Northern coffee adventure is first stop on a Colne Valley food and drink trail

Coffee lovers were given the opportunity to join a special train, exclusive to Northern customers from Manchester to Marsden, crossing the Pennines and travelling through the Colne Valley; an area that is becoming known as a happy hunting ground for foodies, thanks to the many independent food and drink producers based there.

The group enjoyed a unique behind-the-scenes tour of the award-winning Dark Woods roastery in Marsden, West Yorkshire, with a guided tasting masterclass and barista training from coffee expert Damian Blackburn, as well as brunch from local bakery, Roger’s.

Liam Sumpter, Regional Director at Northern, said: “We’re proud to be Northern and that means we get to run our trains through some of the most vibrant and interesting food-producing communities in the country.

“We’re keen to encourage people to explore the food and drink experiences on offer across the North. Whether you’re a coffee-lover, a craft ale connoisseur or if artisan baking gets you going, a journey through the Colne Valley will definitely satisfy your appetite for great food and drink.”

The Manchester to Marsden coffee train is part of Northern’s We Are Northern campaign which celebrates everything the north of England has to offer. As part of the campaign, Northern will be working with food producers across the region to create a downloadable trail map featuring great food and drink destinations that can be easily reached by rail.

Playing a vital role by connecting hundreds of thousands of people to work, leisure, education and more every week, Northern’s footprint covers some of the most celebrated food producing regions in the UK including Yorkshire’s Rhubarb Triangle, the east coast with its fishing, Bradford’s famous curries, breweries in Stoke-on-Trent and Lancashire’s famous pies and hot pots.

Further details about the Northern Train Trails are available to be downloaded at www.northernrailway.co.uk