December 2018

Soak up the spirit of the season in style with loco legend A4 60009 'Union of South Africa' as she returns to the East Lancashire Railway from 22 December - 30 December 2018. 

The Gresley Great will be hauling one of the Santa Special trains on 22, 23 and 24 December as well as running our standard services on 26, 29, 30 December. 

If you haven't booked Santa Specials tickets you can still enjoy a ride in our public carriage at normal fares.

Visit our Timetables & Fares page for more information.

*Please note that it will now be Black 5 44871 hauling steam services on New Years Day.

If you are a fan of heritage steam or vintage diesel then have we got an update for you! Our enthusiast events for 2019 have been announced! From Summer Steam to Sulzer Saturdays this line-up is sure to get your engine going! Click on each of the event titles below to find out more.

• Sulzer Theme Day. 16 Feb
• Spring Steam Gala. 8 - 10 Mar
• Summer Diesel Spectacular. 4 - 6 Jul
• English Electric Theme Day. 21 Sep
• Autumn Steam Gala. 18 - 20 Oct
• Scenic Railcar Day. 9 Nov

Whether you are an amateur snapper or an experienced shutterbug, our steam powered photography courses have something to offer you. Join expert guides from our partners at North West Photography Courses as they take you on a guided tour of the line teaching you tips and tricks to get the most out of your photography.

Each course includes hands on tuition, a trip on the train, a light lunch and a tour behind the scenes of the ELR to areas not ordinarily open to the public. Tickets cost £130 per person.

Book now.

3 Tables of four have just become available on the 12 December Festive Lunch, the last available Dining Experience of 2018!

Treat yourself to a traditional Christmas meal on board a luxury steam train and enjoy a fabulous three course meal. The menu features Spiced Tomato & Red Lentil Soup, Traditional Roast Turkey and Homemade Christmas Pudding.

Book Now

While a way a few hours on this quintessentially British experience as you indulge in a spot of Afternoon Tea. Serving a selection of delicious sandwiches, savouries, scones and of course cakes, there are few better ways to soak in the ambience of a heritage railway.

Each experience includes a beautiful 1 and ½ hour steam train ride through the Irwell Valley and a welcome glass of fizz alongside your confectionaries.

Dates for 2019 are now available to book online. Tickets cost £39 per person.

Book now.