The List

East Lancashire Railway

The East Lancashire Railway is a lovingly restored heritage railway sited deep in the heart of Lancashire. Take a relaxing steam or diesel ride along the 12 mile line, stopping off at one of the seven stations to explore the variety of cultural and historical attractions on offer.

What's On @ East Lancashire Railway

Lancastrian Luncheon

Lancastrian Luncheon

1 Mar 2026 - 22 Nov 2026

What better way to enjoy your Sunday than with a classic British Sunday Roast than being hauled by a traditional locomotive along our heritage railway? Let us take care of the cooking and cleaning while you enjoy freshly prepared fayre on board our luxurious Pullman style carriages! What's Included? - A traditional locomotive hauled ride in Pullman style carriages - A three course, traditional Sunday roast - Tea or coffee The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences 20 minutes prior to departure at 12:30pm where you will be welcomed and advised of your table number and carriage. The journey lasts approximately 2.5 hours. Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/Vegan/Pescetarian/Gluten Free/Halal/Dairy Free/Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative menu choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Murder Mystery Evening

Murder Mystery Evening

27 Feb 2026 - 18 Dec 2026

All the clues and mystery for a date with death! Can you solve the clues to uncover the culprit? Let us wine and dine you while our award winning actors take you through your sleuthing skills to see if you have what it takes to solve the murder! What's Included? A traditional locomotive hauled train ride along our heritage railway in Pullman style carriages Entertainment from our Award winning Murder Mystery team; After Dark A delicious three course meal Tea or coffee The dress code is smart/casual, however we do encourage dressing in relation to the theme.
Midweek Luncheon

Midweek Luncheon

8 Apr 2026 - 28 Oct 2026

Sit back and relax in our luxury Pullman style carriages while we serve up some traditional hearty British classics. Meander through the Irwell valley while we take care of all the cooking and cleaning! What's Included? - A traditional locomotive hauled style Pullman train along our heritage railway. - A two course classic British lunch - Tea or coffee The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences 20 minutes before departure at 12:30pm, where you will be welcomed and advised of your table number and carriage. The journey lasts just under 1.5 hours. Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/Vegan/Pescetarian/Gluten Free/Halal/Dairy Free/Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative dessert choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Wine Tasting Diner

Wine Tasting Diner

21 Mar 2026 - 7 Nov 2026

Enjoy a culinary adventure expertly paired to fine wines from around the world! Sample some international masterpieces and let you inner sommelier broaden the palate and liven your taste buds! What's Included? A traditional locomotive hauled Pullman along our heritage railway A sparkling welcome drink A four course, silver served meal A selection of wines from around the world, expertly paired to each course by our experts at Kwoff Tea or coffee The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences at approximately 6:45pm with a prompt departure of 7pm. You will be advised of your table number and carriage when welcomed aboard. The journey lasts just under 3 hours with a return time of 10pm. Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/Vegan/Pescetarian/Gluten Free/Halal/Dairy Free/Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative menu choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Red Rose Diner

Red Rose Diner

6 Mar 2026 - 20 Nov 2026

Step on board our luxury Pullman carriages and sample fine cuisine in opulent surroundings whilst being hauled through the Irwell valley behind an historic locomotive. What's Included? A traditional locomotive hauled ride through the Irwell Valley in our beautiful Pullman style carriages A four course, silver served meal Tea or coffee The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences at approximately 6:45pm with a prompt departure of 7pm. You will be advised of your table number and carriage when welcomed aboard. The journey lasts just under 3 hours with a return time of 10pm. Dietary requirements can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative menu choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Allo Allo Comedy Night

Allo Allo Comedy Night

28 Mar 2026 - 9 Oct 2026

All the spoof and silliness along with fine dining and more madness and mayhem, what could possibly go wrong? What's Included? A traditional locomotive hauled journey in Pullman style carriages along our heritage railway. Entertainment from our Award winning team After Dark. A delicious three course meal. Tea or coffee. The dress code is smart/casual, however we do encourage dressing in relation to the theme. Welcome commences at 6.10pm from where you will be directed to the opening scene with a prompt start time of 6:30pm. You will be advised of your table number and carriage upon arrival. The journey lasts just under 3 hours with a return time shortly before 10pm. Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/Vegan/Pescetarian/Gluten Free/Halal/Dairy Free/Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative menu choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Mother’s Day Lunch

