East Lancashire Railway

The age of steam revived

The beautifully restored steam railway takes you on a captivating journey to discover the region's rich transport heritage, taking in viaducts, historic towns and picturesque villages and passing through tunnels en route along the Irwell Valley, along the edge of the West Pennine Moors.

Passenger services run from Bury to Ramsbottom, Rawtenstall and Heywood as well as the villages of Summerseat and Irwell Vale, with spectacular views of the West Pennine Moor. Passengers may leave the train at any station, then rejoin a later train to complete the journey. There are picnic areas at Bury and at the Riverside in Ramsbottom.

There are great places to take the kids to, and visitors can hop on and off the train to explore the surroundings including the Chocolate Café in Ramsbottom and Fudge Village in Rawtenstall.

Kids can also get hands on in the new Transport Museum, which re-opened in March 2010 following a £2.9m transformation. Activities include building bridges, coin rubbing, trying on period hats and costumes and learning about people's lives and jobs in the early 20th century. Not to forget the extensive collection of fully restored vintage road and rail vehicles.

If you are still looking for something to do during the summer there are special events happening on and along the railway including the Family Fun Weekend (7th - 8th August) and hands on craft activities in the museum on every Wednesday and Friday from 28th July - 27th August 2010 between 11am - 3pm. To keep up to date on family friendly activities and events go to www.east-lancs-rly.co.uk.

www.east-lancs-rly.co.uk