There is something about a day out which begins with a train journey which turns the whole event into something out of an Enid Blyton story, (you can almost taste the potted meat sandwiches and lashings of ginger beer). Travel by locomotive features regularly in the best fiction- Harry Potter’s journey to Hogwarts, evacuation at the beginning of The Lion, The Witch and the Wardrobe and the elegant and exotic scenery in Murder On The Orient Express.

Travelling to Ulverston via Arnside you experience stunning vistas from your seat in the carriage as the train goes over two lengthy viaducts. It gives you the sensation of floating over the sea- the route is truly spectacular.

Ulverston itself was a Georgian marvel, packed full of independent shops and peppered with fantastic architecture.

Travel with a toddler ensures that our progress is slow, regular pauses enable us to savour our surroundings and appreciate the smallest details. He approaches everything with enthusiasm, willingness to learn and a zest for living. He’s an inspiration to us all and a seasoned traveler who, like Poirot himself, insists on regular stops for rest ( a wonderful stop at the converted water tower- Bikestation– a marvellous fusion of bike repair shop and cafe), impeccably punctual mealtimes with only the best local offerings ( today care of the inestimable Poppies cafe). What a privilege to travel with him, CC and my father today!