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Go batty for our Halloween Celebration of the Year of the Bat!
Thursday 30, Friday 31 October, Saturday 1 November 2025
Are you ready for a fang-tastically frightening time on board our Halloween Ghost Trains? Count Brian the Vampire, his trusted henchman Bogeye and the whole monster squad are just dying to meet you at the East Lancashire Railway to celebrate the Year of the BAT this October!
Legendary Monster Hunter Dr Hurtz Von Driver will be waiting to greet you as you arrive, and will share tales of his terrifying adventures before deciding if you have the right stuff to join the Monster Squad. You will then prove your bravery by passing through the Haunted Halloween Walkthrough to reach the Platform. (note, expect some jumpscares).
On the platform BE WARNED, unexpected singing and dancing could break out at any moment, led by Vampire Veronica and her groovy ghoulies. Here you will also find a Halloween BBQ offering a range of devilishly delicious treats so that you can make sure you’re fuelled up for the frights.
As soon as your spooky steam train pulls into the Platform you can hop on board and head into the dimming light as you join the terrifying tale of the “Blood Bat of Irwell Vale”. Don’t be too frightened, the Monster Squad will be there to protect you, with returning favourites like Zombie Bob who will make sure you have a FANGSTASTIC time!
Are you prepared for the scare?
Get a terrifying taste of things to come.
Meet the Monsters
Meet some of the friendly freaks and giggling ghouls that may be joining you on your journey.
(Please note, actual monsters may vary, do not feed the monsters, but feel free to ask them for a selfie!)
FAQs
Where do the Halloween Ghost Trains start?
All Halloween Ghost Trains start and end at Bury Bolton Street Station.
How long is the Halloween Ghost Train?
The round trip experience from Bury Bolton Street Station lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
Can I get off along the way?
Passengers must remain on board their Halloween Ghost Train at all times.
Do you have toilets on board the train?
Toilet facilities are available both on the train as well as on the Platform at Bury Bolton Street Station.
Where is the best place to park my car?
Bolton Street Station and the surrounding area has very limited parking. You can find further information on parking here.
What time should I arrive for my experience?
We recommend that you arrive at least 20 minutes before your Halloween Ghost Trains departure.
Will there be any food or drink available.
Bury Bolton Street Station has a well stocked Buffet on Platform 3 that will be serving drinks, snacks and warm pies as well as lots of goodies for the little ones. Refreshments are also available at the Trackside Bar in Bury (Platform 2).
There will also be a BBQ on Platform 3 and 4 at Bury Station.
Is the experience accessible for people with limited mobility?
Every Halloween Ghost Train has a specially adapted carriage for people who require wheel-chair assistance. To make a booking call 0333 320 2830 and we will do the rest for you.
What carriage is closest to the entrance to the event?
Whether you arrive onto the platform by the station steps or the accessible route, the closest carriage is Carriage A.
Ramp access can be arranged for those with limited mobility to board and disembark. Our accessible carriage is located in D.
Please note the accessible carriage can be booked over the phone by calling 0333 320 2830.
I need the assistance of a carer, do they need to pay?
The ELR offers one free carer ticket per party. Please contact our booking line on 0333 320 2830.
Are dogs allowed on the Halloween Ghost Trains?
Unfortunately we do not allow dogs on the Halloween Ghost Trains (excluding assistance dogs).
Substitution of Locomotives
While every effort is made to operate advertised services with the scheduled locomotive, the Company reserves the right to substitute the advertised locomotive with another heritage locomotive (steam or diesel) at its discretion and without prior notice.
Substitutions may be necessary for reasons including, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions (e.g., high fire risk), mechanical issues, operational constraints, or safety considerations.
Such substitutions shall not constitute a significant alteration of the service and do not entitle passengers to a refund, partial refund, compensation, or transfer, provided the advertised journey, catering provision (if applicable), and other core elements of the experience are fulfilled with reasonable care and skill.
By purchasing a ticket, passengers accept that locomotive substitutions are a recognised possibility inherent to the operation of heritage railways and do not diminish the service’s overall value when delivered per these terms.