Something very strange is happening along the tracks of the East Lancashire Railway this Halloween…
For weeks, locals have reported hearing strange splashing, deep growling, and terrifying screams echoing from the dark waters and misty fields around Irwell Vale. Then came the sightings: a huge, shadowy creature creeping through the swamp, leaving behind giant footprints, dripping slime, and a trail of destruction. The locals are calling it the Swamp Monster of Irwell Vale!
Join Zombie Bob and his friendly Monster Squad as they attempt to discover the truth. Is there really a Swamp Thing out there, or is someone playing a spooky Halloween trick?
ELR Ghost Train experience
The footbridge walkthrough: Before joining the Monster Squad, prove you have what it takes by surviving the interactive walkthrough on the footbridge. Expect jump scares!
Platform pre-show: Once on the platform, meet Halloween favourites Vampire Brian and Veronica the Witch. They’ll prepare you for your terrifying trip with songs, dances, and a scream or two.
The Scream Train: Dress in your finest fancy dress, gather your bravest friends, and step aboard. This year, the Scream Train is darker than ever with flickering lights, eerie sounds, creepy surprises… and perhaps a very unwelcome visitor climbing aboard.
Only with the help of the Monster Squad will you make it safely back to Bury—because once those doors close, there is no escaping the Scream Train!
Travel and parking: Heywood shuttle service
Spare yourself the nightmare of finding a parking space in bustling Bury. Park easily at Heywood’s large car park and catch one of the DMU shuttle services straight to the event. Timetables allow ample time to board your ghost train and include return travel back to Heywood.
Heywood shuttle departure (Bury Halloween train departure)
16:55 (17:30)
18:20 (19:00)
19:50 (20:30)
Shuttle fares
- Adult: £3.50
- Child (3–17): £2.50
The Halloween shuttle is exclusively for passengers travelling on the Halloween ghost trains. A valid Halloween ghost train ticket must be presented alongside your shuttle ticket.
ELR Halloween ghost train: The Swamp Monster of Irwell Vale takes place on 29, 30 and 31 October 2026, setting off from Bury Bolton Street station.
You can find out more information and book tickets here.
