The impending visit of world-famous chocolatier Billy Bonka was the main topic of conversation amongst chocaholics in the lead up to the Ramsbottom Chocolate Festival celebrations. But their revels melted away when Bonka was murdered in the darkness of Brookbottom Tunnel on his way to the festival. Be a smartie and solve the clues to put the murderer behind bars (and not chocolate ones) and you could win a prize!
East Lancashire Railway
"MURDER ON THE CHOCOLATE EXPRESS"** IMPORTANT ** This Trail has been designed to be completed by travelling along the East Lancashire Railway by train, for which separate charges apply. See the
East Lancashire Railway site for details of charges, operating times and timetables. Whilst it could be completed by car, the Trail contains clues within Bury station building which is closed outside of railway operating times.
On this Trail you must find the answers to clues spread along the route of the East Lancashire Railway which will help you to solve the murder of the world-famous chocolatier Billy Bonka, the “Murder on the Chocolate Express”. You may win a cash prize if you submit the correct answer to the puzzle!
This Trail follows the route of the East Lancashire Railway, starting at Bury Bolton Street station and exploring the quaint riverside village of Irwell Vale and the busy market town of Ramsbottom from the stations along the line.
The final part of the Trail is centred on Ramsbottom, an unspoiled Victorian market town which has established itself as the number one chocolate destination with its award winning chocolatiers, restaurants and cafes which offer mouth watering delicacies of all things chocolate. The town hosts an annual Chocolate Festival and has a permanent Chocolate Trail.
The Trail entails alighting at Irwell Vale and Ramsbottom stations where there are clues that can be found on foot with a total walking distance of around 1.25 miles. Instructions are included within the Trail regarding in which direction to catch the train from each station and when to get off. A return ticket is required between Bury and Irwell Vale stations. Charges apply.
The railway operates every weekend throughout the year and mid-week services operate during School Easter Holidays and from May to mid September. There are different timetables at different times of the year. See the East Lancashire Railway website for more information on prices and timetables.
The Trail is suitable for pushchairs but not for wheelchairs.
