With a fabulous day out on the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway.
Nestled in the picturesque hills of Yorkshire, Keighley and Worth Valley Heritage Railway is a must-visit for any train enthusiast or history buff. This 5 mile long historic railway line, which first opened in 1867, takes visitors on a journey through the stunning countryside of West Yorkshire, passing through charming towns and villages along the way.
The railway is a living testament to the golden age of steam, with beautifully restored steam engines and carriages that transport visitors back in time to a bygone era. The railway also plays an important role in preserving the region’s industrial heritage, with many of the stations and buildings along the line dating back to the Victorian era.
The journey begins at Keighley station, a bustling hub of activity with a range of shops and cafes to explore. From here, visitors can board the train and settle into one of the plush, comfortable seats, ready for a journey back in time.
The first stop on the line is Ingrow, home to The Vintage Carriages Trust (VCT) Carriageworks museum and The Engine Shed – The Bahamas Locomotive Society’s Museum and Engineering Centre both of which give a fascinating glimpse into the history of the railways.
As the train chugs out of Ingrow, the stunning scenery of the Worth Valley comes into view with its verdant countryside and sheep grazing in the fields. The next stop is a request stop at Britain’s smallest station, Damems, that once served the adjacent cotton mill and allowed local farmers access to the national rail network.
Shortly after leaving Damems we reach the charming village of Oakworth, with its pretty stone cottages. The station at Oakworth is a true gem, with its original Victorian features lovingly restored to their former glory and featured in the 1970 film The Railway Children. Oakworth station will return to the screen soon as 42 years after the release of the original film ‘The Railway Children Return’ has recently been filmed on the line and will be released to cinema audiences soon.
As the train continues along the line, visitors are treated to more stunning views of the Yorkshire countryside. The next stop is Haworth, famous as the home of the Bronte sisters. The station at Haworth is another delight, with its traditional tea room and gift shop. Visitors can explore the village’s cobbled streets and visit the Bronte Parsonage Museum, which houses a fascinating collection of artifacts and exhibits about the life and work of the famous literary family.
After leaving Haworth, the train continues on its journey through the stunning countryside brfiore reaching the final stop on the line at the village of Oxenhope. The station at Oxenhope is another highlight of the line, with its beautiful Victorian architecture and charming station buffet.
For those who want to experience the railway in style, there are a range of special events and experiences on offer throughout the year. From murder mystery evenings to steam galas, there’s always something exciting happening on the line.
Overall, a visit to Keighley and Worth Valley Heritage Railway is a truly unforgettable experience. The stunning scenery, historic stations and beautifully restored steam engines all combine to create a journey back in time that visitors will never forget. Whether you’re a train enthusiast, a history buff or simply looking for a unique day out in the Yorkshire countryside, this wonderful railway line is the perfect destination.
