Get ready for three days of railway nostalgia as the East Lancashire Railway (ELR) presents its Autumn Steam Gala from 16–18 October. Featuring an intensive all-steam timetable, this flagship event combines beloved home fleet engines with four outstanding guest locomotives.
What to expect at the ELR Autumn Steam Gala
Guest locomotives
Leading the visitor line-up is Urie S15 No. 30506, making its first ELR appearance since 1993. Joining from the Severn Valley Railway is GWR Pannier Tank No. 7714, alongside SECR O1 No. 65 from the Bluebell Railway, travelling further north than ever before. Hudswell Clarke 1208 ‘Illingworth’ completes the guest roster (operating Friday and Sunday).
These stars will run alongside ELR favourites, including West Country 34092 ‘City of Wells’ and BR Standard 4MT 80097.
ELR steam experiences
Beyond standard services, the weekend offers several exclusive experiences:
- Dining Trains: Relish a Chippy Tea aboard the ‘Irwell Valley Fryer’ on Friday 16 October, or enjoy an elegant Cream Tea inside the 1906 L&YR Observation Saloon on Saturday and Sunday. Both require advance booking by 14 October.
- VIP Access: Experience the action directly from the cab with limited Footplate Rides, or ride the veranda on return Brake Van journeys between Bury and Ramsbottom.
- Special Events: Early birds can catch Friday morning photo run-pasts at Burrs Country Park featuring a 1960s freight setup, while Saturday evening offers an atmospheric Night Goods Train service along the entire line.
Gala Rover tickets and special event packages are on sale now. Local resident permit holders and railway society members can claim discounts on the day with a valid pass. Don’t miss this premier, unique autumn celebration of British steam heritage!
📍All experiences begin at Bury Bolton Street Station, 1 Bolton St, Bury BL9 0EY.
