The Railway Age Begins: An Anniversary Tour
On 15 September 1830, the world’s first fully operational, steam-powered passenger railway opened between Liverpool and Manchester, marking the start of a transport revolution. This walking tour explores its legacy, from surviving railway buildings to the dramatic social changes that followed.
The Liverpool and Manchester Railway proved rail travel was here to stay—profitable from the start and making journeys more accessible, though it also deepened class divides. Beginning at the original Manchester station, now part of the Science and Industry Museum, the tour takes you through the city’s railway heritage, with stories of pioneers like George Bradshaw, whose Bradshaw’s Railway Companion transformed travel in the 19th century.
For a preview of the history, you might even catch Great British Railway Journeys, the BBC series inspired by Bradshaw’s work.
Highlights
- Learn about first fully operational, steam-powered passenger railway in the world
- Explore the societal and economic changes that it brought
- Visit the Museum of Science and Industry, where the oldest railway station in the world survives
- Take a closer look at more buildings that that remain of that period
- Hear stories about key figures like Manchester’s George Bradshaw, who created the famous Bradshaw’s Railway Companion in 1839
What's included
- Walking tour led by a knowledgeable and experienced tour guide
- Food and drink
- Transportation to and from the walking tour
- Umbrellas
Cancellation policy
You may cancel or modify your booking up to 24 hours before the event start time for a full refund.
