What better way to enjoy a traditional British Sunday Roast than being hauled by a vintage steam engine 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 steam hauled ride in Pullman style carriages through the beautiful Irwell Valley A sparkling wine welcome drink A three course, silver served traditional Sunday roast Tea or coffee and after dinner chocolate The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences at 12:45pm where you will be welcomed and advised of your table number and carriage. The journey lasts just under 2.5 hours with a departure time of 1pm. Important Information When making your booking, dietary requirements of Vegetarian, Vegan, Pescetarian, Gluten Free, Halal, Dairy Free, Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection by using the ticket option drop down menu. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.

Sit back and relax in our luxury Pullman 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 steam train ride through the Irwell Valley in our beautiful Pullman style carriages A two course classic British lunch Tea or coffee and dinner chocolate Selection of herbal, fruit and specialist teas available The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences 15 minutes before departure, where you will be welcomed and advised of your table number and carriage. The journey lasts just under 1.5 hours. Please Note: Departure will be 12:10 on 30th July, and 12:30 on 16th April and 29th October. All other departures are at 13:00. New for 2025 Dietary requirements of Vegetarian, Vegan, Pescetarian, Gluten Free, Halal, Dairy Free, Diabetic can now 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.

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 steam hauled train ride through the Irwell Valley in our stunning Pullman style carriages - A sparkling wine welcome drink - Entertainment from our Award winning Murder Mystery team; After Dark - A delicious three course meal - Tea or coffee and dinner chocolate - The dress code is smart/casual, however we do encourage dressing in relation to the theme.

Enjoy a culinary adventure paired to some amazing gins from around the world! Sample some botanical masterpieces and let your taste buds come alive! What's Included? A traditional steam hauled Pullman through the Irwell Valley A Prosecco/Gin Liquor welcome drink A four course, silver served meal A selection of gins from around the world, paired to each course by our experts at Kwoff Tea or coffee and dinner chocolate The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences at approximately 7:15pm with a prompt departure of 7:30pm. 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 10:15pm. New for 2025 Dietary requirements of Vegetarian / Vegan / Pescetarian / Gluten Free / Halal / Dairy Free / Diabetic can now 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.

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 steam hauled Pullman through the Irwell Valley A Prosecco 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 and dinner chocolate The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences at approximately 7:15pm with a prompt departure of 7:30pm. 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 10:15pm. New for 2025 When making your booking, dietary requirements of Vegetarian, Vegan, Pescetarian, Gluten Free, Halal, Dairy Free, Diabetic can be chosen after seat selection by using the ticket option drop down menu. Please note all Dining Services depart and return to Bury Bolton Street Station. Boarding is not permitted from any other station.

Step on board our luxury Pullman carriages and sample fine cuisine in opulent surroundings whilst being steam hauled through the Irwell valley. What's Included? A traditional steam hauled ride through the Irwell Valley in our beautiful Pullman style carriages A sparkling wine welcome drink A four course, silver served meal Tea or coffee and dinner chocolate The dress code is smart/casual. Boarding commences at approximately 7:15pm with a prompt departure of 7:30pm. 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 10:15pm. New for 2025 Dietary requirements of Vegetarian, Vegan, Pescetarian, Gluten Free, Halal, Dairy Free, Diabetic can now 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.

All the spoof and silliness along with fine dining and more madness and mayhem, what could possibly go wrong? What's Included? A traditional steam ride through the Irwell Valley in our stunning Pullman style carriages A sparkling wine welcome drink Entertainment from our Award winning team After Dark A delicious three course meal Tea or coffee and dinner chocolate The dress code is smart/casual, however we do encourage dressing in relation to the theme. Welcome commences at 6.15pm 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 of 10:15pm. New for 2025 Dietary requirements of Vegetarian/Vegan/Pescetarian/Gluten Free/Halal/Dairy Free/Diabetic can now 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.

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 strawberry champagne welcome with canapes Entertainment by live classical music and platform magician A traditional steam train ride through the Irwell Valley in our Pullman style carriages A four course, silver served meal with table magician Tea or coffee and dinner chocolate The dress code is formal black-tie/ball-gown. After checking in, the evening commences at 6:45pm 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 7:30pm and lasts just under 3 hours with a return time of 10:15pm. New for 2025 Dietary requirements of Vegetarian, Vegan, Pescetarian, Gluten Free, Halal, Dairy Free, Diabetic can now 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.

