Steam Train, Canal & Historic Halls of Lancashire - Thu 30th April 2020

Exciting new holiday for 2020 staying in a quality hotel and with an interesting excursion package included! Lancashire, in North West England is a county of contrasting landscapes, diverse heritage and historic towns and villages. Take in stunning views of the countryside as we enjoy a leisurely canal trip along the Leeds Liverpool canal and a memorable steam railway journey. Coupled with these excursions are visits to the striking Samlesbury Hall and Gawthorpe Hall – known as the “Downton of the North”.   All entrance fees are included. 

The good quality 4* Hallmark Hotel Preston Leyland Hotel is situated on the outskirts of Preston and enjoys an excellent reputation.

DAY 1
After being collected from your local pick up point (approx 7.00/8.00am) we have refreshment stops as required before arriving at the hotel late afternoon.

DAY 2
Begin the day with a guided tour of Samlesbury Hall, a fabulous half-timbered black and white medieval house built in 1325 as a family home, before making our way to Riley Green Marina to embark upon a narrow boat cruise along the Leeds Liverpool Canal. Our 3 hour round trip passes through delightful countryside including Withnell Fold Nature Reserve, past the old Paper Mill and on to the lovely hamlet of Wheelton and Johnsons Hillock Locks before descending and ascending two locks and returning to Riley Green. During the cruise, a two course lunch is served on board.

DAY 3
Today, we travel to Rawtenstall where 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 the market town of Bury, for time in the world famous Bury Market.

DAY 4
This morning, we enjoy a scenic drive through the picturesque Ribble Valley stopping en route at the Oswaldtwistle Mills shopping village and garden centre. This award winning former weaving mill has over 100 retailers under one roof, 5 restaurants, an ice cream parlour, garden centre, mill grounds, craft and sewing centre, Textile and Heritage Museum and even its own wildfowl reserve. We have free time for a spot of browsing and lunch before continuing on our way to Gawthorpe Hall. An Elizabethan gem in the heart of industrial Lancashire, Gawthorpe Hall was the family seat of the Shuttleworth family for over 300 years. Inside the house you will find period rooms by renowned architect Sir Charles Barry and discover its fascinating connection with the English Civil War.

DAY 5
We head home with comfort stops as required - returned to the local area around 5.00/6.00pm

Meal plan - Dinner Bed & Breakfast

4* Hallmark Hotel Preston Leyland

One of the quality Hallmark Hotel group, the Preston Leyland offers all the modern comforts you would expect from a 4* hotel with a unique, stylish traditional décor throughout. 
Located on the edge of the historic town of Preston it is an excellent base for exploring the local area. The spacious public rooms offer ample areas to relax – head for the bar and lounge for a coffee or pre dinner drink. In the evening the restaurant, which enjoys a good reputation, serves a selection of British classic dishes – 3 courses with a choice of menu, glass of wine followed by tea or coffee. Breakfast offers a wide selection of hot and cold options – served buffet style. The bedrooms offer comfortable beds, free WiFi, flat screen TV, tea & coffee making facilities and modern bathrooms with shower over bath and hairdryer.

Head for the Leisure Club for a swim in the indoor pool, and relax in the sauna and steam room. No lift but ground floor rooms available.