Train Stations of the Calder Valley

Train Stations of the Calder Valley is a new slideshow I have uploaded to YouTube which features pictures of every currently open Railway Station in Calderdale taken since 2013. The following station feature. in the video.

Brighouse Railway Station.

Opened 1840 - Closed 1970

Reopened 2000

Halifax Railway Station.

Opened 1844 - Re sighted to current place 1855

Hebden Bridge Railway Station.

Opened 1840

Myholmroyd Railway Station.

Opened 1841 - Rebuilt 1871- Rebuilt again 1980's

Sowerby Bridge Railway Station.

Opened 1840 - Re sighted to current place 1876

Todmorden Railway Station.

Opened 1841

Walsden Railway Station.

Opened 1845 - Closed 1961

Reopened 1990

I look forward to adding Elland to this when it reopens in 2022, and the potential reopening of both Hipperholme Station and Cornholme (Portsmouth), Todmorden Station if they come to pass.

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Hebden Bridge Railway Station, July 2018

Opened in October 1840, the station was the end of the line until New Years Eve 1840 when the line was completed to Summit Tunnel, Walsden. Trains through the tunnel to Manchester were in operation from March 1841 when services ran from Leeds to Manchester through the station. Services to Halifax and Bradford commenced in 1852. The current station buildings were completed in 1893, and the station car park was the site of the station goods yard until 1966. During renovation in 1997 signage was installed in the colours of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway.

The station is manned and has toilets and ticket facilities, it also features a small café and has access to buses immediately outside the main entrance. There is disabled access to the Leeds bond platform but currently access to platform 1, trains towards Lancashire and Manchester is only accessible via steps. There are plans to reinstate the lifts between the platforms which have been out of use since the 1980's. The station has 3 Manchester bound trains per hour and 1 towards Preston from Platform 1. Platform 2 has 4 Leeds bound services per hour, 3 via Bradford Interchange and another through Dewsbury.

 The pictures were taken with a Nikon d3300 on the 21st July 2018, they can be seen below with a number also available to view on Clickasnap un-watermarked. I took a set of pictures mainly featuring the westbound in August 2017, they can be seen in a earlier post.

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Sowerby Bridge Floods, 3 Years Later

Boxing Day 2015 saw flooding devastate the Calder Valley from Todmorden through to Brighouse, including my home town of Sowerby Bridge. I took a small set of pictures then of the ongoing flooding and with time to pass this morning, I thought I would return to roughly the same area and re picture some of them. The pictures below can only be seen on this blog post, however clicking any image should open a link in another window to my Clickasnap Profile.

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Beyond the Gondolas: Uncovering the Unexpected Gateway to Venice

Venice. The very name conjures images of gliding gondolas, intricate canals, and the shimmering reflections of ancient palazzi dancing on the water. Like many, my initial understanding was of a city entirely adrift, a jewel-like archipelago rising miraculously from the lagoon. And while the reality holds that enchanting truth, there's also a fascinating, less-celebrated connection to the mainland – a slender lifeline in the form of a bridge that carries the pulse of modern transport to this timeless city.

It might seem almost a contradiction, this terrestrial link to a place so defined by its waterways. Yet, as a self-confessed enthusiast of railway architecture and the stories held within their walls, the existence of Venezia Santa Lucia Railway Station and its connection via the Ponte della Libertà (Liberty Bridge) held a particular intrigue for me. So, on Wednesday, October 31st, 2018 – a day blessed with the most glorious sunshine of our five-day Venetian sojourn – my mission was clear: to seek out this vital artery and capture its essence.

The story of Venezia Santa Lucia begins in 1860, a time of great industrial and societal change across Europe. Its location, poignantly, marks the former site of the Church of Santa Lucia, from which the station derives its name – a subtle nod to the city's layered history. However, the bridge that delivers both rail and road to its doorstep predates the station itself. The original Venice Railroad bridge emerged in 1846, a pioneering feat of engineering that first tethered the islands to the mainland.

