[@]East Lancashire Railway - Heritage Railway

East Lancashire Railway

Relive the Classic Railway Steam Era

The East Lancashire Railway is the North West’s premier heritage railway, located in the heart of Bury and is easily accessible by public transport.

The award winning railway spans a twelve mile line through the beautiful Irwell Valley, from Heywood in the east to Rawtenstall in the north, passing through Bury, Summerseat, Ramsbottom and Irwell Vale along the way.

There are plenty of things to see and do around the line and stations are well equipped with cafés, real ale pubs, gift shops and a dedicated Transport Museum, which houses vintage vehicles, transport memorabilia and interactive exhibits.

Looking for something different when visiting the city? Well how about a trip back in time to sample the sophistication of dining by steam train?

Classic Dining, Cafes and Great Beer

The railway runs regular steam engine hauled luxury dining excursions where passengers can relax in the opulent surrounds of Orient Express style carriages and indulge in a fine dining experience.

Choose from a range of menus; from a four course, silver service evening diner to a quintessentially British Afternoon Tea.

If fine ale is more your thing well you are in luck as the railway boasts two CAMRA award winning real ale pubs.

‘The Trackside’ is located on Platform 2 at Bury Bolton Street Station and has a large beer garden overlooking the line with up to twelve real ales and twelve ciders ready to try.

‘Buffer Stops’ is a cosy bar at Rawtenstall Station and is great place to try out some of the area’s most popular real ales whilst watching the engines run round.

Those looking to sample a range of ales from the local area should hop aboard the “Rail Ale Trail” for a guided tour through the area’s history and most excellent pubs, it even includes a steam train ride.

Special Events and Children Focused

The railway also has a busy calendar of events, whether you’re looking to entertain the little ones with a visit to see Thomas the Tank Engine or Peppa Pig or fancy soaking up a bit of nostalgia with the railway’s mighty steam galas or award winning 1940’s Weekend.