The Rocket: All Aboard programme is pleased to announce the launch of its first-phase website, creating new opportunities to explore the stories, people and places connected to the Rainhill Trails and the historic Liverpool and Manchester Railway.

Created through a collaborative effort, the site brings together research led by Dr Sebastian Dembski and Dr Mark Smith, with support from Ian Wray at the University of Liverpool (February 2025). The asset list featured on the site is a key outcome of this research project.

The work has also been supported by the Rocket: All Aboard Executive Steering Group and the Liverpool and Manchester Railway Trust, alongside valuable contributions from the Built Heritage Strand Group. Timeline research was carried out by historian Dr Erin Beeston, with additional input from Manchester Histories.

The website was designed and developed by Manchester Histories on behalf of Rocket: All Aboard in collaboration with Imagine, OH Digital and Instruct Design.

The project has been made possible through funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund, with thanks to National Lottery players.

This first phase marks an important step in sharing the heritage of the line, with further stories, research and features to be added as the programme develops.