Traveling from Manchester to York is like stepping back in time. Manchester was a leader in the industrial revolution, and York still retains walls, buildings and history from the medieval era and even from Roman times.
Visit the National Rail Web site or the BritRail Web site to help you both plan and purchase your journey (see links below in Additional Resources). You can also call National Rail at 011 (+44) (0) 20 7278 5240 (from the U.S.) or 08457 48 49 50 (from the U.K.) and BritRail at (866) BRITRAIL.
Buy your ticket from a station agent if you need to speak to a person about changes and route options. Otherwise, buy one online ahead of time or purchase a ticket for cash on the train.
Buy a BritRail Pass online before you go and enjoy unlimited train travel on the consecutive days specified by the type of pass you choose.
Consider booking train travel by calling RailEurope at (888) 382-RAIL or by visiting the link below in Additional Resources.
Step onto your train if you already have a BritRail Pass; you don't need to purchase tickets.
Choose a train that travels in the middle of the day for the best chance to sightsee. You'll escape the morning fog and gain a good view of the English countryside and the Yorkshire moors.
Opt for trains that will take you to York from Manchester with no train changes from Manchester's Piccadilly and Oxford Road stations. Choose these trains for the easiest trip, if they fit your schedule.
Wear walking gear, since York is a destination that favors touring on foot.
Reserve lodgings ahead of time. Even day-trippers usually find themselves staying a spontaneous extra day in this charming city.
Carry an informative guide book to get the most out of your trip to this ancient settlement.
