Welcome to the
East Lancashire Railway

Our History

The ELR has a long and rich heritage, from all the way back when the very first trains steamed into Bury Station in the 1840s. The development of the line and all of its local railway stations was a key part of the Industrial Revolution in Lancashire, and it’s been an integral part of the area’s growth and identity ever since.

View our history

Meet the Locomotives

Discover who’s who on the East Lancashire Railway, and learn some amazing facts about each of our magnificent steam engines and dazzling diesels. Find out who’s currently hurtling up and down the lines of our heritage steam railway, who’s getting spruced up, and who’s just here on holiday or paying us a quick visit.

Meet the Locomotives

Support Us

We depend on your support. We keep our trains running and the ELR line open thanks to the generous help from our supporters and volunteers. Can we count on you too?

6 ways to help the elr

Experience the Flying Scotsman on the ELR

The ELR hosts many famous visitors all year round – don’t miss your chance to see the world’s most famous steam engine on its next visit.