The 20th century brought significant transformations. In the 1930s, recognizing the burgeoning need for vehicular access, the bridge underwent a substantial metamorphosis, gaining roadways that would forever alter its character and connect the north eastern reaches of Venice by land. It was around this period, too, that the station building began its own evolution. Finally completed in 1952, Venezia Santa Lucia adopted the clean, modern lines we see today – a conscious design choice, it's said, to harmonize rather than compete with the grandeur of its historic surroundings. Further renovations between 2009 and 2012 enhanced the station's functionality, adding contemporary retail spaces while striving to improve the overall passenger experience.

Stepping inside Venezia Santa Lucia is like entering a crossroads of eras. The echoing announcements in Italian, the hurried footsteps of travellers, and the glint of sunlight through the vast glass canopy create a vibrant atmosphere. From its 23 platforms, countless journeys begin and end, a constant ebb and flow of people connecting Venice to the wider world.

Venice, of course, will always be celebrated for its canals and gondolas. But understanding its connection to the mainland, symbolized by the enduring presence of Venezia Santa Lucia and the Liberty Bridge, adds another layer of appreciation to this extraordinary place. It's a testament to the ingenuity that allows us to seamlessly transition from the familiar rhythm of roads and rails to the unique, watery embrace of this timeless wonder.

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The Tyne Tunnel, North and South.

Ah, the Tyne Tunnel! It's more than just a way to zip under the river; it's a fascinating slice of engineering history and a vital artery connecting communities. Let's delve a little deeper, shall we?

That stretch of the A19, about seven miles west of the bustling heart of Newcastle upon Tyne, dips beneath the majestic River Tyne, offering a crucial link between the vibrant town of Jarrow on the south bank and the coastal charm of North Shields on the opposite side. But the road tunnel we know today is just one piece of a larger vision conceived to bridge the Tyne.

Back in 1967, the original tunnel emerged as a testament to ambitious engineering, providing a much-needed road crossing. However, the story doesn't end there. The project was actually a forward-thinking initiative that envisioned a trio of crossings, catering not just to vehicles but also to those on foot and bicycles. Imagine the foresight in planning for such diverse modes of transport!

Fast forward to 2011, and the landscape changed significantly. To the east of the original bore, a brand new, twin-lane tunnel was completed. This wasn't just about adding capacity; it was a strategic move that allowed for a much-needed refurbishment of the original tunnel. Now, the two tunnels work in tandem, with the newer one efficiently carrying southbound traffic, while the meticulously restored original handles the northbound flow. This clever configuration has undoubtedly eased congestion and improved travel times for countless commuters and travellers.

And then you, with your dashcam on the 29th of March, 2018, captured a moment in the life of these vital tunnels. The main video, showcasing the northbound journey, with the southbound perspective neatly overlaid – that's a really interesting way to visualize the parallel paths these tunnels take. Adding background music likely enhances the viewing experience, perhaps adding a sense of motion or atmosphere to the everyday commute.

It's quite something to think about the sheer volume of journeys these tunnels have facilitated since their inception. They're not just concrete tubes under a river; they're lifelines that connect people, businesses, and communities on both banks of the Tyne.

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Cruising the Clyde Corridor: A Driver's Perspective from Port Glasgow to Uddingston

The stretch of road connecting the industrial heritage of Port Glasgow to the more suburban landscape of Uddingston might seem like a straightforward hop across the central belt of Scotland. Clocking in at roughly 27 miles (or 43 kms), the journey is predominantly a ribbon of modern infrastructure, stitched together by the A8, M8, and M74 – a trio of motorways and dual carriageways designed for efficient transit.

For those behind the wheel of a wagon, as I was on that somewhat un-summery August 14th, 2018, this translates to a travel time of around 34 to 40 minutes when the traffic gods are smiling. And thankfully, on that particular day, the roads were indeed serene, even if the skies above weren't exactly radiating summer cheer.

But beyond the straightforward efficiency, this route holds fleeting glimpses of Scotland's character, particularly in its early stages. Just 43 seconds into the drive, as you merge onto the A8, the landscape opens up, revealing tantalizing breaks in the treeline. Through these natural frames, the majestic River Clyde comes into view, a vital artery that has shaped the fortunes of this region for centuries. For a good two minutes and nine seconds thereafter, the silvery ribbon of water accompanies the road, a constant reminder of the maritime history etched into the very fabric of Port Glasgow.

