Looking for a family day out, whatever the weather? Try a trip on the East Lancashire Railway, whose 12 miles of track includes seven stations packed with things to do and see.
This fascinating route runs from Heywood near Bury, through Ramsbottom to the end of the line at Rawtenstall, with a long and rich heritage which began when the very first trains steamed into Bury Station in the 1840s. The development of the line and its stations was a key part of the Industrial Revolution in Lancashire, and it’sbeen at the heart of the area’s growth and identity ever since.
Just an eight minute stroll or short bus ride from Rawtenstall Bus Station, you’ll find yourself at the northern terminus of the East Lancashire Railway, standing on cobbled streets and surrounded by industrial heritage, historic architecture and dramatic landscapes.
At Rawtenstall station, Buffer Stops Bar serves up real ales and refreshing ciders, while the carriage café is the place to stop by for delicious cakes and sweet treat. And because you arrived by Rosso bus, there’s no parking charges or searching for that elusive parking space to hold up your day!
Trains run at weekends and on selected weekdays from March to October, with a year-round programme of events celebrating steam and diesel traction.
Our 481 and 483 buses both stop outside the railway station if you don’t fancy walking from Rawtenstall Bus Station – they also provide direct journeys from Blackburn (481) and Burnley (483).