Testimonials

“Excellent day was had by all. Good value for money- the kids received a present and activity bag, and the adults enjoyed a succulent mince pie and lovely, warming alcoholic beverage! Perfect for warming the cockles! The train carriage was warm and there was entertainment provided throughout the journey! Fab! ”

“What an incredible asset we have on our doorstep. The ELR provides incredible experiences for children and adults of any age and it's humbling and rewarding to be able to in some small way support the work of something that preserves something of immense historical significance so magnificently.”

“If you haven't been yet and have any interest in history, engineering, steam technology, rail travel or you have young kids who would appreciate one of the many child-themed events they host, just book a date in your diary and get fully involved.”

“The station and the engines are well kept. With attractions all year for all the family I would recommend it to anyone. If it's a pop into Ramsbottom via the train. Or if it's the famous Christmas railway express.”

“a trip back in time with the smells and sounds of the old steam railways.”

“It is a good trip out on the train and there are different places you can stop off along the way to shop or have a bite to eat or you can eat on the train at certain times.”

“Brilliant day, the professional photographer helped all of to use our respective cameras properly in order to take brilliant photos. He also showed us where to stand for the best pictures of the moving engines. We went around the area not open to the general public to take photos in the workshops and storage areas which are immense. I can highly recommend the experience.”

“A day out with Thomas at the East Lancashire Railway was a fantastic day for young children especially if they are fans of Thomas. Just going on the steam trains was a good experience. ”

“My mum who came with us also enjoyed the day as it brought back memories of her childhood holidays travelling on the train. Well worth a visit. Its a hidden gem in Bury, I'd have never thought of going if not for the Thomas day but we will definitely be returning for another visit. Staff also great, very friendly and made the day for the kids.”

“A highlight (apart from the locomotives ) was Bolton Street station and its platform pub. We spent most of a day sitting at a table having a beer, chatting to the locals and watching the trains go by. Thanks ELR for a great weekend.”

“Just returned from spending some time at the east lanc's 1940's weekend 2015. A wonderful day out and fantastic weather, it must take some organising an event like this and even though many off the staff are volunteers they appear to put their heart and soul in to it. please pass on my thanks to everyone concerned in the staging of the 1940's weekend including all the performers at stations along the route, it was money well spent!”

“ the volunteers who enable the railway to run are amazing and give the place a real authentic feel. Nothing was to much trouble and we all really enjoyed ourselves.”

“Travel on a genuine steam train and enjoy the sights,sounds and smells once more. Great experience and value for money.”

“Went on the murder mystery night with friends. Food was gorgeous just the right portions and to a high standard. Staff were lovely very helpful and polite. Entertainment was brilliant. Would recommend a night on the railway to everyone who wants good food and a fun night. Definitely will be returning.”

“Just come back after a fantastic meal on the train! A lovely time with family and exceptional meal! Staff are fantastic and the service was excellent! Such a unique experience and food was delicious! Would highly recommend!”

“We booked the Lancastrian lunch to celebrate my in laws golden wedding anniversary. The whole day was amazing! Lovely steam train, outstanding food and the most attentive staff we have ever seen. Thank you, would recommend to everyone, no matter what age.”

“A fabulous way afternoon to watch the world go by. Rarely do you come across a place, where ALL the staff (and volunteers!) were an absolute pleasure. Nothing was too much trouble and the service was efficient, as we booked a gluten free option in advance. The children were given much attention and the cream tea was a delight.”

“Having tried most Santa trains over the years in the area I’ve concluded that these guys do it the best. With a small army of helpers who genuinely seem to be enjoying themselves, the whole experience is excellently executed and very slick.”

“A fantastic day! Driving the train, performing guard duties and coupling/uncoupling the class 50 locomotive. Excellent behind the scenes tour in the afternoon too. Friendly and professional staff and just an awesome day all round!!”

“Six of us went on the railway for a Valentines night dinner an had an amazing time. the whole atmosphere was lovely. The food was really nice and the staff were friendly. could not fault it and will definitely be doing it again, I can highly recommend it”

“Myself and 9 colleagues had a fabulous night last night on the festive diner. We met up in the Trackside Pub on the Bury platform an hour before departure and sampled some of the many real ales. Boarded the train at 7.30pm which was spotlessly clean and in all its original splendour with added festive decor. The food was piping hot and delicious and even the chef did a walk through after the meal to see all the passengers. Everyone agreed it was the best and most novel Xmas do we had ever been on. Highly recommend.”

“Nice trains, big and shiny, lots of steam and nice noise, long enough track too feel had a ride!”

“Went on the Rail Ale Trail this weekend. Superb trip the guide was fantastic and we were actually treated to a Steam Trail experience. The beer was excellent in the various locations visited. The trip was everything I expected and more. The food was good at the pub we stopped at for dinner, as was the beer on offer. Would recommend this to anyone. ”

“This is a wonderful experience from the moment you step on the train. The tables are beautifully set, the waiters and waitresses are pleasant and helpful. The quality of food is excellent, with plenty of it. You can order drinks and wine at the table too.”

“Took my mum and dad yesterday with my husband. Absolutely perfect from start to finish. The staff both on and off the train were so friendly. The tables were beautifully set and the meal was excellent.Thank you to everyone who made this day so wonderful.”

“Love this place great family day out keep coming back with the kids to different events though out the year for years now.”

“Use the excuse that the grand children will love it. They will but so will you. ”

“Very professional and friendly service from everyone. Food, service and the journey were literally First Class from start to finish. The serving staff brought Mum's birthday cake to her and all sang Happy Birthday and even provided her with a card. They made a 90yr old feel like a princess Thank you so much for this experience.”

“A fabulous way afternoon to watch the world go by. Rarely do you come across a place, where ALL the staff (and volunteers!) were an absolute pleasure. Nothing was too much trouble and the service was efficient, as we booked a gluten free option in advance. The children were given much attention and the cream tea was a delight too.”

“Children will love it as trains are no longer like this. Look out for the themed weekends such as Thomas The Tank Engine. A visit to the Transport Museum in Bury is also a must.”

“The superb restoration of the carriages takes you effortlessly back to another era.”

“The staff are knowledgable and very pleasant. If they don't know an answer to a question they'll endeavour to get it for you. Food and drink are available in Bury and Rawtenstall. You can break your journey at Ramsbottom, the station is very close to the town.”

“Great day out travelling up and down the valley from Rawtenstall to Bury. Ramsbottom is a great place to drop of a walk around the local shops and the many bars and restaurants in the town. Plenty to see and do with a great variety of trains and rolling to see with helpful volunteer staff at all the stops along the way. ”

“We had a nice family trip out on Good Friday on this wonderful railway line. All the staff and volunteers are so helpful and interested in who you are and what is happening! The buffet on the platform was excellent and great coffee/teas and pies at Bury.”

“Since my childhood I've had a passion for steam engines but never got to drive one. My family corrected this by treating me to a "driver for the day" package where I was the guard, the fireman and the driver...”

“The staff (all volunteers) work so hard to make this a great day and to keep this railway operational. There are regular events at weekends so check their web site before you visit. ”