Train stations are often bustling hubs of activity connecting people to destinations across the north. Train operator Northern is highlighting some of its station offerings that might make you want to stay a while. There is a whole host of independent businesses – from artisan coffee shops to a vibrant antique shop. Here's a guide to some of the best hidden gems that can be found Northern’s network.
Mark Powles, customer and commercial director at Northern said: "We have so many wonderful independent businesses that continue to breathe new life into our network of more than 500 stations.
“As well as being places where people catch the train, we also want to create and be part of the local community.”
Hebden Bridge
As well as being the perfect place to grab your morning pick-me-up, The Coffee Station also serves up tasty hot lunches and cakes from a cosy Grade II listed building. Crafts that have been handmade by local artists are sold here too.
Knaresborough
At Knaresborough you can grab a cuppa from the friendly team at The Old Ticket Office or wet your whistle at micropub Track & Sleeper, which is operated by Gorilla Brewing, on platform two which serves real ales, ciders and gins.
Meanwhile there’s the aptly named Northernline Antiques which stores an eclectic mix of vintage items, collectables, ceramics, furniture and artwork.
Sister business Northernline Art shares the same premises and offers a range of craft workshops, from potter's wheel classes to mosaic making.
Irlam
Refuel at The Station Café Bar. With views overlooking the platform it’s the perfect place to watch the trains pull in. Don’t miss the famous full steam ahead hearty breakfast!
Todmorden
Hunky Dory coffee greets the station’s morning commuter trains from Todmorden station. Serving up coffee, hot drinks and snacks from ‘Clemmie’ the van is the perfect way to start the day.
Manchester Oxford Road
Pizzeria Slice is just what you need if you’re dropping into Manchester or heading out on an adventure around the city centre.
Every day, owner Matt serves up six different slices. These change daily – you never know what you’re going to get but you always know it’ll be hot, filling and delicious.
Glossop
The old booking office at the station has been converted into the small but perfectly formed Twig Coffee Shop. Sweet treats, hot drinks and amazing sausage rolls are just some of the items on the menu here.
If you have a great idea for starting or growing your business at one of our stations, please check out the current opportunities on our dedicated webpage or get in touch if you are you are interested in a location that isn’t listed as we have lots of new opportunities in the pipeline that are not yet listed.
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Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.