A solo adventure undertaken on Christmas eve, aiming for no security to be onsite, as this is, believe it or not, a fully active site which still deals in train repairs and work. Although the main attraction 'The Shed' has been pretty much left to rot from what I can tell. Quiet difficult to gain access too. And some drone work to confirm no onsite security. I aim to provide only images of the best quality.
Please enjoy the images I captured on my adventure.
The Weardale Railway, situated in County Durham, England, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Originally constructed as an offshoot of the Stockton & Darlington Railway in 1847, the line was primarily developed to transport materials to the ironworks of Teesside. By 1895, it had been extended along the dale to Wearhead, covering a distance of 25 miles.
A significant feature along this line is the Wolsingham Station, which opened in 1847. The station building, now a private residence, is notable for its steeply pitched roofs made of stone slabs. Adjacent to the station is a large stone structure commonly referred to as the 'gunbarrel shed.' This building, now listed, was historically used for manufacturing large gun barrels and is currently utilized as a storage depot for railway projects.
In 1964, the Eastgate cement works were established, bringing renewed activity to the line. The cement was transported primarily by rail to various destinations, including Teesside, Tyneside, and Scotland. This operation continued until 1993, after which the line faced the threat of closure. However, the formation of the Weardale Railway Preservation Society in 1993 played a pivotal role in preventing the line's removal and promoting its future.
In 2004, Weardale Railways Limited purchased the line, and by July of that year, the section between Stanhope and Wolsingham was reopened for passenger services. Despite facing financial challenges and temporary suspensions, the railway has continued to operate, with services running between Stanhope and Bishop Auckland. The line is now recognized as one of the longest preserved standard gauge heritage railways in Great Britain.
The Wolsingham Train Depot, with its historical significance and continued use, remains an integral part of the Weardale Railway's operations, reflecting the enduring legacy of railway heritage in the region.
Please enjoy the images I captured on my adventure.
The Weardale Railway, situated in County Durham, England, has a rich history dating back to the 19th century. Originally constructed as an offshoot of the Stockton & Darlington Railway in 1847, the line was primarily developed to transport materials to the ironworks of Teesside. By 1895, it had been extended along the dale to Wearhead, covering a distance of 25 miles.
A significant feature along this line is the Wolsingham Station, which opened in 1847. The station building, now a private residence, is notable for its steeply pitched roofs made of stone slabs. Adjacent to the station is a large stone structure commonly referred to as the 'gunbarrel shed.' This building, now listed, was historically used for manufacturing large gun barrels and is currently utilized as a storage depot for railway projects.
In 1964, the Eastgate cement works were established, bringing renewed activity to the line. The cement was transported primarily by rail to various destinations, including Teesside, Tyneside, and Scotland. This operation continued until 1993, after which the line faced the threat of closure. However, the formation of the Weardale Railway Preservation Society in 1993 played a pivotal role in preventing the line's removal and promoting its future.
In 2004, Weardale Railways Limited purchased the line, and by July of that year, the section between Stanhope and Wolsingham was reopened for passenger services. Despite facing financial challenges and temporary suspensions, the railway has continued to operate, with services running between Stanhope and Bishop Auckland. The line is now recognized as one of the longest preserved standard gauge heritage railways in Great Britain.
The Wolsingham Train Depot, with its historical significance and continued use, remains an integral part of the Weardale Railway's operations, reflecting the enduring legacy of railway heritage in the region.
