Retirement opens-up a world of opportunities, time for travel, exploration, and the joys of a slower pace of life.
In later living, many people look to the railways as an enjoyable and cost-effective mode of transport, where the journey can often be as entertaining as the final destination. A trip on the train offers a unique blend of comfort, convenience, and charm. As you travel, sit back, relax, chat, read or simply gaze out of the window and take in the passing scenery.
For those who no longer wish to drive long distances, rail travel can help to maintain a sense of independence and satisfy any desire to discover new places. It’s affordable too, with a Senior Railcard anyone 60 years or over can save one-third on all Standard and First-Class journeys.
https://www.nationalrail.co.uk/tickets-railcards-offers/promotions/senior-railcard/
Here we’ve compiled some of the best places to visit by rail from our retirement properties. All within easy reach (two hours or under) and either with a direct route or minimal changes.
ALBANY LODGE, DERBY
Our luxury retirement development in Derby is ideally located for your convenience near to local amenities, shops, restaurants, and leisure facilities with everything you need on your doorstep.
If, however, wanderlust beckons, then Derby railway station is excellently connected with Cross Country and East Midlands Railway enabling you to travel all over the country with regular trains. Here are just a few destinations you could discover via train from Derby.
Matlock, Derbyshire
Journey length: 33 minutes
Direct trains run every hour.
Amid the undulating hills of Derbyshire, the quaint town of Matlock, with its cobbled streets and Victorian heritage, has a timeless appeal and no shortage of picture-perfect landscapes.
The biggest attraction here is the Heights of Abraham. Take a cable car up high above the scenery for a panoramic view of the breathtaking beauty of the Derbyshire Dales.
Matlock is also home to vibrant markets and artisanal shops. You can delve into the region’s rich mining history at the Peak District Mining Museum and let’s not forget the simple pleasures –traditional fish and chips by the riverside, or a leisurely stroll along the River Derwent.
Just south of Matlock, the spa town of Matlock Bath, affectionately known as ‘Derbyshire on Sea,’ is also worth a visit. With quirky coffee shops and amusement arcades it has all the charm of a traditional seaside town all within half an hour’s rail journey from Derby.
Coventry
Journey length: 1hr 10 mins
One change at Birmingham New Street
Coventry is an exciting city renowned for both its history and innovation and there’s plenty to see for new visitors.
At the heart of the city, the magnificent Coventry Cathedral is a magnet for tourists. It stands tall as a symbol of resilience following a devastating bombing in World War II. Alongside the striking new design, the ruins of the original cathedral demonstrate a poignant contrast between past and present.
Coventry has so much culture and heritage to offer, with a wealth of museums to spend the day perusing. Herbert Art Gallery and Museum is filled with interactive exhibits and artifacts. Or for automotive enthusiasts, the Coventry Transport Museum is worth stopping by, it highlights the city’s role in the development of the automobile industry.
There are plenty of cultural venues to try out too, from live music and theatres to bustling markets and eateries.
ALDERMAN LODGE, BRIGHOUSE
Our Brighouse retirement property is perfectly located for enjoying life in West Yorkshire, situated close to Junction 25 of the M62 motorway. Brighouse railway station is on the Caldervale Line and Huddersfield Line. A direct service operated by Grand Central runs from London to Halifax and Brighouse three times a day. Regular trains to Huddersfield from Brighouse will connecting you to many vibrant towns and cities across the region.
Manchester
Journey length: 1 hour and five mins
One change at Huddersfield or Dewsbury
Manchester is a city of rich industrial and cultural heritage – music, football, art, food – it has everything you need for a day of enlightening exploration.
Visit the Science and Industry Museum or delve into Manchester’s cultural past at the Manchester Art Gallery or stunning John Rylands Library.
Football enthusiasts can soak up the atmosphere on either side of the city depending on allegiance. Visit Old Trafford home to Manchester United or Manchester City’s Etihad Stadium. Neutrals can take a tour of the National Football Museum to learn all about the sport’s history. Additionally, the vibrant culinary scene of Manchester offers retirees a chance to indulge in delicious cuisine from around the world, with countless cafes, restaurants, and markets to scour.
Hebden Bridge
Journey length: 25 minutes
Direct trains run every hour
Hebden Bridge, nestled in the picturesque Calder Valley, offers a relaxing day in nature coupled with some exciting small-screen sightseeing. The acclaimed TV series “Happy Valley” was filmed in and around the town, making it a magnet for fans of the show.
Walkers can take a tranquil stroll along the Rochdale Canal or hike through the rugged beauty of Hardcastle Crags. The scenery around this area is dramatic and truly breathtaking as you may have seen in the hit drama series.