Join a rogue's gallery of vile villains on a journey to complete a dastardly quest. Your adventure includes a steam 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.

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 steam 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.

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 steam 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.

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 steam 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.

Climb aboard one of our steam or diesel trains on the ELR as we guide you through the history and heritage of the local area - with a particular focus on the region's long brewing traditions and the people who have shaped the towns and villages over the centuries. Does chugging through lush valleys and pretty villages, stopping at some of the finest drinking establishments en-route to sample a pint of locally brewed ale sound like the ideal way to spend a day? Then embark on this Rail Ale Trail and explore the fascinating history, heritage and hops that the area is home to. What's included? We will meet, board the train and alight at various stops. Your guide will interpret the area, point out landmarks and share stories about each location.   A stop for lunch with half a beer. Lunch is a set meal please advise if you have dietary needs. A bottle of local beer on the train. All other drinks you purchase yourself.  Important Information There is a twenty-minute walk. Please wear suitable footwear and clothing as the route is exposed. Tours depart from and return to Bury Bolton Street Station.

Climb aboard one of our steam or diesel trains on the ELR as we guide you through the history and heritage of the local area - with a particular focus on the region's long brewing traditions and the people who have shaped the towns and villages over the centuries. This tour takes you out into the countryside along the railway; we will hike along local trails, up hills and enjoy the stunning views along the Irwell Valley.  You will work up a thirst and an appetite; this tour is suitable for those with a love of a long walk and the great outdoors. What's included? We will meet, board the train and alight at various stops. Your guide will interpret the area, point out landmarks and share stories about each location. A mid-morning coffee stop or a bottle of beer on board the train (varies per tour). A stop for lunch with half a beer. Lunch is a set meal please advise if you have dietary needs. Important Information This tour involves walking along pavements, rough terrain, in woodland and up and down hills. Please wear suitable footwear with grip and clothes for the weather on the day. Tours depart from and return to Bury Bolton Street Station.

All Aboard For A Day Of Adventure! Activities Time to Party with Thomas the Tank Engine at the East Lancashire Railway. Spend the day creating family memories and celebrating 80 years of Thomas. There will be lots to enjoy all day, including: • A ride behind Thomas, a REAL steam engine! • Meet Diesel • Story telling and singalongs • Live performances from Rusty & Dusty and Sir Topham Hatt • Thomas & Friends activities within the Play Pod • Thomas & Friends character hunt • Thomas & Friends garden games • Thomas & Friends giveaways for every child • Additional scenic train rides • Fun fair rides • Balloon modelling • Face painting 2025 Event Dates 3rd - 5th May 2nd - 3rd August 4th - 5th October Faqs How long are the Thomas rides? All Thomas rides are approximately 45 minutes long and depart from Bury Bolton Street Station only. Do I need to book my Thomas ride? Yes, please book your preferred time and seat. One Thomas ride is permitted per ticket and you must only board the train at the time that you have prebooked. What does my Day Out with Thomas ticket include? Your ticket includes ALL the activities included in the activity section above. Will there be other Thomas & Friends characters at the event? Yes. Diesel, Sir Topham Hatt and Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty will also be there! Do children under two require a ticket? No, children under two sitting on a parent or guardian's lap attend for free and do not require a ticket on the Thomas train. Are children under two allocated a seat on the train? No, children under two are not allocated a seat on the train and should be sat on a parent or guardian's lap. If you would like an allocated seat for a child under two, please select a child ticket. Can I stay all day? Yes, activities are available to visitors all day. Please visit the East Lancashire Railway's website for exact timings for each day. Remember you must be ready to board the Thomas train at your prebooked time slot (this is printed on your e-ticket). Will there be other trains available to travel on? Yes. In addition to your Thomas train ride, you can explore the full route of the East Lancashire Railway, between Heywood and Rawtenstall. Travel is included with your Day Out With Thomas ticket and services include: • Additional steam-hauled train, operating between Bury and Rawtenstall. • Scenic diesel railcar running between Bury and Heywood. Either start your day at Heywood and take the train to Bury, or if you start your day at Bury, board the heritage diesel train for a return journey to Heywood. Will refreshments be available to purchase? Drinks and snacks will be available at Bury Station and Bury Transport Museum. Trackside and Bufferstops Pubs will also be open. Are you able to accommodate Wheelchairs? Yes. We have a large compartment to accommodate wheelchair users and their family. Please book by contacting Quaytickets on 0343 208 1841. Do you have special pricing for carers? Yes, for any visitors with access needs who require a carer we offer one free carer ticket per full price ticket. Please book by contacting Quaytickets on 0343 208 1841. Proof of status will need to be provided on arrival at the railway. Ticket Prices Adult: £22.70 Child 2-17: £13.50 Child Under 2: FREE Carer: FREE Family of 3 (1 Adult, 2 Children): £44.40 Family of 3 (2 Adults, 1 Child): £53.90 Family of 4 (2 Adults, 2 Children): £66 (Family discount applied automatically at check-out) Prices listed above exclude booking fees. Railway Information Opening Times 09:00 - 17:00 Parking Please note Bury Council employs the services of car parking wardens, so please ensure sufficient coverage of your ticket. Why not start your journey at Heywood? Parking is FREE and you can ride the regular shuttle service to Bury Station for Day Out With Thomas. Address The East Lancashire Railway Bury Bolton Street Station Bury Lancashire Bl9 0Ey [Mattel] Day Out With Thomas™ ©2024 Gullane (Thomas) Limited.

