East Lancashire Railway
Step back in time on the East Lancashire Railway, experiencing the romance of steam travel and exploring charming towns.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
More trains and events running
East Lancashire Railway
Best Time
More trains and events running
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Step back in time on the East Lancashire Railway, experiencing the romance of steam travel and exploring charming towns.
"A wonderful trip through time with real steam, chugging, and bouncy seats! "
🎟️ Book Special Events Early
Murder Mystery nights and themed weekends sell out fast! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot.
📅 Check Timetables
Operating days and train times vary. Always check the official ELR website before your visit.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Steam Train Journey
Various routes
Experience the thrill of a real steam train, complete with chugging, whistles, and bouncy seats! A journey through time.
Murder Mystery Nights
Onboard trains
Engaging and suspenseful entertainment with talented actors and excellent food. A truly unique evening.
Vintage Carriages
Onboard trains
Ride in charming, historic carriages and soak in the atmosphere of a bygone era.
Transport Museum
Bury Transport Museum
Explore a fascinating collection of classic cars, trucks, and buses. A perfect complement to your railway adventure.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book in Advance for Special Events
Check the Timetable for Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Special Events Early
Murder Mystery nights and themed weekends sell out fast! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot.
📅 Check Timetables
Operating days and train times vary. Always check the official ELR website before your visit.
👨👩👧👦 Kids Travel Free (Anniversary)
Check for special offers like 'Kids Go Free' during anniversary celebrations!
🚶 Explore Along the Route
The journey passes through interesting towns. Hop off to explore and catch a later train.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Special Events Early
Murder Mystery nights and themed weekends sell out fast! Book online in advance to guarantee your spot.
📅 Check Timetables
Operating days and train times vary. Always check the official ELR website before your visit.
👨👩👧👦 Kids Travel Free (Anniversary)
Check for special offers like 'Kids Go Free' during anniversary celebrations!
🚶 Explore Along the Route
The journey passes through interesting towns. Hop off to explore and catch a later train.
🤝 Friendly Volunteers
Engage with the passionate staff and volunteers; they have great stories and tips!
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the East Lancashire Railway for its authentic steam train experience, engaging themed events like Murder Mystery nights, and the passion of its staff and volunteers. The journey through picturesque towns and the opportunity to explore the transport museum are also frequently highlighted as positives. Some minor issues can arise with very busy special events, where specific services might be crowded.
"Visited on the 200 years weekend which was very busy but easy to get on various trains though out the day, except the vintage cream tea train as it only had two carriages. Some lovely interaction with the actors on the train and friendly volunteers all day. Good long ride with interesting towns to visit along the way."
Graddy 61
"I myself have the profoundly grateful pleasure in visiting the award winning east lancashire railway 'in-person' especially to the brilliantly imposing bury 'bolton street' rly station - the very hub of greater manchester's (and lancashire's) premier heritage railway that dates back 1846,
Also enjoyably rode along the terrific 12 miles of pleasantly restored ex-cross country train track between heywood and rawtenstall - via bury, burrs country park... summerseat, across brooksbottom, onto ramsbottom, pass stubbins and Irwell vale along the course of two rivers roch and irwell in-between,
My most favourite stations along the ELR... are bury bolton street, ramsbottom, and rawtenstall, including irwell vale, I in-fact like/love all the stations, especially the halt at burrs country park out there too,
As with most heritage railways across our beloved united kingdom, the ELR is successfully well-run/properly well-operated by a fine bunch of volunteers, staff, and other helpfully assisting people who do a great job in running this lancastrian heritage railway that reaches it's 180th anniversary in 2026 by the way.
I even recommend the east lancashire railway, for the surrounding scenery, the stations, the destinations, the trains of whom hauled by both steam & heritage diesel traction - all full of character & uplifting nostalgia to behold.
My very first visit to the ELR was back in october 2005, followed by another visit of whom a revisit to heywood in 2006, a full revisit to the ELR in october 2011, with my last visit (hopefully NOT the last) being october 2023 during the spectacular autumn steam gala out there.... I hope to revisit the ELR 'in-person' one day."
William Chivers
"Going back in time. Best £50 I spent for years. Forget going abroad, packed lunch and flask of tea. Absolutely brilliant time out. Met some top people from ELR. This is what made Britain Great."
Shaheen Ayoub
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main station is in Bury. You can reach Bury by tram from Manchester city centre. Parking is also available near the stations.
Yes, parking is available at most stations, including Bury. It's advisable to check specific station details on their website.
