Autumn at the East Lancashire Railway
The seasons may be changing, but the adventure is just getting started at the East Lancashire Railway!
From steam-filled enthusiast events and special journeys to spooky Halloween adventures and family fun, there’s something for everyone to look forward to throughout autumn and winter.
With an exciting line-up of events on the way, there’s no better time to plan your next visit. Discover what’s coming up and make the most of the season with us.
So keep reading, and make your Autumn awesome at ELR.
Autumn Steam Gala
16 – 18 Oct 2026
Climb aboard for a weekend of steam-powered adventure. Enjoy the chance to travel along the line behind the railway’s impressive home fleet alongside special guests Urie S15 No. 30506, GWR Pannier Tank No. 7714 and SECR 01 No.65.
Make your visit even more memorable by adding an extra-special experience, from fish and chip trains and cream teas to exclusive brake van rides and footplate experiences.
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Wizard Adventure
29, 30 Oct 2026
Add some enchantment to your Halloween celebrations with quirky professors and plenty of spells, surprises, and hands-on magical fun.
Learn spellbinding tricks, test your wand skills, and meet Felix the Phoenix and Twoo the Owl.
Young witches and wizards won’t want to miss this spellbinding experience.
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Halloween Ghost Trains
29, 30, 31 Oct 2026
Board the scream train… if you dare!
Something strange is stirring along the tracks. Join Zombie Bob and the Monster Squad on a terrifying journey to uncover the truth behind the Swamp Monster of Irwell Vale.
With a spooky walkthrough, creepy characters and a darker-than-ever Scream Train, are you brave enough to face what lurks in the shadows?
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Resident’s Pass
Make the railway part of your autumn adventures with exclusive discounted travel for local residents.
Explore your favourite stations and enjoy journeys along the line for less. It’s the perfect way to stay connected with your local community and enjoy more great days out on your doorstep.
This offer is available to residents of Rochdale, Bury and Rossendale.
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Shop ’til you drop this Autumn
Make Christmas shopping part of the adventure with the East Lancashire Railway. Enjoy a journey through the Lancashire countryside aboard a heritage train, while discovering and supporting local businesses along the way.
Get ahead with your Christmas shopping and make a day of it with us.
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The Trackside
Warm up this autumn at The Trackside.
Whether you’re stopping by for a relaxing pint or tucking into some hearty pub grub, it’s the perfect place to unwind before or after your journey.
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Buffer Stops
The bustling Buffer Stops Bar is located at the end of the line in Rawtenstall, and it’s well worth the trip!
It offers a bonanza of beverages including five real ales and one real cider, as well as a variety of lagers, continental beers and traditional pub snacks.
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