Volunteers at the West Lancashire Light Railway, in the village of Hesketh Bank, near Preston, are currently busy preparing for the start of the heritage railway’s 2023 season, which begins on Sunday 2 April.

With winter maintenance and engine preparation almost complete, attention has now moved on to getting the railway ready to receive 2023’s visitors.

West Lancashire Light Railway expects another busy year with steam trains operating every Sunday and Bank Holiday until the first week in November.

Each month will see the Railway host one of its popular special events for families and individuals to enjoy, starting with an Easter Egg Hunt on Sunday 9 April.

2023 will see the 120th anniversary of our steam locomotive Irish Mail, a quarry Hunslet built for the Welsh slate industry in 1903.

Also expected to return to service in 2023 is Sybil, a 1906 Bagnall steam locomotive that worked in the same Quarry as Irish Mail. Sybil has been extensively restored by the volunteers at Hesketh Bank, including constructing a new boiler.

Montalban, our German steam locomotive from Spain, restored in 2022, will also be in service during 2023. All our heritage steam locomotives are over 100 years old.

Being a voluntary organisation, the Trust recognises the current economic conditions and has held its fares at 2019 prices, ensuring that it remains a great-value family fun day out. Tickets are valid for travel all day.

The tearoom will once again be open, allowing visitors to watch the engines while having a cup of tea or coffee, and cake. For the children, there are plenty of Brio train sets to play with while watching the bigger trains operate.

Tickets can be purchased on the day, or discounted tickets are available online here.

The railway also provides a wonderful place to volunteer, for anyone from the age of 16 to 99. There will be roles for everyone including train crewing, workshop, general duties, shop, catering, and administration. Come down for a chat and see what you can do.