South Tynedale Railway: A Journey through Time

The South Tynedale Railway is a preserved heritage railway that runs on steam and diesel locomotives along the South Tyne Valley. It is the second-highest narrow gauge railway in England, following the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway in North Devon. You can experience the beauty of the countryside as well as the delightful wildlife as you travel along this historic railway. 

The South Tynedale Railway traces its roots to the former Haltwhistle to Alston branch line, which was originally opened in various stages during 1851 and 1852. Operating for over a century, the line saw various changes and was eventually inherited by British Railways from the London and North Eastern Railway (LNER). However, the Alston branch line faced closure with the last trains running on Saturday, May 1, 1976. Tynedale Railway now occupies the historic route, preserving and continuing the legacy of this railway through the picturesque landscapes of Tynedale.

After the closure of the Alston branch in 1976, the South Tynedale Railway Preservation Society was formed. There were several attempts to create some changes and expand the railway. Finally, in 1980, the decision was approved for a narrow gauge line.

Simultaneously, Cumbria County Council undertook the redevelopment of the Alston station site.

The Preservation Society was also granted permission to use a strip of land adjacent to the Alston station platform. A few rooms were also allocated to the Society for the establishment of a small display and a tourist information centre.

The station at Alston is now the headquarters of the restored line and has seen significant changes since the railway closed. The station is currently devoted to workshops and tourism, with thousands of people visiting the station every year.

The original two-storey station building now accommodates the shop and ticket office. A 1904 extension to the building is currently for additional facilities like men’s toilets.

Extending to a current length of 8 kilometres, the South Tynedale Railway expanded by an additional 2 kilometres to Slaggyford in 2017. The railway passes through Kirkhaugh and Lintley Halt on the way and ends in Slaggyford.

The Society uses locomotives, which were obtained from various sources both in and out of the UK. Some of the equipment is newly built and designed for the purpose, but the rest is mostly second-hand and some is modified.

Three steam locomotives are operational on the railway. The first one is Naklo, previously in the service of a Polish factory. It underwent a reconstruction in Alston, during which the side tanks were removed and an enhanced tender was installed.

The second one is Green Dragon, which was purchased for preservation in 1997. After some restorations, it has been operational since 2019. The third one is Barber, the only surviving locomotive of Thomas Green and Company Limited of Leeds. 

The four diesel locomotives are Naworth, Number 9, Cumbria, and Old Rusty. Naworth was built in 1953 and was transported to Alston in 1981. Like Naworth, Number 9 was built in 1952 by the Hunslet Engine Company of Leeds but started operation in Alston much later in 1994.

Cumbria is pretty newer, built in 1967. Some members of the Society then purchased it and brought it to Alston in 1990. Old Rusty of 1961 is the last one on the list.

Apart from the steam and diesel engines, the South Tynedale Railway has two locomotives operating on batteries. One is called Carlisle and the other is Newcastle. 

The tickets are priced at £15 for adults, £7.50 for children aged 3-17, and free for infants aged 0-2. Passengers have the flexibility to travel all day with these tickets. Wheelchair accessible spaces can be arranged by indicating the need during booking.

For one-way or station hopper journeys involving Kirkhaugh or Lintley, tickets can be purchased on the day of travel from Alston or Slaggyford. One-way tickets for adults cost £7.50; children aged 3-17 are £3.75. Dogs travel for free, and passengers should collect a dog ticket from the ticket office.

Accompanied by a dedicated team, the Crossing Café offers a delectable menu of hot and cold dishes, as well as an enticing array of homemade cakes. The cafe is dog-friendly and also has a spacious car park equipped with cycle racks for bikes.

Operating from Wednesday to Sunday, the Crossing Café opens its doors from 10 a.m. to 3.30 p.m., inviting guests to savour not just a meal but a delightful pause in the midst of their scenic travels.

South Tynedale Railway is only 7 minutes away from the Lovelady Shield Hotel by car. Our country house property offers a charming retreat, situated in one of the most picturesque locations in Cumbria. Boasting 14 en-suite rooms and 5 delightful Cumbrian cottages, visitors are welcomed in both comfort and the serene beauty of the surrounding countryside.

Apart from the comfortable accommodations, the Lovelady Shield Hotel offers an array of soft drinks and beverages at the Coffee Lounge. It is a great place for guests and the public to meet and catch a break.