It's a view that truly deserves more than a fleeting glance. Imagine the bustling shipyards that once lined these banks, the echoes of industry and the stories of countless vessels launched onto the world's oceans. The Clyde, in this section, isn't just a river; it's a living testament to Scotland's shipbuilding prowess and its connection to global trade. Sadly, the limitations of my camera angle meant capturing the full, breathtaking beauty of this coastal and riverside panorama proved elusive. Trust me, though – the reality is a vista that stirs the soul.

Later in the journey, there's a notable stretch of freshly laid tarmac as you transition onto the new section of motorway connecting Junction 21 of the M8 to Junction 3 of the M74. It's a smooth, modern testament to infrastructure development, designed to streamline travel across the region.

However, beyond these specific points – the captivating glimpses of the Clyde and the smooth glide of the new motorway section – the remainder of the drive is, admittedly, less visually striking. The landscape becomes more functional, focused on the efficient movement of people and goods.

Yet, even in the seemingly mundane stretches of motorway, there's a story to be told. These roads are the lifelines of the central belt, connecting communities, facilitating commerce, and enabling the everyday movements that underpin modern life. While the scenery might not always be picture-postcard perfect, it's a vital part of the Scottish landscape, a testament to its industrious spirit and its ongoing development.

So, while my journey from Port Glasgow to Uddingston on that August day might not have been filled with dramatic twists and turns, it offered moments of genuine beauty and a reminder of the historical and economic significance of this well-traveled route. Sometimes, even the most functional of journeys can offer glimpses into the heart and soul of a place, if you know where – and when – to look.

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Stepping Back in Time at Hebden Bridge Station: A Journey Through History and Connectivity

While passing through the vibrant town of Hebden Bridge recently, my feet, familiar with its cobbled streets and independent spirit, instinctively led me towards the railway station. More than just a transport hub, Hebden Bridge Station stands as a proud testament to the region's rich industrial heritage, a living museum where the echoes of steam engines and bustling crowds still seem to linger. On this particular occasion, time was fleeting, allowing me only to capture the essence of the westbound platform – a snapshot that nevertheless speaks volumes about this remarkable place.

To declare Hebden Bridge Station the "best looking" in Calderdale is perhaps subjective, yet its undeniable charm lies in the remarkable preservation of its original character. Stepping onto the platform is akin to stepping back in time. The sturdy stone architecture, the intricate ironwork, and the thoughtful touches that whisper tales of a bygone era all contribute to an atmosphere rarely found in modern transport interchanges.

The station's story began in October 1840, a pivotal moment that initially marked the westernmost reach of the burgeoning railway line. Imagine the anticipation of that time, the sense of connection as Hebden Bridge became a crucial link in the unfolding railway network. Just a few short months later, on New Year's Eve of that same year, the line extended further, piercing through the formidable Summit Tunnel towards Walsden. This engineering marvel paved the way for through services from Leeds to the industrial heartlands of Manchester, commencing in March 1841, with Hebden Bridge playing a vital role as a key stop along this transformative route. The subsequent arrival of services to Halifax and Bradford in 1852 further cemented the station's importance in connecting the communities of the Calder Valley.

The current station buildings, completed in 1893, stand as enduring monuments to Victorian engineering and architectural style. One can almost picture the flurry of activity within their walls as passengers, goods, and news flowed through this vital artery. It's fascinating to consider that the very ground now occupied by the station car park once echoed with the sounds of a bustling goods yard, a hub of commerce until 1966. This transformation from industry to modern transport underscores the evolving role of the station within the community.

A thoughtful nod to the past arrived during the 1997 renovations with the installation of signage in the distinctive colours of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway. This subtle yet significant detail serves as a constant reminder of the station's historical roots, a visual thread connecting the present with its proud railway heritage.

Today, Hebden Bridge Station remains a vital and well-maintained gateway. Manned by helpful staff, it offers essential amenities such as toilets and ticket facilities. The presence of a small café provides a welcome space for commuters and visitors alike to grab a coffee and soak in the station's atmosphere. Its convenient location, with bus access immediately outside the main entrance, further enhances its role as a key transport link.

