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East Lancashire Railway

In a nutshell

Travel through the beautiful Irwell Valley on board a heritage steam or diesel train and discover everything the region has to offer. Great family events.

Address

Bolton Street Station, Bolton Street, Bury, Greater Manchester BL9 0EY

Contact details

Tel: 0333 320 2830

Web: www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk

Activity type

Birthdays, Gardens and Open Spaces, Historical Sites, Museums and Art Centres, Trips and Transport

Suitable for

All ages, Schools and Groups

Price guide

£44 Online

(2 adults + 3 children)

East Lancashire Railway details...

Nestled deep in the heart of the Irwell Valley, the East Lancashire Railway spans 12 miles of beautiful Lancastrian scenery.  The railway can trace its origins back to the Industrial Revolution when it was part of a network ferrying goods and people around the region.

Each station along the line offers something unique, from villages to bustling urban centres. Visitors can take a stroll around historic Heywood, relax in Rawtenstall and Ramsbottom, pay a visit to Burrs and busy Bury or soak up the scenery in Summerseat.

Visit Bury Transport Museum, where you can discover the rich history of transportation in the North-West.

The railway also a great programme of events to suit any age. Families can enjoy visits from characters like Thomas the Tank Engine and Peppa Pig, as well as popular seasonal events such as Halloween Ghost Trains and the famous Santa Specials.

Please click here for opening times. Prices may vary on special event days, check website in advance.

View official website


East Lancashire Railway Events

Day Out With Thomas™ at the East Lancashire Railway

Open 18th July 2026 - 4th October 2026


Head to the East Lancashire Railway for a Day Out With Thomas™. The Let's Rock, Let's Roll Tour is hitting the tracks on 18th-19th July and 3rd-4th October.


Wizard Adventure at East Lancashire Railway

Open 6th August 2026 - 30th October 2026


Wands at the ready for East Lancashire Railway's Wizard Academy – an interactive train event on 6th August and 29th-30th October for ages 8–10 years.


Dino Adventure at East Lancashire Railway

Open 7th August 2026 - 7th August 2026


Grab your explorer hat for a roar-some day out on board a heritage train at the East Lancashire Railway on 7th August! Ideal for children aged 8-10 years.


Wonderland Adventure at East Lancashire Railway

Open 23rd August 2026 - 23rd August 2026


Step through the looking glass on the East Lancashire Railway’s interactive Alice-themed train event on 23rd August. Ideal for children aged 8–10 years.


Villain Academy at East Lancashire Railway

Open 13th August 2026 - 13th August 2026


Meet rogues like Captain Hook and Cruella and unleash your inner baddie! Board a heritage train at the East Lancashire Railway on 13th August.


Goldilocks Adventure at East Lancashire Railway

Open 21st August 2026 - 21st August 2026


A cute and cuddly trip aboard a heritage train to the fairy tale forest with the East Lancashire Railway on 21st August. Take your teddy or doll along too!


Peppa Pig™ at East Lancashire Railway

Open 22nd August 2026 - 22nd August 2026


Meet Peppa Pig and join in family fun including a fun fair, craft activities, petting zoo and face painting at the East Lancashire Railway on 22nd August.


Bluey and Bingo™ at East Lancashire Railway

Open 12th September 2026 - 12th September 2026


Excitable sisters Bluey and Bingo are visiting the East Lancashire Railway on 12th September. Meet-and-greets, petting zoo, crafts, face painters and more.


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