With the summer holidays just around the corner, the East Lancashire Railway (ELR) is once again back to entertain families during the break. The railway has an assortment of family-friendly events planned for the summer holidays, one of those being the return of the beloved Day Out With Thomas—a full-day experience centred around everyone’s favourite, Thomas the Tank Engine.
Thomas the Tank Engine at the East Lancashire Railway (ELR): what to expect
The adventure begins at Bury Bolton Street Station. It is recommended to arrive up to 45 minutes before your ticketed departure time to soak up the atmosphere.
Visitors will meet Sir Topham Hatt at the Station, say hello to Thomas on the platform and snap a pic before climbing aboard a carriage. A Thomas the Tank Engine replica will pull the train through the amazing countryside on a fun-filled journey to Ramsbottom. Then, a classic diesel engine will lead the journey back to Bury, where the fun continues at the Bury Transport Museum.
Plenty of fun and entertainment with ELR
Visitors can step off the tracks and into a world of excitement as your ticket not only offers a ride on board Thomas the Tank Engine, but also unlocks a jam-packed lineup of themed activities with the ELR that are perfect for little engineers:
- Live Entertainment: Catch interactive, high-energy performances from Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty and Dusty.
- Playtime & Games: Seek out your favourite characters in the Thomas & Friends hunt, enjoy classic garden games, and spin around on four toddler-friendly funfair rides.
- Crafts Corner: Let creativity shine in hands-on workshops where kids can build their very own musical instruments.
- Special Extras: Every child scores exclusive Thomas & Friends giveaways, plus there’s face painting available for little ones aged 2 and up.
Added Value: The fun goes even further! Your event ticket also doubles as a day pass for unlimited travel on all regular ELR service trains, alongside complimentary entry to the Bury Transport Museum.
Here’s when Thomas the Tank Engine will visit the ELR and how to book
Thomas the Tank Engine will be visiting the ELR for two more weekends during 2026:
- July: 18th – 19th
- October: 3rd – 4th
Tickets for children aged two to 17 years old start from £15.95 and adult tickets start from £26.40. Family tickets start from £49.68 (one adult and two children).
If you are accompanying a visitor as a carer, you are entitled to one free Carer Ticket. These need to be booked by calling the booking office on 0333 320 2830 and proof of status as a carer will need to be provided on arrival at the railway.
Tickets are available now here and are expected to sell out quickly.
