I would have loved to take the train to Barrow-in-Furness for my visit in July 2025, but I was apprehensive about coming across the kind of delay/cancellation/overcrowding problems which plague the long distance train services in the UK.
That is how I ended up with a 4 hour (each way – plus breaks) road trip. I opted to rent a car for the weekend because my own car needs an oil change and a new tyre. Maybe 3 new tyres, I suppose.
For £162 for 3 days I had a Vauxhall Corsa from the local Arnold Clark outlet. In that deal I got 250 free miles per day, and no insurance excess. I paid another £55 for fuel. I enjoyed driving something different, although “enjoy” is a relative term faced with traffic conditions on the motorways.
The Old Lyric Hall cost £100 per night for my two night stay. Breakfast was included, although it was just a basket with fruit, cereal etc to eat in the room. I had a deluxe apartment for single occupancy.
The rugby cost £18 for an advance ticket bought online. They do not give discounts to us elderly fans. It is a pleasant ground and it was an excellent match. The right team won, which always helps.
I had a dinner at Kapadokya – recommended by the Old Lyric Hall. It was excellent. I cleared my plate, and it was a big one.
I had a lunch at The Hive – also recommended. It was lovely too.
https://hivebistro.co.uk/gallery/
I had planned on doing the Parkrun in Barrow on the Saturday morning but it was cancelled. Instead I did the Ford course in nearby Ulverston. It takes place in a lovely park, but it is hilly!
It was a lovely trip, but I may take the train next year…
ⓒ iain taylor, 2025
🏴🏴