A host of new exhibits helped The Bury Transport Museum at East Lancashire Railway smash its visitor record in 2023.
Train enthusiasts from all over the country flocked to see the iconic 2500 Tilbury Tank and Hudswell Clarke locomotive Vesta fresh from the former Penrhyn Castle collection on display for the first time.
These star attractions saw the museum welcome 13% more visitors than the previous year, with almost 12,000 people passing through the doors.
Those who have booked on to the Legends of Steam event on March 15-17 will not only ride behind three iconic express locos, but the ticket includes full access to the Transport Museum to view the new static exhibits.
Keith Whitmore, East Lancashire Railway director and museum chairman, said: “In the last year museums up and down the country have faced a downturn in visiting numbers.
“We’re proud that our numbers have increased by 13 per cent despite this, and it’s down to the tireless efforts of the ELR team, and the great additions to our museum that we’ve acquired this year.
“We’re looking forward to another great year for the museum, as our collection continues to grow and appeal to train enthusiasts and families alike.”
