GWR 4270 has been operating on trains at the East Lancashire Railway for the past few months on its visit from the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway.
Whilst we haven't been able to see this wonderful locomotive, Andrew Ditton recently stayed at Burrs Country Park Caravan and Motorhome Club site and took a trip behind the tank engine.
Burrs Country Park Caravan and Motorhome Club Site has 103 pitches available for caravans and motorhomes, and it also has its very own station for the East Lancashire Railway, allowing you to leave the car or motorhome on site whilst you explore the Irwell Valley and Bury.
Starting off from the halt, Andrew Ditton made his way by steam train to Bury Bolton Street and Heywood, before heading for lunch in Ramsbottom, which he arrived in style on board a heritage diesel multiple unit.
Back at Ramsbottom station after lunch, 4270 was Andrew's stead once again, passing through Irwell Vale on his way to Rawtenstall. Heading back to Burrs Country Park on his return journey.
Burrs Country Park makes an ideal spot to park your home from home and explore Manchester, Bury and the Pennines. Pitches start from just £10.75 a night, more information can be found by clicking here.
The East Lancashire Railway runs for 12.5 miles from Heywood to Rawtenstall via Bury Bolton Street, Burrs Country Park, Summerseat, Ramsbottom and Irwell Vale. A variety of tickets are available, more information can be found here, but it makes for a superb family day out, especially with a lot of trains running, allowing you to explore the area.
A brief history of 4270
No. 4270 was built in 1919. The locomotive spent most of its working life based near Cardiff. Excellent traction was had by these locomotives thanks to their 8 driving wheels and two leading wheels. They never saw passenger service due to their small water capacity.
4270 was withdrawn in 1962 and moved to Barry Scrapyard, where she stayed until 1985. It wasn't until 2014 when the locomotive returned to steam after a 4-year overhaul. She can now be found in passenger service at the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway.
A massive thanks to Andrew Ditton for allowing us to share his video on our website. Please do use the below links to follow him on his travels around the UK and beyond! We really enjoy his content 🙂
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