East Lancashire Railway
Type:Steam Railway
Bolton Street
Bury
Greater Manchester
BL9 0EY
About
Nestled deep in the heart of the Irwell Valley, the East Lancashire Railway spans 12 miles of beautiful Lancastrian scenery and over a century of rich history. The railway can trace its storied origins back to the heady days of the Industrial Revolution when it was part of a network ferrying goods and people around the region. Whilst those days are long past, the railway continues to serve the local community, now as a transport to unforgettable experiences.
Each station along the line offers something unique, from picture perfect little villages to bustling urban centres. Visitors can take a stroll around historic Heywood, relax in Rawtenstall and Ramsbottom, pay a visit to bucolic Burrs and busy Bury or soak up the scenery in Summerseat.
Local attractions include eclectic boutiques, tea rooms, a wide array of real ale bars and trendy pubs and restaurants, cafés and more. The ELR even offers a number of curated itineraries to help you to get your adventure started, and there are a number of experiences available that showcase the best the line has to offer. Dine in style on a Dining Experience or take a walk on the “mild” side with a Rail Ale Trail. No visit to the ELR would be complete without a stop at Bury Transport Museum, where you can discover the rich history of transportation in the North-West.
The railway also boasts an extensive programme of events to suit any age and interest. For families we have regular visits from characters like Thomas the Tank Engine, Peppa Pig and more, as well as our popular seasonal events like the Halloween Ghost Trains and the famous Santa Specials. Loco enthusiasts won’t miss out as we host a range of Diesel and Steam exclusive galas throughout the year, often featuring guest engines from across the country.
Every stop is a start!
East Lancashire Railway Timetable
Head here for the East Lancashire Railway timetable for 2023.
Events
The East Lancashire Railway holds many events throughout the year from adventures with Wizards and Dinosaurs to visits from famous characters like Peppa Pig, Thomas the Tank Engine and more. Scroll down to see all the events at the East Lancashire Railway this year.
Experiences
The East Lancashire Railway offers a host of experiences such as luxury dining, rail ale tours and the chance to drive a train. Find out more.