The Train to Aysgarth

Talking about the train to Aysgarth in Wensleydale in the Yorkshire Dales as in a previous blog. It would seem that the line to Aysgarth and beyond going west was closed to all passengers in April 1954 by the British Transport Commission although goods trains continued to use the line from Redmire, passing through Aysgarth, to Hawes until 1964.

Aysgarth Station was originally part of the North Eastern Railway’s Hawes Branch, and opened in 1878 but now sadly the line from Redmire is no longer with the rails having been removed and yet some parts are still enjoyed by walkers using the line as a pathway on their walks but it can be rather spasmodic with lots of detours off the line. Seems such a shame that the line is no longer used for what it was intended all those years ago but that’s the way of a lot of tracks. The Wensleydale Railway took over responsibility for the station after it closed, but was unable to reopen it. The buildings were temporarily used as a holiday let, but the tracks were not re-laid. In 2019, a railway enthusiast received approval for a private steam project at the station. The project aims to restore the station to its original Victorian condition, and to reinstate the tracks so that locomotives and rolling stock can be stored on them.

A friend told me she and her brothers and sisters used to go to Leyburn on the train to see the dentist, I wonder how many others would have done that too, if not to the dentist but just to go shopping etc.

Perhaps there is hope for the future, a case of wait and see. In the meantime come and wander on the stretches available to walk on but also to enjoy travelling on the line still in use from Leeming Bar to Leyburn, a wonderful scenic journey. Don’t forget THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride with spaces available from 16 November and throughout December. Get your pyjamas and dressing gowns on and your Polar Express tickets in hand and get ready to take part in the train ride of your life! A fully immersive theatrical experience lies in wait for you beyond the station of Leeming Bar at Wensleydale Railway – if you just believe. 

Stay in one of our beautiful Country Hideaways holiday cottages and experience the dales and take a ride on the very scenic route provided by the Wensleydale Railway. Call me, Nadine, or my daughter Joanne, on 01969 663559 to book over the telephone and for friendly help and advice or, of course, do book online if you prefer.

Hear from you really soon!