Resident’s Permit
Resident Freedom Ticket 2026 – Bury, Rochdale & Rossendale
For a initial joining fee of £5, covering a 2 year period, you can enjoy discounts of up to £16 on a Day Rover ticket. Explore all day, visit Bury Transport Museum and much more!
The East Lancashire Railway Resident Permit Scheme is our way of thanking those who love locally and support the railway throughout the year, available exclusively to residents of the boroughs of Rochdale, Bury and Rossendale.
The permit allows access to heavily discounted travel on standard running days, making it easy to enjoy the railway as often as you like – whether for a relaxed day out, a short hop between stations, or when welcoming visiting friends and family.
The scheme offers exceptional value and strengthens our connection with the local community, enabling residents to experience the railway as part of every day life rather than as a one-off attraction.
What the Resident Permit offers
- Access to resident-discounted Resident Freedom Ticket on timetabled services.
- Valid on operating days throughout the season.
- Exclusive to qualifying residents.
- Excellent value for regular visitors and supporters of the railway.
- Access to special offers and discounts.
Resident Permits are issued subject to proof of address and are for personal use by the named holder only. They are not valid for premium dining services or special events unless otherwise stated.
By joining the Resident Permit Scheme, you’re not only enjoying great-value travel – you’re also helping to support the ongoing charity work, preservation and operation of the East Lancashire Railway for future generations.
How to apply
Alternatively, apply by completing our Residents Permit Application form.
Resident Permits can be purchased online in advance or in person at the station.
If you purchase online
If you buy your permit online, you must bring the following with you to the station to complete issuance of your permit:
Your booking confirmation.
Proof of address, which must be one of the following:
A council tax bill, or
An official letter showing your name and address.
Valid photo ID, such as a passport or driving licence.
One passport-style photograph.
Permits will not be issued unless all required documents are provided.
If you purchase in person
If purchasing your permit at the station, please bring:
Proof of address (as listed above).
Valid photo ID.
One passport-style photograph.
Important information
Proof of address must be current and clearly show your name and address.
Photo ID must be valid.
Copies or photographs of documents may not be accepted.
The East Lancashire Railway reserves the right to refuse a permit if eligibility cannot be verified.
If you have any questions before purchasing, please get in touch with the booking office for advice.
Enjoy exploring and save on fares by joining our Resident’s Permit scheme for just £5 for a two-year period.
Resident’s Freedom Tickets – Includes unlimited travel all day and access to Bury Transport Museum, not available on special event days:
A £2.50 booking fee is applied per order, not per ticket. This fee is included in the total price shown before checkout. Any optional extras are clearly identified before you complete your purchase”
| Ticket | Resident Freedom Ticket Fare | Standard Day Rover Fare |
|---|---|---|
| Adult | £10.00 | £26.00 |
| Child/Young Person (3-17 years) | £5.00 | £22 (young person), £18 (child) |
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Find full terms and conditions here.
Check Timetables for train timings.
Each Resident Permit is issued to a single individual. Purchases cannot be made on behalf of a partner or another household member. The permit must be collected by the named purchaser with a valid photo ID. One permit per person applies.
