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West Lancashire Light Railway: A Charming Heritage Steam Experience

Experience the charm of vintage steam trains and industrial heritage on a scenic woodland railway in Lancashire.

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The West Lancashire Light Railway is a volunteer-run narrow-gauge steam railway in Hesketh Bank, Preston. It offers scenic short steam train rides through woodland along the Douglas river, a collection of industrial steam and diesel locomotives, and a cozy riverside tearoom. Operating mainly on Sundays and Bank Holidays from Easter to early November, it provides a family-friendly, educational, and nostalgic glimpse into Britain's industrial railway heritage.

A brief summary to West Lancashire Light Railway

  • Station Rd, Preston, Hesketh Bank, PR4 6SP, GB
  • +441772815881
  • Visit website
  • Duration: 1 to 3 hours
  • Mid ranged
  • Environment icon Outdoor
  • Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
  • Monday 11:30 am-4:30 pm
  • Wednesday 12 pm-4 pm
  • Sunday 11:30 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

  • Plan your visit on Sundays or Bank Holidays from Easter to early November for regular train services and full access to facilities.
  • Purchase tickets at the station shop or online in advance for convenience and to secure special event rides.
  • Enjoy homemade cakes and cream teas at the riverside tearoom, a perfect spot to relax after your train rides.
  • Engage with volunteers to learn fascinating stories about the locomotives and railway history.
  • Check the railway’s special event schedule for unique experiences like Halloween and Santa Specials.
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Getting There

  • Bus

    Stagecoach Bus No.2 stops near the railway site every hour on Sundays and Bank Holidays. The nearest stop is at Booth's supermarket, about a 15-minute walk from the station. Tickets cost approximately £3–£5 depending on the route.

  • Car

    Driving to the railway offers free parking on-site. From Preston, the journey takes about 20–30 minutes via local roads. Note that parking can be limited on busy event days.

  • Walking

    For visitors staying in nearby Hesketh Bank village, the railway is accessible on foot via a flat, easy 20–30 minute walk along local roads and paths.

West Lancashire Light Railway location weather suitability

  • Weather icon Any Weather
  • Weather icon Mild Temperatures
  • Weather icon Rain / Wet Weather

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Discover more about West Lancashire Light Railway

A Living Heritage of Industrial Steam

The West Lancashire Light Railway is a unique narrow-gauge steam railway nestled in the village of Hesketh Bank near Preston. Established and maintained by dedicated volunteers, it preserves a rich collection of industrial steam, diesel, petrol, and battery locomotives rescued from defunct industrial sites. The railway runs a short but charming 400-meter track from Becconsall station through peaceful woodland alongside the Douglas river to Delph station. This living museum offers visitors an authentic experience of Britain’s industrial railway past, showcasing the craftsmanship and engineering of vintage locomotives.

Engaging Steam Train Rides and Locomotive Displays

Visitors can enjoy multiple rides on the coal-fired steam trains during operating hours, with tickets allowing unlimited travel on running days. The train journey, though brief, is scenic and immersive, winding through tranquil woodland and riverside views. At Becconsall station, the engine shed and sidings display a variety of locomotives, some visiting from other heritage railways, allowing close-up encounters with these mechanical marvels. The volunteer team enthusiastically shares knowledge about the engines, enhancing the educational and interactive nature of the visit.

Community Spirit and Volunteer Dedication

Operated entirely by volunteers, the railway thrives on community involvement and passion for railway preservation. Volunteers not only run the trains but also maintain the site, assist visitors, and staff the tearoom and shop. Their enthusiasm and expertise bring the railway to life, creating a welcoming atmosphere that appeals to families, railway enthusiasts, and casual visitors alike. Special event days often feature additional attractions such as fairs and the opportunity to drive diesel locomotives.

Facilities and Visitor Comfort

The railway features a cozy riverside tearoom adjacent to the station, serving homemade cakes, cream teas, and coffee, perfect for relaxing after a train ride. Outdoor seating is available to enjoy the peaceful surroundings. A small shop offers railway-themed gifts and books, enhancing the visitor experience. Parking is free, and the site is accessible by local bus services on Sundays and Bank Holidays. The railway operates mainly on Sundays and Bank Holidays from Easter to early November, with additional running days during school holidays and special seasonal events like Halloween and Christmas Santa Specials.

Tickets, Pricing, and Accessibility

Entry to the site is free, with train rides charged separately. Standard fares are affordable, with adult tickets around £4 and concessions for children and seniors. Family tickets and advance online purchases are available for convenience. The railway is suitable for families with children, offering a safe and engaging environment. While the train ride is short, the overall visit can comfortably fill a couple of hours, combining rides, exploration, and refreshments.

A Scenic and Educational Escape in Lancashire

The West Lancashire Light Railway provides a tranquil yet lively setting where visitors can immerse themselves in the sights, sounds, and stories of steam railways. Its woodland setting by the Douglas river adds scenic charm, making it a delightful destination for a day out. Whether you are drawn by nostalgia, engineering interest, or simply a relaxing family outing, this heritage railway offers a memorable experience steeped in local history and community spirit.

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