It's the last large scale steam event of the year, so make sure to mark it in your calendar! Climb aboard for a weekend of steam powered glory with the East Lancashire Railway's popular Autumn Steam Gala. This is your chance to ride up and down the line behind the railway's incredible home fleet, and maybe even a guest or two.

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!

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.

Santa Clause is coming to town! The East Lancashire Railway is putting on a Santa Special train exclusively designed for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Join Father Christmas, his happy helpers and other festive characters on a voyage through the Irwell Valley. You will enjoy all the magic and wonder of our Santa Specials with a few tweaks here and there to make it more accessible. Begin your adventure at Bury Bolton Street Station and enjoy the atmosphere and decorations before boarding your train. Characters will be wandering the platform to wave hello or even stop for a chat and a photo if you like! Once on board and settled into your seat, a steam train will haul you to Ramsbottom and back on an approximately 80-minute round trip. On the way you'll meet more Christmassy characters and have the option to listen to a live brass band. Before long Santa himself will visit your carriage with a gift for every little one. What Makes the event SEND friendly? To make the event as welcoming and comfortable as possible to children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities, the SEND Family Santa Special will feature: A Quieter Experience: Reduced musical volume and visual stimuli, toned down characters, and no flashing lights ensures that your visit will not be overwhelming. Alternative Access: Don't want to cross the footbridge? No problem! Chaperoned outdoor access will be provided for those that wish to make use of it. Wider Arrival Window: No need to rush. Your train will be waiting on the platform for an extended period prior to departure. Board when you want to. Special Calm Carriages: Calm Carriages A & G will offer a quieter experience, and not include a live performance from the Brass Band. Tell Us What You're Comfortable With: Facility to tell our performers what level of interaction you are happy with. An Accessible Coach: Offering accommodation for 2 wheelchairs and 6 accompanying people. Carers Book Online: One registered carer can travel for free for each paying passenger needing assistance. You can book these tickets online. Please bring ID on the day. A Quick Exit: Following your train ride, use our quick exit from the platform to avoid passengers arriving for the next departure. Ticketing Information You must select Child or Adult tickets at time of purchase, by using the ticket drop down menu for each seat selected. Please choose a Child ticket of the appropriate age, as this is related to the present they will receive.

Santa Claus is coming to town! Meet Father Christmas on this seasonal spectacular that is a long-time favourite of families in the North West. Enter the event through our beautifully decorated winter wonderland, meet lots of different Christmas Characters like the Ice Princess and Mrs Claus, then board your train for a magical trip along the East Lancashire Railway.  During your journey you will meet more characters, listen to a traditional brass band and even be visited by Santa himself! Little ones will receive a gift from Santa whilst grown ups will get a festive tipple and a mince pie.