The Heritage Hub

The Heritage Hub is an ever evolving, feature of the The Station - Irlam, designed to bring to life the rich fabrics and remnants of the past in a captivating and comforting setting.

Enjoy a leisurely stroll around the building (meetings permitting) and grounds and take in the fabulous celebration of the area’s industrial heritage, which is showcased in the collection of photographs, artistic interpretations and artefacts on display.

TRAINS OF THOUGHT THAT BRING HERITAGE TO LIFE

Over the years, Irlam and its railways have been on a journey of their own, which began with the introduction of the world’s first intercity line; the Manchester to Liverpool Railway. Although just over a mile outside of Irlam, it would become the foundation of the future of transport and industry for the area.

From its initial construction in 1873, until its closure in the 1980’s, Irlam Station was a bustling hub that played an intrinsic role in connecting Irlam to the rest of the world and putting the area firmly on the map.

After sitting derelict for almost a century, the Station House was impressively restored by local charity Hamilton Davies Trust. The exterior looks much as it did when it was first built with original slates adorning the roof, vivid brickwork and gleaming paintwork a nod to the the iconic colour-scheme of the London, Midland and Scottish Railways (LMS).

Reminisce about the golden days of railways by taking in the impressive collection of memorabilia displayed around the site. From the Porters trolley, left luggage and gradient track sign, to the 1930’s railway holiday posters and array of signals.

Even more notably, why not visit the magnificent signal box in the car park, take a look at a full size Peckett Loco at the heritage railway display or appreciate the drinking fountain, a replica of the original design from 1872, featuring the Irlam Coat of Arms.

Whether you’re an avid railway enthusiast, your family roots began or remain in the area or you are someone looking to learn something new, there is so much to see.

Our newest addition to the Station Irlam is our new Signal Box and you can take a virtual tour here to learn all about it.

Signal Box Tour

REFLECTIONS OF OUR INDUSTRIAL PAST

In 1894 the introduction of the Manchester Ship Canal, in addition to the railways proved the catalyst for the rapid expansion of industry in Irlam and Cadishead, with large factories and chimneys dominating the landscape.

Irlam became an industrial hub with many major factories making it their new home, the Corporate Wholesale Society (CWS) Soap Works was the first to drop its anchor on the banks of the Manchester Ship Canal, with its own wharf but was quickly followed by two other major players; Partington Steel and Iron Company and the CWS Margarine works, all of which had internal railways and linked to the mainline.

These major industries are brought to life through the photographs and heritage boards, as well as the replica large wagons and steel artworks in Station Art Park. That’s not forgetting our boothed seating area modelled on the Soap Work Special carriage.

Steam Engine 3

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A TRIP DOWN MEMORY LANE

Heritage is a central theme at Irlam Station, with the railways, waterways, industry and social culture are all fondly celebrated throughout.

Take a look at the Celebrity Express – Irlam artwork, which illustrates some of the colourful characters who have come from Irlam and Cadishead or influenced how the area has been shaped over the past four centuries.

See our wonderful Man on the Bench sculpture, providing an example of the many Steelworkers who would pass through the station in their hundreds many years ago.

Heritage boards take you on a trip down memory lane and other features such as the clock, phone box and many other great surprises each have their own story to tell, and we’re adding new things all the time.

For a fun overview of some of the items featured at The Station – Irlam, download a copy of our souvenir newspaper The Irlam Chronicle.

Scan or click the QR code to join our Birthday Club!

For Inspirations, Special Offers and Much More

Irlam Station, Station Road,
Irlam M44 5ZR, Uk
0161 222 1923
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