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East Lancashire Railway
Type:Steam Railway
Bolton Street Station, Bolton Street, Bury, Lancashire, BL9 0EY
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Make the trip from grandparent to grandchild on a journey that spans generations on this heritage railway.
With a storied history stretching back to the beginning of the Industrial Revolution, the East Lancashire Railway is the steam powered heart of the Irwell Valley, pumping goods and people around the region for nearly 200 years!
The line runs for 12 miles through scenic Lancastrian landscapes, from beautiful rural panoramas and postcard pretty villages to bustling Victorian towns and cotton mill dotted horizons. Each station offers something unique, from historical Heywood to relaxing Rawtenstall, scenic Summerseat and bustling Bury.
Local attractions include real ale bars, quaint tea rooms, quirky boutiques, markets, restaurants, cafés and more!
Take a walk on the “mild side” on a professionally guided Rail Ale Trail, experience the enchantment of fine dining aboard a heritage steam train or discover the North West’s transport history at the Bury Transport Museum. The railway also hosts an annual programme of events to suit any age and interest. Put on your dancing shoes and sashay along to the popular 1940s Weekend or make magical memories on board the award-winning Santa Specials.
Every stop is a start!
| Ticket Type | Ticket Tariff |
|---|---|
| Family (1 adult, 2 children) | £42.00 per ticket |
| Family (2 adult, 3 children) | £55.00 per ticket |
| Full Line Return Adult (18 and over) | £22.00 per ticket |
| Full Line Return Child (3 – 17) | £13.50 per ticket |
| Under 3 | Free |
Single and standard returns also available, more information on dates is available on https://www.eastlancsrailway.org.uk/plan-your-day-out/fares/
| East Lancashire Railway (1 Jan 2026 - 31 Dec 2026) | ||
|---|---|---|
| Day | Times | |
| Monday - Friday | Closed* | |
| Saturday - Sunday | 09:00 | - 17:00* |
| Bank Holiday | Open | |
* Please check the website for opening times and dates.
Dates and times marked with a '*' are provisional and may be subject to change
The Wizarding Adventure at East Lancashire RailwayIt’s time to sign up to this spellbinding school of sorcery.
Day out with ThomasTake a trip on Sodor’s number one tank engine and meet Sir Topham Hatt on this spectacular day out with Thomas. It’s all aboard the famous blue steam train for a magical ride on Thomas the Tank Engine at the ELR
Railway 200 Exhibition TrainA family-friendly exhibition train celebrating 200 years of the modern railway.
Vintage Vibes at East Lancashire RailwayTravel through time, one vibe at a time.
Wonderland Adventure23 - 25 May - It’s time to hop on board the Chattanooga Choo Choo as the East Lancashire Railway gets set to journey back in time to the fabulous forties this Spring Bank Holiday Weekend!
Partner of Visit Lancashire 2018
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Rawtenstall, Rossendale
Buffer Stops Bar, RossendaleSited at Rawtenstall Station, Buffer Stops offers five ales and one real cider on handpump, a range of lagers, continental beers, traditional pub snacks and locally sourced pies. This cosy bar welcomes both visitors and locals with a friendly atmosphere.
East Lancashire Railway Weddings, RossendaleThe East Lancashire Railway provides a memorable and quirky wedding experience, with a wide range of options and locations from receptions aboard dining trains and the luxury Observation Saloon to photo opportunities on the footplate.
Dining with Distinction at East Lancashire Railway, RossendaleEnjoy first class service and fine dining behind one of our historic steam engines whilst journeying through the charming Lancashire countryside soaking up the picturesque panoramas as you go.
Bury Transport Museum, RawtenstallThe industrial heritage of the north west is brought to life before your very eyes.
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