Have you got plans for an exciting adventure in the North? Whether you are exploring with your walking group, are part of the Guides or Scouts or are simply looking for a dose of fresh air with your friends and family, have you considered some of our helpful suggestions?
All are easily accessible using the Northern network and did you know that by swapping your journey from car to train you could reduce your carbon footprint by a whopping 78%*!
1. Get a head for heights in Ilkley
Main station: Ilkley
Does your group love getting up high, then the look no further than Cow and Calf Rocks a spectacular rock formation high on Ilkley Moor which draws climbers and nature lovers from across the North of England. It’s less than a 10 minute walk from Northern’s Ben Rhydding station just outside Ilkley.
Formed from millstone grit, you can take a picnic to eat amongst the beautiful views, or head back into the town where there are a plethora of independent cafes serving great food and drinks to revive everyone after a good day out. If climbing’s not your thing, there’s the fabulous Ilkley Moor Walk, plus Twelve Apostles. Remember that climbing should only be undertaken by expert groups.
2. Love the lakes? Head to Windermere!
Main station: Windermere
Love getting on the water with your group, the picturesque Lake District is the perfect place for beginners and experts alike. Take a look at Windermere Outdoor Adventure Centre, specialising in canoeing, kayaking, windsurfing and sailing, they offer introductory courses, multi-activity days and even guided tours.
A 20-minute walk from the train station, you’ll be sure to find some friendly faces at Windermere Outdoor Adventure Centre ready to help you learn new skills and make memories with your group.
Big savings when you travel in a big group
Explore the North with your friends and family and save up to 76% with Northern! Contact our group travel specialists to get started.
Find out more about group tickets3. Find some wheely good cycling in Northumberland
Main station: Chathill
For those groups that love cycling, the North is a gold mine of gorgeous routes to explore and a visit to Chathill in Northumberland with Northern trains is bound to delight any cycling group. The Northumberland Coastal Route is nestled between the Scottish border and the North sea – it’s about as far north as you can get in England.
Starting and finishing at Chathill, the 48-mile route is easily accessible by train and takes in the beautiful sights of Bamburgh where you can detour to the magnificent Bamburgh Castle. Time your cycle right and you can cycle across the causeway to the island of Lindisfarne where you can stop to catch your breath and admire the famous monastery.
4. Take to the skies in Flookburgh
Main station: Cark & Cartmel
Are your group adrenaline junkies? Have you long dreamt of flying through the clouds, feeling the incomparable rush of sky diving? Then it is time to visit Skydive Northwest! Just 20 minutes from Cark station, gather together your bravest friends for a group adventure 10,000ft above ground.
An addictive and exhilarating sport, sky diving is nowhere near as risky as many people believe. Safety is a top priority and Skydive Northwest’s parachute systems and teaching methods are extremely reliable, so – what are you waiting for?
5. Get adventurous underground in Alderley Edge
Main station: Alderley Edge
How does your group feel about adventures underground? Step off the train and into Alderley Edge, a village and civil parish in Cheshire. There is plenty to do and explore here, from guided walks of the area to bird and butterfly spotting.
Alderley Edge even has a cave and mining system which date back over 4,000 years. Want to find out more on how you can explore these intricate mines? The Derbyshire Caving Club are the experts!
More group activities to enjoy in the North
*Data from https://ourworldindata.org/travel-carbon-footprint – comparing one person driving in a medium petrol car vs. taking a train. Further information available at https://www.northernrailway.co.uk/sustainable-public-transport.
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Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.