Beloved Rail Attraction Makes a Comeback in UK City After Year-long Hiatus

THIS one is for the tram fans – a huge vintage rail attraction is set to return to Manchester in a matter of months.

The Heaton Park Tramway is undergoing a £400k upgrade so it can return to the tracks in time for 2026.

The Heaton Park Tramway will be up and running for summer 2026Credit: Heaton Park Tramway The vintage tram is set to run through Heaton Park in summer after a year-long closureCredit: Alamy

The popular tramway began operating through Heaton Park in 1903, but has been out of action for over a year due to electrical damage.

The electrics need an overhaul to bring them up to current safety standards.

Now, City Council has set aside £481,000 for its restoration.

The local Council said the upgrade should see the trams continue to run safely “for many years to come”.

The heritage line stretches for just over half a mile across Heaton Park – the .

Trams travelled between Middleton Road Depot and the Lakeside area within the park.

Previously, there were five trams in operation including a double decker Manchester 172 and a bright green Brush car that was built in Loughborough.

All were run by volunteers at Manchester Museum Society (MTMS) who worked with the council to maintain and run them since 1979.

Its reopening will coincide with the 125th anniversary of Manchester’s first electric tramway.

Return tickets for the Heaton Park Tramway were £2 for adults and £1 for children.

Previously, the tramway even offered enthusiasts the chance to drive one through the park.

A full five hours of multiple trips along the full length of the line cost £150pp.

Heaton Park Tramway even offers the chance for enthusiasts to drive their own tramsCredit: Heaton Park Tramway

Taster sessions which lasted for 30 minutes were priced at £25pp.

It hasn’t been confirmed whether these will be brought back when the tramway reopens.

It was a popular attraction for many years with lots of visitors calling it a “hidden gem” and said it’s “well worth a visit”.

Another rode on the trams for “several hours” and said it’s a “must-visit for anyone with an interest in trams”.

For more, here’s a unique .

And this .

Heaton Park Tramway will be up and running for summer 2026Credit: Heaton Park Tramway