Thursday 19 and Saturday 21 February 2026
This February Half Term, rail journeys across Halton offer something unexpected, as Beyond the Tracks Music Trains bring live music directly onto scheduled train services.
On Thursday 19 February and Saturday 21 February 2026, local musicians perform on board trains calling at Widnes and Hough Green. Services then continue through to Liverpool Lime Street. As a result, passengers can enjoy live music as part of their everyday journey. All you need is a regular rail ticket, as the music is completely free to enjoy.
With support from North Cheshire Community Rail Partnership, the Music Trains celebrate local creativity and promote sustainable travel. The event is delivered in partnership with Northern, In Widnes, the Liverpool City Region Combined Authority, Metro Mayor, Halton Borough Council and Cultivate Halton, highlighting the strong connection between railways, culture and community life.
What Are the Beyond the Tracks Music Trains?
Beyond the Tracks is a cultural project that explores Halton’s rich musical heritage, originally through a walking trail between Widnes and Runcorn. However, during February Half Term, the idea takes on a new and more accessible form.
Instead of walking the route, the music travels with you.
Live artists perform on board the train, which turns everyday rail journeys into shared cultural experiences. As a result, passengers can engage with local music while travelling as normal, without needing to plan ahead.
Live Music on Board the Trains
Thursday 19 February 2026
Pete Bentham and the Dinner Ladies
The Liverpool-based band bring their acoustic show to the Music Trains on Thursday and are known for their DIY ethos, socially conscious lyrics and strong links to local communities.
During their acoustic performances, they offer a stripped-back sound while still retaining their trademark energy and character. With personal connections to Widnes and a long history of performing across the UK and Europe, they are a fitting addition to this unique rail event.
Saturday 21 February 2026
The Dock Road Trio
On Saturday, The Dock Road Trio take to the Music Trains, continuing the celebration of Halton’s growing local music scene.
Their set spans everything from 1950s swing to contemporary pop, with plenty of well-known favourites along the way.
Train Times and Routes
Live music runs on the following services on both dates, with trains operating in both directions.
From Widnes Station
- 10:53
- 14:53
From Liverpool Lime Street Station
- 11:56
- 15:56
During the journey, services call at Widnes, Hough Green, Halewood, Hunts Cross, Liverpool South Parkway, West Allerton, Mossley Hill and Liverpool Lime Street. Therefore, passengers can enjoy live performances whether travelling towards Liverpool or returning through Halton.
Ticket Information
Price
Standard rail fare applies. Live music is free!
Passengers should travel with a valid rail ticket. You can purchase tickets in advance via Northern at www.northernrailway.co.uk/tickets, or follow usual rail ticketing arrangements.
Part of Culture 26: Made in Halton
Beyond the Tracks Music Trains form part of Culture 26: Made in Halton, a year-long celebration of the borough’s creativity, heritage and innovation.
Through events like this, Culture 26 shows how culture grows through people, places and shared experiences. In turn, bringing live music onto trains highlights how railways connect communities while supporting local talent.
Supporting Community Rail Across Halton
As a sponsor, North Cheshire Community Rail Partnership supports events that strengthen the role of rail in everyday life. Music Trains show how stations and services can become welcoming spaces that reflect local identity.
At the same time, the event encourages sustainable travel, supports community participation and creates positive rail experiences across Halton and beyond.
Share Your Beyond the Tracks Journey
Beyond the Tracks Music Trains offer a February Half Term rail journey with a difference, combining live music, local stories and everyday travel across Halton. Whether you are travelling for the performances, exploring local culture, or simply heading out for the day, the experience remains relaxed, welcoming and easy to enjoy.
Passengers are encouraged to share their journey on social media using #BeyondTheTracks and #Culture26. n addition, you can explore the wider Beyond the Tracks walking trail and discover more about Halton’s musical heritage at VisitHalton.co.uk.
Step on board this February Half Term and enjoy live music, local creativity and a rail journey that truly goes beyond the tracks.
