Fodor's Travel Talk Forums - 19th Century: Halifax, Sheffield

Hi, Fodorites!

Preparing a September return to England (finally!) and had a few questions below. For anyone who’s been to Halifax/Sheffield, would appreciate your thoughts/suggestions. [About me: Don’t much care about modern attractions, dining/drinking. Very interested in 19th century history (fashion, exploration, industry & agriculture, domestic life).]

DAY 1 – Travel to Halifax

Arrive 6:50 a.m. Heathrow (from US), Piccadilly line to Kings Cross St. Pancras
Train to Halifax (booking a 10:57 a.m. and a 2:56 p.m. train ticket; they are cheap singles and cheaper than a single off-peak/anytime ticket)
- Question RE: Rail strikes/Coach strikes: Wondering if I should book a backup coach ticket in case rail strikes continue through the autumn? Coach tickets are very cheap now, so am thinking I will. However, anyone know if rail and coach strikes can happen at the same time?
Self-guided architecture walk (Piece Hall, Borough Market if I make it in time.)
- Question: Any landmarks of particular Victorian-era interest?
- Question: Any independent tour guides of Halifax with a focus on 18th-19th century? (I found https://calderdaleheritagewalks.org.uk but timing doesn’t work for me.)

DAY 2 – Halifax (Shibden Hall); train to Sheffield

Morning: tour of Shibden Hall
- Question: Anyone able to speak to how long I’ll need there? I’m allowing 3 hours for the house and gardens.
Afternoon: tour Bankfield Museum
Early evening: train to Sheffield (via Leeds)

DAY 3-4 – Sheffield/Hikes in Peak District/Tour Sheffield (bad weather day/s)
Question: Sheffield Botanic Gardens is a must for me for Joseph Paxton connection, etc. Anyone have other suggestions of 19th century interest?
DAY 5 – Sheffield to London (rail and coach tickets)
DAY 6-10 – London

Question: If anyone hears of any 19th century special exhibits, plays, please let me know.

Thanks in advance for any ideas.