Mother’s Day Lunch

15 Mar 2026 - 15 Mar 2026

What better way to enjoy your Mother's Day than with a classic British Sunday Roast than being hauled by a traditional locomotive along our heritage railway. Let us take care of the cooking and cleaning while you enjoy freshly prepared fayre on board our luxurious Pullman style carriages! What's Included? A traditional locomotive hauled ride in Pullman style carriages A three course, traditional Sunday roast Tea or coffee The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences 20 minutes prior to departure at 12:30pm where you will be welcomed and advised of your table number and carriage. The journey lasts approximately 2.5 hours. Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/Vegan/Pescetarian/Gluten Free/Halal/Dairy Free/Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative menu choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Premium Night Diner

Premium Night Diner

9 May 2026 - 12 Sept 2026

As one of our flagship dining experiences, join us as we indulge you into the world of premium dining at the ELR. Enjoy a strawberry champagne and canape welcome as our classical musicians and magician entertain you on the platform before boarding our luxurious Pullman style carriages and enjoying fine cuisine! What's Included? A prosecco welcome with canapes Entertainment with live classical music, platform and table magician A traditional locomotive hauled ride through the Irwell valley along our heritage railway A four course, silver served meal Tea or coffee and dinner chocolate The dress code is formal black-tie/ball-gown. After checking in from 6pm, the evening commences at 6:15pm with a prosecco and canape welcome, along with live music. You will be advised of your table number and carriage upon arrival. The journey begins at 7pm and lasts just under 3 hours with a return time of 10pm. Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/Vegan/Pescetarian/Gluten Free/Halal/Dairy Free/Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative menu choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Diesel Lancastrian Luncheon

Diesel Lancastrian Luncheon

5 Jul 2026 - 5 Jul 2026

What better way to enjoy your Sunday than with a classic British Sunday Roast than being hauled by a diesel locomotive along our heritage railway. Let us take care of the cooking and cleaning while you enjoy freshly prepared fayre on board our luxurious Pullman style carriages! What's Included? A traditional diesel hauled journey in Pullman style carriages A three course, traditional Sunday roast Tea or coffee The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences 20 minutes prior to departure at 12:30pm where you will be welcomed and advised of your table number and carriage. The journey lasts approximately 2.5 hours. Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/Vegan/Pescetarian/Gluten Free/Halal/Dairy Free/Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative menu choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Father’s Day Lunch

Father’s Day Lunch

21 Jun 2026 - 21 Jun 2026

What better way to enjoy your Father's Day than with a classic British Sunday Roast than being hauled by a traditional locomotive along our heritage railway. Let us take care of the cooking and cleaning while you enjoy freshly prepared fayre on board our luxurious Pullman style carriages! What's Included? A traditional locomotive hauled ride in Pullman style carriages A three course, traditional Sunday roast Tea or coffee The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences 20 minutes prior to departure at 12:30pm where you will be welcomed and advised of your table number and carriage. The journey lasts approximately 2.5 hours. Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/Vegan/Pescetarian/Gluten Free/Halal/Dairy Free/Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative menu choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Diesel Midweek Luncheon

Diesel Midweek Luncheon

29 Jul 2026 - 26 Aug 2026

Sit back and relax in our luxury Pullman style carriages while we serve up some traditional hearty British classics. Meander through the Irwell valley while we take care of all the cooking and cleaning! What's Included? A diesel hauled style Pullman train along our heritage railway. A two course classic British lunch Tea or coffee The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences 20 minutes before departure at 12:30pm, where you will be welcomed and advised of your table number and carriage. The journey lasts just under 1.5 hours. Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/Vegan/Pescetarian/Gluten Free/Halal/Dairy Free/Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative dessert choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Day Out With Thomas at East Lancashire Railway
All Aboard For A Day Of Adventure! Enjoy a full day of fun with the whole family, there's so much to do. Your ticket includes all the activities listed below plus, Thomas & Friends™ giveaways for every child! • Hop onboard for a ride behind Thomas, a REAL steam engine! • Meet Diesel • Say hello to Sir Topham Hatt • Watch the exciting live shows with Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty • Explore and have fun in the Thomas & Friends music corner • Join in the Thomas & Friends character hunt • Play with the Thomas & Friends garden games • Listen to the Thomas & Friends storytelling sessions • Have fun in the Play Pod with the Thomas & Friends toys, arts and crafts • Capture your family memories with the Thomas & Friends photo opportunities • Choose from 4 funfair rides, all suitable for toddlers • Have your face painted (over 2 year's old only) • Learn how to make a musical instrument in the creative workshops • Enjoy additional scenic train rides • Pop along to the Thomas & Friends gift shop
Travel to Wonderland

