’s almost that time of the year again when we all get ready to celebrate the most special woman in our lives. Yes, we’re talking about our Mums! This year, Mother’s Day falls on March 22nd. Tired of sending flowers and a nice card year after year? Consider treating her to a day trip or weekend away instead at one of the North’s top cities.

Hop on a TransPennine Express train to Edinburgh, York or Liverpool and get ready to indulge your Mum with an array of unique treats and activities. 

Mother’s Day in Edinburgh

The Scottish capital’s elegant buildings and endless attractions makes it the perfect place for an unforgettable staycation. As well as its fascinating royal heritage and world-class museums, Edinburgh is also home to a lively food and drink scene which you can easily take advantage of this Mother’s Day. Book train tickets to Edinburgh with Mum and make plans to:

Explore the Royal Mile

The beating heart of the city, the Royal Mile stretches all the way from Edinburgh Castle to Holyrood Palace. In addition to being lined with some of Edinburgh’s most famous attractions, you’ll also find plenty of smaller streets and charming alleyways off it where you can shop for trinkets, try local delicacies and take plenty of picture-perfect selfies with Mum.

Visit magical Edinburgh Castle

If Mum fancies herself as a bit of a history buff, Edinburgh couldn’t be more ideal. The top attraction in the city has to be the magnificent Edinburgh Castle which sits atop a volcanic peak named Castle Rock. It’s been a royal fortress since the 12th century and has witnessed numerous historic events over the centuries, from battles through to beheadings. Definitely worth a visit and we would recommend arriving in the morning for fewer crowds.

Admire amazing views from Arthur’s Seat

If either of you are fond of hiking, climbing up Arthur’s Seat is essential when in Edinburgh. It’s located in Holyrood Park and is actually the remains of an ancient volcano. Pathways wind up the sides of the mount and the summit offers up panoramic vistas of the entire city. If you’d prefer to soak up Edinburgh’s skyline without the trek, consider smaller Calton Hill at the top end of Princes Street Gardens.

Hop between museums

Edinburgh is no stranger to fantastic museums and galleries. Whether Mum is interested in learning about Scottish history or she loves looking at fine art, you’ll be spoilt for choice by cultural venues such as the Scottish National Gallery and The Writers’ Museum. What’s more, most are completely free to enter!

Enjoy a gin tasting at a local distillery

G+T Mum’s drink of choice? Edinburgh has a reputation for creating fantastic botanical tipples. Why not book a tasting tour at a local distillery like Edinburgh Gin in the West End or Pickering’s Gin in Newington?

Mother’s Day in York

The capital of Yorkshire and arguably one of the most beautiful cities in the UK, weekends away in York never fail to thrill. The city’s history dates all the way back to Roman times and it’s packed with gorgeous heritage sites and unique shops. Book a weekend away with Mum in York where you can:

Tuck into a delicious afternoon tea at Bettys

If homemade scones and a giant pot of tea sound like your kind of thing, you’ll be in safe hands at Bettys. The Yorkshire tea room is famed for its sumptuous afternoon tea spreads and gorgeous dining hall featuring 1930s themed décor inspired by the Queen Mary ocean liner.

Wander along the old city walls

York’s Roman city walls remain mostly intact, meaning you can easily stroll around the entire city. Stretch your legs out on a private tour of the walls with a local guide or take your time walking along the length of them at your own pace.

Shop for local crafts and produce at The Shambles Market

The Shambles is perhaps York’s best-known street and where you’ll spot dozens of timber framed houses dating back to the 14th century. While you’ll find it’s a bustling destination at any time of the day, consider heading there in the morning for The Shambles Market to shop for local produce and handicrafts at over 85 stalls.

Book tickets for an event at York Racecourse

Whether you’re into racing or not, York Racecourse is a great venue for a day out and regularly hosts amazing shopping, music and foodie events. In 2020, Mother’s Day happens to fall on the same weekend as the Living North Fair – one of the region’s largest Spring shopping events. Alternatively, why not reserve a table at the racecourse’s annual three course Mother’s Day Lunch?

Admire the interiors of York Minster

A key spot on the city’s skyline and famed for its intricate interiors, York Minster is a must-see. If you and Mum are feeling energetic, consider climbing up the 275 steps to the top of the main tower for jaw-dropping views of the entire city.

Mother’s Day in Liverpool

Swiftly becoming one of the coolest cities in the North, Liverpool is packed with fantastic cultural attractions to suit everyone. Treat Mum with a stay in Liverpool and look forward to:

Soaking up amazing contemporary art at the Tate Liverpool

The North’s very own branch of the globally renowned Tate gallery, the Tate Liverpool is the ideal venue for Mums with a keen eye for art. Explore exhibition halls packed with pieces from top modern artists like Henri Matisse, Wassily Kandinsky and Keith Haring.

Following in the Fab Four’s footsteps at the Beatles Story

Liverpool’s star attraction, you can’t beat spending an hour or two at The Beatles Story. The interactive exhibition is found at the Royal Albert Dock and is where you and Mum can learn everything there is to know about the Fab Four.

Going for a stroll around pretty Sefton Park

Located on the southern fringes of the city and stretching out for over 250 acres, Sefton Park is one of Liverpool’s prettiest green spaces. As well as strolling down leafy pathways together, you’ll also be able to explore the stunning Victorian Palm House and stop off for a warming cuppa at one of the lakeside cafés.

Browsing vintage treasures along Bold Street

Bold Street in Liverpool’s Ropewalks district is a haven for those after cool independent boutiques and quirky places to eat and drink. Spend an afternoon perusing vintage stores, local interior shops and other hidden gems before taking Mum for a tasty lunch at a café like Leaf or Maray.

Sold on the idea of spending Mother’s Day in one of these amazing cities? Book train tickets advance through TransPennine Express and make the most of our great discounts.