The East Lancashire Railway (ELR) has revealed its programme for the upcoming May half-term holiday.

25-27 May: Vintage weekend

As we reported earlier this month, the Railway will begin the half-term break with a 1940s weekend.

It promises an “immersive experience”, which features a musical lineup including vintage vocal harmony trio ‘Blue Bird Belles’, and vintage DJ ‘A Train Swing’.

An Avro Lancaster 1 bomber will fly over Rawtenstall on the Monday.

The event aims to capture the more positive elements of the 1940s, to create a hopeful and celebratory atmosphere.

Tickets are cheaper when bought in advance.

30 May: The Wizarding Adventure

The railway presents the Wizard Academy’s wondrous whistle-stop tour, featuring a round trip from Bury to Rawtenstall aboard a heritage train, which will last around ninety minutes.

Young visitors will play the role of aspiring witches and wizards, and while on board the train will have the chance to take part in activities including learning the basics of broomstick flying, brewing potions and communicating with a tawny owl, mastering the art of tattle!

The event musters under the Station clock on Platform 3 & 4 at Bury Bolton Street station.

Villain Academy

For the first time, the railway will host the Villain Academy.

Riding on a steam train from Bury to Rawtenstall and back, children of all ages will take part in an interactive experience with vile villains on a dastardly quest, including a host of colourful characters from their favourite stories.

The two-hour villain experience includes themed activities and photo opportunities, and visitors can finish their day with a visit to Bury Transport Museum, which is just across the road from Bury Bolton Street station.

31 May, 1, 2 June: Dining Experiences

ELR has been running Red Rose Diner services for several years, and will run a half-term service on 31 May.

Upon boarding, visitors will be served a welcome drink, followed by a four-course, silver-served meal, and then by coffee and after-dinner chocolates.

Guests will have their own personal waiter/waitress, and relax knowing that their experience will be meticulously catered to the highest standards.

The ELR is also offering an onboard afternoon tea on 1 June, including finger sandwiches, homemade scones and a selection of patisserie freshly prepared by local chefs.

Separately, ELR is hosting a Traditional Luncheon on the 31 May and a Lancastrian Lunch on 2 June.