After a day of exploring, how about a lovely cup of Yorkshire tea at one of the cozy cafes or a delicious meal at one of the town’s many restaurants, which often feature locally sourced ingredients. Enjoy the northern hospitality before a short train journey back home.
ROYLES LODGE, THORNTON – CLEVELEYS
The Fylde Coast and beyond is open for discovery at our Thornton-Cleveleys luxury retirement development with easy access to the M6/Junction 32 via the A6 Garstang Road and regular tram services to all the central attractions. A short tram ride to Blackpool opens up a network of railway journeys for you to enjoy.
Liverpool
Journey length: 2 hours
Take the tram to Blackpool and then a direct train from Blackpool North station
A day out in Liverpool promises culture, history, and a host of recreational activities.
You can immerse yourself in the city’s rich maritime heritage at the Royal Albert Dock. Visit the Merseyside Maritime Museum or the International Slavery Museum and learn all about bygone eras in this port city. The Tate Liverpool, a collection of modern and contemporary art, is also close by, housed in a converted warehouse.
Why not take a stroll along the waterfront and see the iconic Liver Building or take a relaxing cruise along the River Mersey, observing the sights and sounds of this vibrant city from a whole new perspective.
Music lovers can delve into the musical legacy of one of the UK’s most successful ever bands, with a visit to The Beatles Story museum.
Preston
Journey length: 1-hour 30mins
Take the tram to Blackpool and then a direct train from Blackpool North station
Preston is a developing city where a good old Northern welcome is always expected and there’s plenty to offer day-trippers. It’s not just shops, restaurants and eateries that attract visitors, however, there is green space to discover in Preston’s Avenham and Miller Parks with manicured gardens, scenic paths, and historic monuments to view.
The Harris Museum and Art Gallery is another popular attraction, housed in a stunning Grade I listed building, you can admire an impressive collection of art and artifacts spanning centuries.
A leisurely walk or boat cruise along the picturesque Lancaster Canal is a lovely way to while away the afternoon. Or visit the Ribble Steam Railway, where you can take a nostalgic journey aboard a vintage steam train through the scenic Lancashire countryside.
GLEN MILL HOUSE, SHIPLEY
Our luxury retirement development in Shipley is located near to Shipley railway station on the Airedale and Wharfedale Lines, connecting you to Leeds, Bradford, Skipton, and Ilkley along with long-distance trains run south to London King’s Cross and north to Carlisle. In our choice of the best places to visit by rail from our retirement properties, these two Yorkshire cities stand out:
York
Journey length: 51 minutes
One change at Leeds
With cobbled streets and medieval folklore weaved into the fabric of the city, York offers a unique and charming window into the past.
The Shambles is a place to get lost for the day as you marvel at the timber-framed buildings and while away the hours in the many boutiques and gift shops.
Wonder at the imposing sight of York Minster, the stunning Gothic cathedral, or take a leisurely stroll along the ancient city walls for views of the surrounding countryside.
The Jorvick Centre will transport you into the city’s Viking past – where you will meet a range of diverse and authentic characters from across the Norse world.
On foot is not the only way to sightsee in York, you can enjoy a tranquil cruise along the River Ouse too.
And after a full day exploring, why not indulge in the city’s culinary delights – from traditional Yorkshire puddings to gourmet dining experiences, York has a vibrant food scene.
Sheffield
Journey length: 1 hour 27 mins
One change at Leeds
Just half an hour away on the train, Sheffield offers Derby residents a chance to experience a vibrant city with a rich industrial heritage. That doesn’t mean a lack of green spaces though, a top attraction in Sheffield is the Botanical Gardens, where colourful blooms and tranquil waters offer solace from bustling city life.
The Millennium Gallery showcases local art and craftsmanship, while the Crucible Theatre offers world-class performances year-round. And of course, no visit to Sheffield would be complete without savouring a pint at one of its historic pubs or indulging in hearty Yorkshire fare at a cozy café.
FULL STEAM AHEAD
Fancy something a little different?
Our collection of the best places to visit by rail from our retirement properties just had to include something a little different. Owners from our Derby retirement development can take a nostalgic trip through the Derbyshire Dales with a fish and chip supper thrown in on the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway.
https://www.foxandedwards.com/fish-chip-train-derbyshire.html
Even better for those living in Shipley, the Gin Train running on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway is just 30 mins away, accompanying your journey with a set of carefully matched gin and tonics.
https://kwvr.co.uk/events/the-gin-train/
To find out more about luxury retirement living in Shipley, Derby, Thornton-Cleveleys, and Brighouse, visit https://burghleyretirement.co.uk/locations/ to download a brochure or call 0800 999 1989 to arrange a personal tour
