Less than one year after the iconic Flying Scotsman flew through town, it was announced that 4079 ‘Pendennis Castle’ will be visiting the East Lancashire Railway this weekend, courtesy of Didcot Railway Centre, as part of her 100th anniversary celebrations. The historic steam locomotive was built in 1924 for the Great Western Railway and was well known for easily outperforming its rivals in speed and efficiency, as well as being chosen to represent the United Kingdom at the British Empire Exhibition in 1925.
Following retirement from mainline service, Pendennis Castle continued to represent us overseas, working on preservation lines in Australia until 1994 (alongside the Flying Scotsman no less). She came back home in 2000 and was returned to service in 2021.
This is a rare opportunity to ride behind this historic Great Western Locomotive over the testing gradients of the East Lancashire Railway (normal fares apply). The East Lancashire Railway is a true gem in the North West, keeping the history and heritage of our region alive, and with the Art Deco Pendennis Castle, or 4079, passing by, there’s a lot to get excited about this spring.
Visitors can take their visit of Pendennis Castle to the next level with a luxury dining experience, as a number of different dining trains will be available, hauled by this iconic locomotive.
Saturday 13 April will host the Red Rose Diner – Enjoy an atmospheric evening meal on board one of the opulently restored Pullman style carriages. This four course, silver served meal is a flagship experience and fully embodies everything that comes to mind when you hear the words “Dining Train”, so go on, get your glad rags on!
Indulge in a Murder Mystery on Saturday 20 April – Have you got the skills to solve the clues? Can you catch the dastardly evil doer before dessert? Get on board for a Murder at the Ritz, a glamorous 1920s caper with a side order of crime. Expect a sparkling welcome drink, a four-course meal, and an evening of interactive entertainment as you take a unique trip, not dissimilar to the Orient Express.
Experience the Premium Night aboard the Pendennis Castle on Saturday 27 April, representing the ultimate Dining Experience offered at the East Lancashire Railway, with live music, freshly prepared canapés, on board entertainment and more.
All experiences last just under three hours, with the Pendennis Castle coursing along the East Lancashire Railway through the historic Irwell Valley – beginning and ending at Bury Bolton Street station.
To book all these experiences on board the Pendennis Castle, head to the East Lancashire Railway website here.