Heritage railways are a weird and wonderful part of our British culture, and with East Lancashire Railway (ELR) so close to us in Manchester, there are plenty of seasonal events we love to get involved with. Now, ELR invites locals and tourists alike to a brand new event, aptly named Vintage Vibes, bringing some colour to Bury Bolton Street station this May bank holiday weekend.
On Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th May 2025, unite with like-minded music lovers and celebrate the iconic and timeless tunes of yesteryear – the music that shaped countless generations and influenced everything we know today. From the frenetic energy of Northern Soul to the vibrant energy of 1970s pop, Vintage Vibes will be the largest live music event the ELR has ever held.
Vintage Vibes will be taking over not only Bury Bolton Street Station and The Trackside Pub, but also the car park where you’ll find the main stage and headline acts. Other smaller stages and acts will also be dotted around the railway so there’s always something going on, and mini bars and stalls will be easily available to ensure that you can keep your groove on throughout the weekend.
As well as ELR’s own Trackside and Buffer Stops, they’ll be playing host to bars from local breweries Thornbridge and Youngs.
Performers making an appearance at the festival include: The Original Real Thing, Sixtiesmania, Soul DJ Ian Gibbons, Northern Soul Train and so many more to keep everyone entertained!
What’s more, ELR’s partners at So Retro are bringing a fantastic Vintage Fair, perfect if you’re looking to mark the occasion by picking up a vintage vinyl or express yourself with a classic band T-Shirt – it’s music, fashion, homeware and nostalgia, all in one spot. Plus, to mark this momentous occasion, legendary music producer, songwriter and passionate railway enthusiast Pete Waterman will be officially opening Vintage Vibes on Saturday 24 May.
ELR is even set to take the Vintage Vibes to the skies, as a Lancaster Bomber will be flying over on Saturday 24th May – the exact time and location are to be confirmed, but the Battle of Memorial Flight will be welcomed with open arms.
There will also be some goings-on at other ELR stations including Heywood, Ramsbottom and Rawtenstall, all of which you can explore here.
Tickets include unlimited train travel all day as well as access to all entertainment and the main stage – the perfect excuse to explore even more local ale! Find tickets here.
ELR Vintage Vibes will be taking place at approximately 12pm-11pm on Saturday 24th and Sunday 25th May.
📍 Bury Bolton Street Station, 1 Bolton St, Bury BL9 0EY.