When did you last travel on a steam train?
I’m happy to say that I had the privilege of travelling on the steam train last week, as part of the “Tourism on Track” event at Bolton Abbey station.
The day was organised by “Visit North Yorkshire” with the objective of enabling all those working in the visitor economy across North Yorkshire to meet and gather, to exchange literature and connect, whilst also hearing about the work of the organisation and being able to travel along the railway line too.
The event was very well organised and held just off the platform – so big thanks are due to Visit North Yorkshire for putting it together.
Being given a platform to connect in person with other tourism businesses from across the county has been really uplifting – meeting new faces and old. It was a chance to meet, share stories and for me – to collect new and updated leaflets for our holiday cottages in Bank Newton. Just some of the local businesses I met included:
- Embsay and Bolton Abbey Steam Railway
- Pennine Cruisers
- Visit Settle
- Skipton Castle
- Bolton Abbey Estate
- Settle Carlisle – Footsteps in time
- Settle Flowerpot Festival
Beyond, it was great to see The Forbidden Corner, Studfold Adventure Trail in Nidderdale and Mother Shipton’s Cave in Knareborough.
In each cottage we offer information booklets, but also leaflets baskets of ideas and visitor attractions locally, as well as promotional offers.
The journey on the steam train took me back down memory lane. As a child, my Grandad took me often to Embsay Sation. We would visit the Buffet car on the platform and enjoyed having a go in the “lucky dip” that was there.
So returning to Embsay Station, is full of nostalgia, with childhood memories so cherished brought to the fore. Sometimes there’s nothing like spending a moment reflecting on those joyful times – like a warm hug.
The train journey took us from Bolton Abbey Station to Embsay Station. Out of the windows you can see the Dales skyline – with Embsay Crag behind the village. For me, all seen from a different angle and perspective, but familiar sights nevertheless.
It was a pleasure to enjoy the train ride in the company of staff from The Coniston Hotel – a fabulous venue 10 minutes’ drive away from our cottages, and one of our recommended places to dine during your stay in Bank Newton. The Coniston is also a brilliant choice for a Spa Day locally, with facilities that are made for relaxing in and there are very fine views too.
Having been back on the railway line, I’d wholeheartedly recommend building in a steam journey to your visit. The journey isn’t too long – it’s not a whole day activity, but combine it with one of the fabulous on-the-train dining experiences (the first class breakfast train...or the afternoon tea experience), or take a walk to Bolton Priory when you get to Bolton Abbey, and it’ll make a wonderful and memorable day out.
It turns out you don’t have to be a child to enjoy the steam railway. Rail enthusiasts span all the generations, so why not enjoy some local heritage during your stay in North Yorkshire?