Travel to Wonderland

27 May 2026 - 12 Aug 2026

You're late, you're late, for a very important date! It's time to take a tumble down the Rabbit Hole for a curious adventure through Wonderland with Alice and her friends. Your adventure includes a train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and back, a roughly two-hour Wonderland experience with colourful characters, themed activities and plenty of photo opportunities. It's the perfect adventure for the whole family.
The Wizarding Adventure

The Wizarding Adventure

9 Apr 2026 - 30 Oct 2026

It's time to sign up to our spellbinding school of sorcery as you take a wacky and wonderful whistle stop tour of the Wizard Academy and learn to become a master of mystery and magic. Your adventure includes a train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and back, a roughly two-hour wizard experience with our madcap magicians, wizard themed activities and plenty of photo opportunities.
The Dino Adventure

The Dino Adventure

29 May 2026 - 7 Aug 2026

Have you ever wanted to pet a pachycephalosaurus, get together with a Triceratops or tickle a T-Rex under the chin? Your adventure includes a train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and back, a roughly two-hour dino experience with our professional dinosaur handlers, themed activities and plenty of photo opportunities.
Villain Academy

Villain Academy

8 Apr 2026 - 13 Aug 2026

Join a rogue's gallery of vile villains on a journey to complete a dastardly quest. Your adventure includes a train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and back, a roughly two-hour Villain experience with colourful characters, themed activities and plenty of photo opportunities. It's the perfect adventure for the whole family. Important Information: Meet at Bury Bolton Street Station to start your adventure.  Please arrive 20 minutes prior to departure, and allow plenty of time for parking. Wheelchair users wishing to book our Accessible Compartment, or customers with other access needs, please call the booking line on 0333 320 2830.
Goldilocks and Friends Teddy Bear Adventure
If you go down to the woods today, you'll be sure of an amazing surprise! The Magic of Fairytales and Nursery Rhymes comes to life around you as Goldilocks and her friends tell tales of their adventures and introduce you to the cute and cuddly creatures who live with them in the forest of dreams. Your adventure includes a train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and back, a roughly two-hour fairytale experience with Goldilocks and her furry friends, themed activities and plenty of photo opportunities.
Drive A Steam Train Experience

Drive A Steam Train Experience

13 Mar 2026 - 23 Oct 2026

Bring your childhood dreams to life as you step onto the footplate of a full-sized, fully operational heritage steam train and take control of the magnificent engine. A steam train driving experience on the East Lancashire Railway is exactly that. Your chance to drive a real, historic steam train. You'll learn all about the engineering and controls, spend time practising with our current drivers, firemen and firewomen, and then become a part of the crew yourself. During this hands-on, intensive, full day experience, we'll take you behind the scenes on the ELR, showing you places that the general public never gets to see. You'll enjoy a hot lunch and then we'll put you behind the controls of one of our heritage steam engines to fire, guard and drive the train yourself. Book this once in a lifetime steam train driving experience - an extra special treat for yourself or an unforgettable gift for a loved one. What's included Drive a steam train on the ELR and you'll: • Get a full safety briefing with the crew • Drive a steam train for 8 miles • Fire a steam train for 8 miles • Guard for 8 miles, then relax and enjoy travelling as a passenger for 8 miles • Enjoy a hot lunch (One guest allowed per participant. Extra charge of £30.00 per lunch and guided tour.) • Join a half-day guided tour behind the scenes of the East Lancashire Railway • Have plenty of wonderful photo opportunities • Take home a commemorative certificate • You are more than welcome to add a guest to join you to travel onboard the carriage, join you at lunch and attend the guided tour.
Peter Rabbit

