Steam Services Temporarily Suspended 10 – 23 August 2026

Due to the current prolonged dry conditions and increased risk of lineside fires, the East Lancashire Railway has taken the decision, in conjunction with the Fire and Rescue Service, to suspend steam locomotive operation for the foreseeable future temporarily.

During this period, our scheduled services will continue to operate using heritage diesel locomotives, so visitors can still enjoy a journey along the East Lancashire Railway as planned.

This decision has been taken as a precaution to protect our passengers, staff, volunteers, neighbouring communities and the surrounding countryside. Existing tickets remain valid, and no action is required from customers. The only change will be the type of locomotive operating your service.

We appreciate that some visitors may specifically be looking forward to travelling behind a steam locomotive, and we are sorry for any disappointment this may cause. Safety must remain our priority. Steam services will resume as soon as conditions have improved sufficiently for us to operate them safely.

Thank you for your understanding and continued support.

A rail of a time for everyone

There’s always carriage loads of fun for all the family (and plenty to please the train buffs)
on the East Lancs Railway. Pop along any day you’d like, or join us for a special event.
Leave the car behind and climb aboard one of our incredible heritage steam trains
or dazzling diesels – there’s no better way to explore the great outdoors and
wonderful market towns of East Lancashire.