Race the Train - Bury to Rawtenstall

JUN
20
2027
Family-run point to point trail race of about 11 miles from Bury to Rawtenstall beside the East Lancashire Railway and River Irwell, with supporters able to ride the train.
Sun 20 Jun 2027
11 miles

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Race the Train - Bury to Rawtenstall

Race the Train is a family-run trail event that starts at East Lancashire Railway Bolton St in Bury and finishes in Rawtenstall. Runners begin to the sound of a steam train whistle and follow trails beside the East Lancashire Railway and the River Irwell on a point to point course of approximately 11 miles.

The event stages the running alongside a heritage train that travels ahead, pauses to change tracks, then continues north, and weather permitting the train may be a steam service or an alternative diesel. Supporters can buy concessionary train tickets, sold separately from race entry, to ride the train and cheer along the route.

There are water stations on the course and marshals positioned to assist runners. The event uses a cut off time of 2 hours 40 minutes. Every finisher receives a custom-designed medal and a T-shirt. Prizes are awarded to the first three male and female finishers, first in each veteran category, and first male and female teams.

Registration typically opens on the morning of the race at Platform 3 and the event has limited entries; it has sold out in previous years. The event is organised by Trail Blazing Events and is presented as a community-focused, family-run race. Visit the organization's website for the most recent information.

11 mi
Race the Train - Bury to Rawtenstall

Events nearby

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A 13 km social trail run in Glossop for women and NB participants, with two pace groups, hilly terrain, dogs welcome, and donation tickets supporting a Community Fund.
A 10 km Category BS fell race on 7 November 2026 with about 350 m ascent, run on a fast muddy course featuring a steep descent off Stoodley Pike.
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