Diverse, energetic and bursting with character, the Manchester region is one of the most exciting places to visit in the UK. Known as the birthplace of the industrial revolution, the city is packed full of attractions, galleries and museums. We include an in-depth walking tour of Manchester itself, a canal trip with afternoon tea, a fish & chips lunch with a difference, and a memorable heritage train ride on the East Lancashire Railway.
Gawthorpe Hall
Manchester Canal
East Lancs Railway © Pat Kilner
Kittywakes Cruises
Olympus Fish n Chip shop
Itinerary
PACKAGED ITINERARY
Day 1 Arrival
We arrive at our hotel in time for dinner.
Day 2 Manchester Tour
This morning, we meet our guide for our 2-hour part step-on & part walking tour of Manchester. Our tour will unveil a host of hidden gems as we learn about some of the ‘firsts’ the city has produced in its long and illustrious history. We see the Bridgewater Canal, uncover the story of the world’s first passenger railway, experience Sackville Park and the story of Alan Turing and walk in the footsteps of LS Lowry. Having built up a thirst, we relax with a drink in one of the many vibrant pubs. This afternoon we can either have time at leisure in Manchester or perhaps visit Dunham Massey, a courtly Elizabethan mansion with French style formal gardens.
Day 3 Canal Cruise & Bolton & Fish ‘n Chip & Singalong
We head to famous Wigan Pier where we board our Kittywake Boat for a 2-hour canal cruise, so we can sit back in the comfort of our heated cabin to watch the ever-changing scenery as we pass through areas key to the Industrial Revolution. We also have the unique experience of cruising
through a working lock. We have a special treat for lunch today as we visit the Olympus Fish & Chip Restaurant where we have a traditional fish ‘n chip lunch followed by an afternoon of entertainment, dancing and sing-a-long. As if that wasn’t enough, after the entertainment we enjoy some homemade scones, cream & jam.
Day 4 Bury Market, East Lancashire Railway & Gawthorpe Hall
This morning, we head straight to Bury and its famous market – voted Britain’s best – where we can browse the extensive stalls in the large market hall and outside. After an early lunch, it is time to board our train as we step back in time for a nostalgic trip on a steam train along the East Lancashire Railway. Our journey takes us through the beautiful Lancashire countryside to Rawtenstall where we disembark. Our final stop is Gawthorpe Hall, affectionately known as the “Downton of the North” and is a fine example of Elizabethan architecture.
Please note: East Lancashire Railway is subject to timetable.
Day 5 Departure
After breakfast, we make our way home.
Hotel
Holiday Inn Bolton Centre
Bolton, Greater Manchester
This welcoming, modern hotel is centrally located in Bolton, approximately 5 minutes’ walk from the town centre. It is close to the motorway with convenient links to Manchester and the Northwest, making it a great touring location. The 132 bedrooms are stylishly decorated with a modern, neutral décor. Each room features a TV, hairdryer, and tea/coffee-making facilities for a comfortable stay. The stylish open plan bar and restaurant are bright and airy with large floor to ceiling windows letting in plenty of natural daylight.
BarLiftParking Off Site & ChargeableRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilities
Mercure Bolton Georgian House Hotel
Bolton, Greater Manchester
This hotel is built around a former Georgian Manor House with landscaped gardens, conveniently located with easy access to the M61, making it an ideal touring base for the Northwest. Each of the 91 spacious bedrooms is accessible by lift and the comfortable brasserie restaurant (accessed by a few steps) features a sun terrace surrounded by lovely gardens. There is also a sports bar.
BarGround Floor RoomsLeisure FacilitiesLiftParking On Site & Free of ChargeRestaurantTea & Coffee making facilitiesValue Hotel
Pricing
Inclusions
- 2-hour Manchester Firsts Tour with drink
- 2-hour canal cruise with afternoon tea
- Fish ‘n’ chip lunch & afternoon of entertainment, dancing & singing at Olympus Restaurant
- East Lancashire Railway single journey (Bury-Rawtenstall)
- Entrance to Gawthorpe Hall
See quote for hotel inclusions
Holiday Inn Bolton Centre
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £425pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from £95
Based on Sunday arrivals
Mercure Bolton Georgian House Hotel
4 Nights Half Board
Twin from £369pp
Double for Sole Use Supplement from£122
Based on Sunday arrivals