Peter Rabbit

3 Apr 2026 - 4 Apr 2026

The mischievous bob-tailed bunny, Peter Rabbit™, is coming to visit us at the Bury Transport Museum! Come and see Peter Rabbit at intervals on Friday 3rd & Saturday 4th April 2026. There will be even more family fun with three theme park rides suitable for toddlers, face painters and craft activities. Complete your day out with a ride aboard one of our heritage steam or diesel trains through Irwell Valley. Ticket price includes a ride on any train services on the day of your visit.
Peppa Pig

Peppa Pig

22 Aug 2026 - 22 Aug 2026

The East Lancashire Railway is thrilled to welcome back everyone's favourite cheeky little piggy. Come and meet Peppa Pig in the fantastic Bury Transport Museum at intervals on Saturday 22nd August 2026. Just pre-book your general admission ticket and pick a meet & greet slot that suits you. With no additional cost to general admission, the family fun continues with a cracking fun fair with three rides suitable for toddlers, face painters, craft activities and even a petting farm so that you can meet some farmyard friends.  Complete your day out with a ride aboard one of our heritage trains through the Irwell Valley. Ticket Price includes a ride on any train services on the day of your visit - no need to book separately just pick a time that suits you on the day!
Festive Lunch

Festive Lunch

25 Nov 2026 - 18 Dec 2026

What better way to enjoy a traditional roast turkey lunch with all the trimmings, than being hauled by a heritage locomotive through the Irwell Valley? Let us take care of the cooking and cleaning while you enjoy freshly prepared fare on board our luxurious Pullman style carriages! What's Included? A traditional locomotive hauled Pullman-style along our heritage railway A three course, traditional festive lunch Tea or coffee and Mince Pie The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences at 12:10pm where you will be welcomed and advised of your table number and carriage. The journey lasts approximately 2.5 hours with a departure time of 12:30pm and a return time of 3pm. Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/Vegan/Pescetarian/Gluten Free/Halal/Dairy Free/Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative dessert choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Bluey & Bingo

Bluey & Bingo

12 Sept 2026 - 12 Sept 2026

Wackadoo! The excitable sisters from Down Under are coming to visit us here at the Bury Transport Museum! See Bluey and Bingo at Bury Transport Museum at intervals on Saturday 12th September 2026. Don't forget to bring your cameras! There will also be a fun fair with three rides suitable for toddlers, face painters, petting zoo and craft activities for you and the family to enjoy, all included in the general admission ticket price. Complete your day out with a ride aboard one of our heritage steam or diesel trains through the Irwell valley. Ticket Price includes a ride on any train services on the day of your visit - just pick the time that suits you!
Festive Dinner

Festive Dinner

28 Nov 2026 - 23 Dec 2026

What better way to enjoy a festive dinner than being hauled by a vintage locomotive through the Irwell Valley?  Let us take care of the cooking and cleaning while you enjoy freshly prepared fayre on board our luxurious Pullman style carriages! What's Included? A traditional locomotive hauled Pullman style train travelling along our heritage railway A four course meal Tea or coffee The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences at approximately 6:45pm with a prompt departure of 7pm. You will be advised of your table number and carriage when welcomed aboard. The journey lasts approximately 2.5 hours with a return time of 9.30pm. Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/Vegan/Pescetarian/Gluten Free/Halal/Dairy Free/Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative menu choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Scotsman on Show at Heywood Station

Scotsman on Show at Heywood Station

3 Jun 2026 - 10 Jun 2026

Looking to get up close and personal with the engine herself? Head to Heywood Station for this educational session with the Scotsman. Not only will you be able to stand in the presence of this steam icon as she sits stationary at the platform, but ticket holders will also get to walk through the tender and look around the footplate. Please Note: Flying Scotsman will be on static display and not in motion.
Scotsman on Show at Bury Station