Absolutely! Bury is well-connected by the Metrolink tram system from Manchester, making it easily accessible via public transport.
Bury is the primary hub and often the most convenient starting point, with the main ticket office and museum.
Most stations are accessible, but it's always best to check the ELR website for specific accessibility information for each station.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the type of ticket (e.g., day rover, special event). Check the official ELR website for current pricing and booking.
Yes, you can usually buy tickets on the day at the station, but for popular events, booking in advance is strongly recommended.
Look out for family tickets, concessions, and special offers like 'Kids Go Free' during certain periods or anniversaries.
A day rover ticket typically allows you to travel on all scheduled services throughout the day, and hop on and off at various stations.
Yes, Murder Mystery nights are special events and require advance booking, as they are very popular and tend to sell out.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Enjoy steam train rides, explore vintage carriages, visit the transport museum, and attend special events like Murder Mystery nights.
The full line is approximately 12 miles long, offering a substantial journey time with opportunities to explore towns along the way.
Yes, special events often cater to families, and the general experience of a steam train is exciting for children. Check for specific family days.
Operating hours and days vary seasonally and by event. Always consult the official East Lancashire Railway timetable for the most up-to-date information.
With a day rover ticket, you can typically hop on and off at various stations along the route to explore the local towns.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are usually buffet cars or dining options available on some services, and cafes at stations like Bury.
Options often include snacks, light meals, and hot drinks. Special dining trains, like the Murder Mystery night, offer full meals.
Generally, bringing your own picnic is acceptable, but it's always good to check the specific policy on their website.
It's advisable to check with the catering staff or inquire when booking special dining events, as options can vary.
This offers a delightful afternoon tea experience served in vintage carriages, a popular choice for a relaxing treat.
📸 📸 Photography
Stations like Bury, with its historic architecture, and scenic points along the route offer great photo opportunities.
Yes, passengers are generally welcome to take photos on the train, capturing the steam, carriages, and scenery.
While generally permitted, be mindful of other passengers and avoid obstructing staff or operations.
Capture the power and beauty of the steam engines from the platforms, or from your carriage window as you depart.
Yes, with careful planning, you can find vantage points along the line to photograph the trains as they pass through the countryside.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Beyond the train ride, the Bury Transport Museum offers a great diversion with its collection of vintage vehicles. Consider planning your visit around family-friendly events or themed days, which often have activities specifically designed to entertain younger visitors. Packing snacks and drinks is usually a good idea, though cafes are available at main stations.
💑 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Even a standard steam train journey can be romantic, especially if you choose a scenic route and enjoy the nostalgic atmosphere. The chance to explore charming towns along the way also offers opportunities for romantic strolls and discovering local cafes.
🎁 Gift Givers
Consider purchasing a day rover ticket for a more flexible gift, allowing the recipient to choose their own adventure along the line. The Bury Transport Museum visit can also be a great add-on for car and vehicle enthusiasts. It’s a thoughtful way to give the gift of an experience rather than a material item.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Magic of Steam Travel
Many visitors highlight the friendly and passionate staff and volunteers who enhance the experience with their knowledge and enthusiasm. They are often happy to share stories about the engines and the railway's heritage, making the trip even more engaging. This personal touch is a significant part of what makes the ELR so special.
For those seeking a truly memorable outing, the steam train journey is the core attraction. It’s a chance to create lasting memories, whether you’re a lifelong train enthusiast or simply looking for a unique day out. The sensory experience of a steam train is something that digital screens can't replicate, making it a must-do for many.
Unforgettable Themed Events
Beyond the mysteries, the railway hosts various other special occasions, from heritage weekends celebrating significant anniversaries to seasonal events. These often involve period costumes, reenactments, and unique dining options, providing a rich and immersive atmosphere. It’s these special events that draw many visitors back time and again, seeking new and exciting ways to experience the railway.
When planning a visit, checking the ELR's events calendar is crucial. Booking for these popular events is essential, as they are known to sell out quickly. The combination of historical transport and engaging entertainment makes these themed events a standout feature of the East Lancashire Railway.
Exploring the Route and Beyond
For instance, Bury is home to the Bury Transport Museum, a fantastic addition for anyone interested in vintage vehicles. This museum houses an impressive collection of classic cars, trucks, and buses, making it a perfect complement to a day of heritage travel. It’s an excellent way to extend your historical journey beyond the railway itself.
Visitors often recommend taking the time to explore the towns along the route, perhaps enjoying a local meal or browsing shops. This flexibility allows for a more personalized and in-depth experience, turning a simple train ride into a full day of discovery.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit