West Lancashire Light Railway

Hesketh Bank, Lancashire

The West Lancashire Light Railway is a narrow (2ft) gauge passenger carrying railway located in the village of Hesketh Bank, midway between Preston and Southport. The line was built by enthusiasts in 1967 and serves as a working museum for a variety of historic locomotives. The railway celebrates its 50th year in 2017.

The Railway is now home to seven steam locomotives, four of which are in working order and a remarkable collection of petrol, diesel and battery powered locomotives. In addition to the normal opening times a number of special events are held during the summer, when additional locomotives and other attractions may be present. Steam hauled Santa Specials run on December weekends prior to Christmas!

Groups are welcome, but prior notice is appreciated, and birthday parties can also be accommodated.

Full day ‘Learn to Drive a Steam Loco’ days are available for 1 to 4 persons, as are Day and Night Time photography sessions. Contact the West Lancashire Light Railway for more details.

The Railway is a non profit venture supported by the West Lancs Light Railway Trust and run entirely by volunteers.

Getting there

The Railway is a comfortable distance by cycle from Southport, Ormskirk and Preston, and is a little over 2 miles from the Lancashire Cycle Route 92. From all of these places, especially Southport, the cycle ride can be made using lanes with low volumes of traffic.

There are bus stops near the Railway which are served by Stagecoach Route 2 between Southport and Preston. This generally runs hourly when the Railway is open.

SATNAV ref PR4 6SP. Free car parking is available on site.