February Half Term at East Lancashire Railway

Full Steam ahead this Feb

We hope everyone is feeling rested and ready to take a running leap into 2025, we know we are. We’re kicking things off with some half term hijinks that will gear your family up for the year of adventures that we have planned.

The wand waving wackos of the Wizard Academy will be celebrating their first day of term and Alice and friends will be taking another tumble down the Rabbit Hole in February. This year will also see the first visit from the mischievous Minions, Kevin and Bob.

If you and your family are the adventurous types that like to forge your own path, we have put together a couple of Itineraries that make for the ideal starting point for a day out in the Irwell Valley, whether you wanted to brave the great outdoors or indulge in some retail therapy.

Finally, if you need to fuel up during your day out, look no further than our own Trackside and Buffer Stops bars! If that doesn’t fill you up, we also have our Dining Experiences to look forward to, including a special Valentines one.

Keep reading to find out more.

Minions

21 Feb

The mischievous Minions are taking over the Bury Transport Museum. Come and meet Kevin and Bob, who will be appearing at intervals throughout the day in the fantastic Bury Transport Museum. There will be even more family fun with theme park rides, face painters and craft activities, as well as the opportunity to ride a heritage train.

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Wizard Academy Woman With Broom

The Wizarding Adventure

19 Feb

Sign up to the spellbinding school of sorcery and learn to master magic. During this enchanting interactive experience you’ll enjoy a journey through the Irwell Valley on board a heritage train. During the voyage you will meet our colourful characters and take part in themed activities to complete the story.

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Travel to Wonderland

20 Feb

Don’t be late for this very important date! Join Alice and her friends as they set out on a curious adventure through wonderland. You will ride on a heritage train and interact with all manner of strange characters, all whilst you complete activities and enjoy an interactive story.

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Explore the Great Outdoors

It’s still pretty brisk this time of year, but if you’re brave enough to take on the British weather there’s plenty to see and do. The rolling Lancastrian hills and the stunning views of the Irwell Valley serve as an open invitation to explore the region’s many treasures, from challenging hikes to impressive artworks and landmarks.

 

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Shop ‘Til you Drop

Explore the four fabulous market towns situated along the 12-mile line. You’ll find a near endless variety of independent shops, specialist boutiques and outdoor markets, including the Famous Bury Market, a traditional taste of town market life. It doesn’t end there, with Ramsbottom, Rawtenstall and Heywood each offering their own unique shopping experiences.

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Valentine’s Night Diner

14, 15 Feb 

Celebrate the most romantic of holidays in style by dining on-board a luxury steam-hauled train and treat a loved one to the ultimate date, whether it’s your first or your three hundredth! Soak up the atmosphere as you journey through both an opulent four course menu, and the beautiful Irwell Valley. Every aspect of your experience is catered for to the highest standards.

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Lancastrian Lunch

2, 9, 16, 23 Feb

Set out on a Sunday “Lancastrian Lunch” like no other. Once you board the elegant carriage on your heritage train you will enjoy sensational views and a menu featuring fresh local produce, truly the best of Lancashire. This experience is suitable for adults and children, making it perfect for a family get together.

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The Trackside

If there’s one thing we know about exploring, it’s best to do it with a full stomach. Thankfully the railway is host to an incredible bar and restaurant – The Trackside. Located right at the heart of things in Bury Station, it’s perfect no matter which stage of your journey you are at, whether you’re fuelling up to begin a day of adventure, stopping off for a quick snack as you pass by or finishing with a feast.

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Buffer Stops

Another must see stopping point along the ELR Line, the quaint little Buffer Stops Bar is cosily nestled within Rawtenstall Station, even incorporating part of the traditional waiting room into its seating area. If you fancy a snack or something to drink before heading back on the train for more adventure, then the Buffer Stops is for you.

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