How to Find SMEC Ghost Train 2025: Your Guide to Our Spine-Tingling Halloween Railway Adventure Near Preston
Looking for the best Halloween events near Preston for your family this October? You've found it! This page is your comprehensive guide to easily reaching SMEC Ghost Train 2025, the North West's premier immersive Halloween railway experience. We're excited to help you plan your journey from Preston to our enchanting event at Southport Model Engineering Club.
Event Hours
Friday 30th – Saturday 31st October 2026
3:30pm - 8:30pm each night
Arrive 15 minutes before your booked time slot
Ready to visit from Preston? Ghost Train Experience Pre-Booking is Advised!
Book TicketsDriving from Preston
Estimated Drive Times
Route Overview
Preston to Southport is a quick and easy journey via the A59, making it one of the closest major towns to the Ghost Train experience.
Detailed Directions
1. From Preston city centre, head west on A59 (Blackpool Road)2. Continue on A59 for approximately 18 miles3. Follow signs for Southport town centre4. A59 becomes Preston New Road as you enter Southport5. Continue straight through to Lord Street6. Free parking available on Rotten Row or surrounding area near Victoria ParkEstimated journey time: 30 minutes (straightforward route)
Parking Information
Plentiful free parking around Victoria Park on residential streets. Lord Street car parks offer convenient alternatives. Being one of the closest towns, Preston visitors have the advantage of easier parking availability.
When You Arrive
- ✓Free parking available on Rotten Row or surrounding area near Victoria Park
- ✓Find us at the top of Rotten Row (Weld Road end)
- ✓Look for stewards in high-visibility orange jackets with SMEC name badges
- ✓Arrive 15 minutes before your booked time slot
- ✓Buy a ticket and choose a time slot (if you haven't already booked) - Buy Tickets Here
- ✓Check in and scan your ticket at the queue entrance at your allotted time
By Train from Preston
Direct trains run from Preston to Southport with no changes required.Journey Details:• Frequency: Regular services throughout the day• Journey time: Approximately 35 minutes direct• Service operated by Northern Railway• From Southport station, 15-minute walk to Victoria Park• Follow Lord Street from the station to Park CrescentCheck Trainline for times and advance purchase discounts.
Opens Trainline journey planner with your route pre-filled
View station facilities, accessibility info, and local connections
Alternative station - just 5 minutes walk from event
Local Landmarks
- •Route passes through charming Lancashire countryside
- •Near to Martin Mere Wetland Centre (slight detour)
- •Southport Floral Hall and Theatre visible near the park
- •Victorian seaside gardens and promenades throughout Southport
Local Tips for Preston Visitors
- ✓Being the closest major town, Preston visitors can easily make multiple visits throughout the season
- ✓The A59 is a well-maintained main road with good signage
- ✓Direct train service makes public transport an excellent option - avoid parking hassles completely
- ✓Consider an early evening visit and enjoy Southport's restaurants afterward
- ✓Great option for a spontaneous night out - only 30 minutes away!
Plan your journey from Preston and book now!
Book TicketsOur Address
Southport Model Engineering Club
Rotten Row (next to Victoria Park)
Southport
Merseyside
PR8 2DA
Regular Train Rides
Every Sunday, 11am - 4pm
(Weather permitting)
Please check our socials for latest information before visiting for train rides
Helpful Links & Navigation
Traveling from Nearby Cities?
Also coming from these nearby locations? View their specific directions
Ready to Experience the Ghost Train?
Book your tickets now to secure your place on this spine-tingling journey from Preston