The East Lancashire Railway has been gearing up for the festive season with their Santa’s Special sale.

The winter wonderland event will kickstart festivities at the Bury Bolton Street Station where passengers can meet the elves as well as the magical talking Christmas tree, Mrs Claus and the railways

Guests will then board one of the railway’s unique and popular heritage steam trains for an 80-minute round trip from Bury to Rawtenstall Station.

Mike Kelly, chairman of the East Lancashire Railway (ELR), said: “For over 30 years generations have been enjoying Christmas at ELR.

“Last year I met a family of four generations who have been coming every year since the first Santa Special was launched.

“This year our Santa Specials are bigger and better than ever before with lots of new festive characters to meet and an upgraded Winter Wonderland for an even more magical experience.”

Christmas characters including Santa will be handing out gifts while the brass band play traditional Christmas favourites with guests encouraged to sing along. 

Mike added: “Families can immerse themselves in the festive atmosphere with plenty of music, sweet treats for both adults and children and a gift from Santa for the children.

“Guests also have increased time with Santa to have a chat and snap a memorable selfie. 

“A trip to the railway's Christmas celebrations has become a seasonal delight for many families and we’re thrilled that the improved experience will continue to bring the magic of Christmas to life with even more to see and do.” 

Mike also added that grown-ups can look forward to a mince pie and a festive tipple or soft drink.

Tickets are available to book here with prices starting from £23 for adults.

Families can also start their journey at Heywood Station where they can park for free and take the Santa Diesel Train Shuttle to Bury Bolton Street Station for the starting point of the steam-hauled Santa Specials.

Shuttle tickets are priced at £1.50 for children and £2.50 for adults. 

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