Scotsman on Show at Bury Station

4 Jun 2026 - 12 Jun 2026

Looking to get up close and personal with the engine herself? Head to Platform 2 at Bury Station for this educational session with the Scotsman. Not only will you be able to stand in the presence of this steam icon as she sits stationary at the platform, but ticket holders will also get to walk through the tender and look around the footplate. Please Note: Flying Scotsman will be on static display and not in motion.
Ride Flying Scotsman

Ride Flying Scotsman

5 Jun 2026 - 14 Jun 2026

The people's engine returns to the East Lancashire Railway! Its now over 100 years since this iconic, record-breaking steam engine entered service and in 2026 she will be revisiting the ELR. Visitors will be able to ride behind her as she travels the 16 mile return trip between Bury and Rawtenstall through the beautiful Irwell Valley. Become a part of this legendary locomotive's ongoing story and book now.
All Day Rover

All Day Rover

28 Feb 2026 - 15 Nov 2026

Fancy one of the best days out in the North West? Try our Day Rover Tickets, an amazing steam train day out including 12 miles of stunning scenery and 7 unique stops packed with things to do. Including not just the steam train ride, but also our historic waiting rooms, picture perfect platforms and of course a gift shop. A perfect family day out!
One Return Trip of the Full Line

One Return Trip of the Full Line

28 Feb 2026 - 15 Nov 2026

Fancy one of the best days out in the North West? Try our Day Rover Tickets, an amazing steam train day out including 12 miles of stunning scenery and 7 unique stops packed with things to do. Including not just the steam train ride, but also our historic waiting rooms, picture perfect platforms and of course a gift shop. A perfect family day out!
Family Explorer Rover

Family Explorer Rover

3 Apr 2026 - 1 Nov 2026

Enjoy a family day out on one of our special discount days! On these dates, your family group can enjoy even BIGGER savings with our Family Explorer Rover tickets. A perfect start to your voyage of discovery through the Irwell Valley! Take in the whole 12-mile line and hop on and off at any of the 7 quirky and unique station stops. You'll enjoy travelling on a genuine heritage train, see pretty station buildings and platforms, and have a perfect family day out!
Flying Scotsman VIP Diner

Flying Scotsman VIP Diner

5 Jun 2026 - 13 Jun 2026

Step on board our luxury Pullman carriages and sample fine cuisine in opulent surroundings whilst being hauled along our heritage railway behind Flying Scotsman. What's Included? A Flying Scotsman hauled ride in our beautiful Pullman style carriages A prosecco welcome with live music A four course meal Tea or coffee The dress code is formal black-tie/ball-gown. After checking in from 6pm, the evening commences at 6:15pm with a prosecco welcome, along with live music. You will be advised of your table number and carriage upon arrival. The journey begins at 7pm and lasts just under 3 hours with a return time of 10pm. Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/ Vegan/ Pescetarian/ Gluten Free/ Halal/Dairy Free/ Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection on the menu pop up, alongside any alternative menu choices and celebration fizz. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.
Legends of Steam III

Legends of Steam III

10 Apr 2026 - 12 Apr 2026

Climb aboard for our annual celebration of express steam! Our third ‘Legends of Steam' event give you a chance to ride up and down the line behind locomotive icons including: LNER A1, 60163 "Tornado" Built in Darlington in 2008 following the original LNER design, Tornado is an express steam locomotive for the 21st Centuary. This popular mainline performer appears courtesy of The A1 Steam Locomotive Trust. Southern Region Battle of Britain Class, 34070 "Manston" sister to our West Country Class, 34092 "City of Wells". Instantly recognisable by their ‘air-smoothed' flat sides, these Bulleid designed light-pacifics' are affectionately known as ‘spam cans'. Manston appears courtesy of Southern Locomotives Ltd and Swanage Railway. Children under sixteen years of age are only permitted to enter the company's trains, stations or other premises when accompanied by a responsible adult. Tickets for Children aged 3-15 years can only be purchased with an Adult ticket.
Caravan & Motorhome Club Member All Day Rover
Fancy one of the best days out in the North West? Caravan and Motorhome Club Members can take advantage of our special All Day Rover ticket offer, an amazing steam train day out including 12 miles of stunning scenery and 7 unique stops packed with things to do. Including not just the steam train ride, but also our historic waiting rooms, picture perfect platforms and of course a gift shop. A perfect family day out!

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