Travel by Water
Top 5 rail and water adventures
Catching the train and being whisked away on far-reaching tracks will always make any adventure extra fun, but combine that with jumping on a boat and sailing across the water and … just WOW!
There’s something magical about boat rides, whether you’re meandering along a stately canal or braving the open seas on a ferry to a distant craggy island. We’ve found 5 unforgettably fabulous rail and water experiences for you to enjoy!
01. Ferry Cruise on the Mersey, Liverpool
What could be more relaxing than a cruise along one of the UK’s most iconic rivers? Learn about the people of Liverpool, and see a completely different side of the city as the famous Mersey Ferry sweeps you along.
Hear how the Beatles played while cruising on the Mersey, how the ferries were so crucial to our victory in the First World War and all about Liverpool’s maritime history and rich cultural heritage.
To reach the cruise launch, it’s a gentle stroll through Liverpool’s historic city centre, past architectural delights and street cafes. A cruise along the River Mersey offers a memorable day out for all the family.
- Nearest station to the Mersey Ferry - Liverpool Lime Street
- https://www.merseyferries.co.uk/
02. York Boat Trips, York
Explore historic York by boat, gently cruising along the River Ouse that flows through this great city, while escaping the tourists. See York as the Vikings did, and discover the secret stories behind the battles and people that inhabited the region since the dawn of time. Hear about how chocolate wouldn’t be the same if not for York’s inland port, and the treasures that came into England thanks to the River Ouse.
- Nearest station - York
- https://www.cityexperiences.com/york/city-cruises/
03. River Cruise, Newcastle
Take a cruise along the River Tyne, and experience an unusual side to the cities of Newcastle and Gateshead. Catching the boat at the Quayside, just a short walk from Newcastle station, your informative and hugely exciting trip on the Tyne takes you under the seven iconic bridges.
From medieval architecture to contemporary designs, travel right back into the mists of time, before returning to the rich diversity of 21st century Newcastle. This is the perfect way to spend a few hours, and an excellent way to explore the city.
- Nearest station to the River Cruise - Newcastle
- https://newcastlegateshead.com/business-directory/things-to-do/river-escapes
04. Canal Cruise, Manchester
Manchester is famous for its role in the Industrial Revolution. This was made possible by the maze of waterways that were constructed throughout the city to transport coal and other goods. The backbone was the Ship Canal. Stretching for over 36 miles, it enabled coal to be carried from Manchester to the Irish Sea.
The cruises take you on a journey through time into the heart of Manchester’s fascinating docklands. Learn how the many locks work to keep the waterways flowing and travel along the Ship Canal and onto the River Irwell. Experience this surprising city, including
Stephenson’s railway bridge, the impressive Old Trafford Football Stadium and even the cobbles of ITV's Coronation Street, from an unusual perspective.
Whether you’re a Mancunian or visiting the city for the first time, you’re guaranteed to learn something fascinating on a cruise of the Ship Canal.
- Nearest station to the Canal Cruise - Manchester Piccadilly
- https://www.getyourguide.com/manchester-river-cruises-s34022/
05. Isle of Man
Exploring this fascinating island couldn't be easier with daily ferry services between Liverpool and the Isle of Man.
Lying in the middle of the northern Irish Sea and colonised since 6500 BCE, this sparsely inhabited craggy rock offers a surprising amount of things to do. In the capital, Douglas, you’ll find the Manx Museum, telling the story of the island through relics and artefacts, and scattered across the island important archaeological sites, castles and stunning beaches.
With plenty of hotels, cosy B&Bs, and campsites, your Manx adventure can continue, or with the budget-friendly ferry service, return again and again.
- Nearest station to Isle of Man ferry - Liverpool Lime Street. Check the Isle of Man website for seasonal information
- https://www.manxferries.com/ports/liverpool/
Northern App
Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.
Northern App
Streamline your journey and get tickets straight to your phone. Making your journey contact-free.