Now carrying over 120,000 passengers a year, the East Lancashire Railway was established in 1846 and continues to be one of Bury's most visited tourist attractions. The line is over 12 miles long and runs between Heywood and Rawtenstall, with scenic views as the trains cross the River Irwell and continue climbing up the valley.

The East Lancashire Railway provides much more than just rail transport services; it has an ongoing programme of events and is one of Bury's premier tourist attractions. With affordable fares and availability for children's activities and parties, the East Lancs Railway is an ideal choice for family days out and attractions. 

Luxury Steam-Hauled Dining Services

Pullman style coaches on the East Lancs Railway have been carefully restored to offer passengers a relaxing and comfortable environment for enjoying excellent food and drink. Trains pass through the beautiful Irwell Valley, making the East Lancs Railway the ideal venue for any occasion, from a romantic dinner for two to entertaining corporate clients.

In the restaurants you can choose from a wide selection of lovingly prepared food, including the Red Rose Diner and The Lancastrian Lunch. Restaurants on board the East Lancs Railway can also cater for dietary requirements and stock a selection of both alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks.

Driving Experience Courses

The East Lancashire Railway are giving you the opportunity to get into the driver's seat of our main line steam and diesel locomotive trains! With courses throughout the year at affordable prices, this is one of Bury's most unique tourist attractions.

Complimentary tea and biscuits are served whilst you register, and after splitting into two groups, you will enjoy a round trip between Bury and Ramsbottom driving, firing and guarding. A guided tour around the Locomotive Works, Carriage Restoration Works and Bury South Signal box is included in the price, along with a commemorative certificate of your experience on the trains.

Children's Parties and Activities

As well as being able to cater for large groups and private venue hire, The East Lancs Railway specialises in children's activities and parties for every occasion. With party rates available to suit all budgets and requirements, the East Lancs Railway has both carriages and trains for hire for both activities and private functions.

Jimmy the Jinty

The East Lancs Railway is also the home of Jimmy the Jinty 47324, which was built in 1926 in Glasgow. Jimmy the Jinty is one of only ten "jinty's" that have survived into preservation from the 422 that were originally built between 1924 and 1930. Jimmy the Jinty is a perfect venue for children's activities and parties as he has a song and several books have been written about his exciting adventures.

East Lancashire Railway Shop

All proceeds from sales at the East Lancashire Railway shop goes towards maintaining the railway for passengers to enjoy. The shop stocks a huge range of model railway items from well-known makers such as Hornby and Bachmann, traditional hand-made sweets, biscuits and preserves. 

Train Information and Companies

The East Lancs Railway is constantly seeking to improve and enhance the service they provide to passengers. As well as their exciting programme of events and activities, The East Lancs Railway are restoring Bury Transport Museum and a 42765 Hughes-Fowler "Crab", both of which are expected to be completed in 2010.

Operating every weekend throughout the year and mid-week during May to September, The East Lancs Railway is one of Bury's most affordable and enjoyable tourist attractions, with over 120,00 visitors annually.

Trains have buffet facilities on board, all stations have wheelchair access and there are discounts for groups using rail transport services on the ELR.

For rail transport and services, trains, restaurants, tourist attractions, train information and companies and children's activities and parties, The East Lancashire is Bury's first choice.

Contact Details

Bolton Street Station
Bury
BL9 0EY

0333 320 2830 (10am-4pm) 

To email The East Lancashire Railway or to visit the website please use the links at the top of this page.