You can ride a wizard-themed steam train through Greater Manchester
Kori Hirst and Summer Patten both aged nine during a Wizarding day at The East Lancs Railway, Bury
The much-loved East Lancashire Railway (ELR) is reopening for 2022 next month, and there’s something for everyone in the calendar packed full of events.
Families looking for something exciting to keep the children entertained at during the Half Term can now book on one of the heritage railway’s children’s adventure days – including pirate, dinosaur-themed days – while love birds can enjoy a Valentine’s dinner aboard one of the iconic Pullman-style carriages.
But one of the standout experiences on the 2022 events lineup has to be the chance to go on a ‘wizarding adventure’ and ride wizard-themed train through Greater Manchester.
Aspiring witches and wizards can gather at the ELR for a day of sharing spells and magic-themed fun.
This interactive adventure will see visitors, both young and old, enjoy a range of performances from colourful characters and magical creatures – provided by performance company Funcast – all before boarding the ‘Wizard Express’ for a two-hour round trip journey through the Irwell Valley of wonders.
To help work on their magic, visitors will also receive some books to teach them the skills needed to defeat the evil wand-bearers.
During the return trip from Bury to Rawtenstall hauled by a genuine steam – and spell – powered train, there’ll be so many wizard-themed activities to get stuck into, as well as plenty of photo opportunities along the way.
Food and drink will be available to tuck into from the café on Platform 3/4 at Bury Bolton Street Station, and from the Rawtenstall Buffet too.
Read more: East Lancashire Railway forced to spend thousands clearing fly-tipped rubbish ready for reopening
The Wizarding Adventure for February Half Term will take place on Wednesday 16 February, and then the magical event returns for a selection of dates later on in the year – 6 April, 13 April, and 1 June 2022, with tickets priced at £13 for children, and £18 for adults.
You can grab tickets here.
Featured Image – East Lancashire Railway (ELR)