While progress has brought improvements, challenges remain. Currently, disabled access is available to the Leeds-bound platform, but reaching Platform 1, serving trains towards Lancashire and Manchester, still requires navigating steps. However, there is a promising glimmer of progress on the horizon with plans to reinstate the long-dormant lifts between the platforms, a much-needed improvement that will enhance accessibility for all. These lifts, sadly out of use since the 1980s, represent a tangible opportunity to fully modernize the station while respecting its historical fabric.

In terms of connectivity, Hebden Bridge Station offers a robust service. From Platform 1, three trains depart hourly towards Manchester, connecting the town to the wider northwest region, alongside an additional hourly service to Preston. Platform 2 buzzes with even greater frequency, offering four Leeds-bound services each hour, providing connections to the vibrant city and beyond. Notably, these services offer different routes, with three traversing the bustling interchange of Bradford and another heading through the historic town of Dewsbury, offering a variety of travel options for passengers.

Captured on a sunny August afternoon in 2017 with my trusty Nikon D3300, the photograph I took offers a small window into the enduring appeal of Hebden Bridge Station. It's more than just bricks and mortar; it's a living link to the past, a vital artery for the present, and a place brimming with the quiet dignity of a station that has faithfully served its community for nearly two centuries. As I moved on, the image of the westbound platform remained with me, a reminder of the beauty and history that can be found in the most unexpected of places, waiting to be appreciated by those who take a moment to look closer.

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Unveiling the Secrets of the Hollins Tunnel and Wier: A Glimpse into Sowerby Bridge's Industrial Past

Recently, I ventured out with my camera to capture a couple of short film clips showcasing a fascinating corner of Sowerby Bridge: the weir and the enigmatic Hollins Tunnel. These aren't just any local landmarks; they're tangible links to our industrial heritage, whispering tales of a time when waterways were the lifeblood of commerce. You can now find these glimpses of history on my YouTube channel 

One of the stars of these clips is Hollins Tunnel, or Hollins Mill Tunnel as it's also known. More than just a passage beneath Hollins Mill Lane, this canal tunnel stands as a testament to the ambitious engineering feats of over two centuries ago. Imagine this: back in 1804, this very tunnel played a crucial role in the opening of a vital artery – a canal connecting the bustling Calder & Hebble Navigation right here in Sowerby Bridge with the distant Bridgewater Canal in Manchester. It's a connection that fuelled trade and transformed the landscape.

What strikes me most about Hollins Tunnel is its sheer scale. Stretching out as the longest canal tunnel in Yorkshire, it possesses a certain imposing presence, especially when you step into its cool, damp interior. There's a palpable sense of history within those stone walls, a feeling of countless boats having passed through its darkness, laden with goods and the aspirations of a bygone era.

My filming on the 6th of December 2018 aimed to capture this duality. At either end of the tunnel, you can witness the contrast between the daylight and the encroaching shadows. But it's inside the tunnel where the atmosphere truly shifts. The air grows still and carries a damp chill, the only sounds perhaps the echoing drip of water or the rustle of unseen life. It can feel quite an intimidating place in the dark, a silent sentinel guarding the secrets of the past.

These short clips are more than just visual snapshots; they're an invitation to connect with a piece of Sowerby Bridge's identity. They offer a moment to consider the ingenuity and sheer hard work that went into creating these waterways and the tunnels that facilitated their reach. I hope you'll take a few moments to watch them and perhaps gain a new appreciation for the enduring legacy of Hollins.

Hollins Mill Weir.

Cruising along the tranquil Calder and Hebble Navigation near Sowerby Bridge, a subtle yet persistent murmur often drifts through the still air within the canal tunnel. It's the voice of Hollins Mill Weir, a historic structure lying just beyond the darkness, so close you can almost feel its spray, yet often remaining just out of sight.

For generations, this now-partially submerged cascade wasn't just a sound; it was the lifeblood of the bustling mills that once defined this stretch of the Calder Valley. These mills, now consigned to the annals of history and the leveled earth, hummed with the energy harnessed by the very water that now tumbles over the weir. Imagine the rhythmic thrum of machinery, powered by the relentless force of the river – a stark contrast to the peaceful quietude that envelops the canal today. The weir, in its current silent vigil, stands as a poignant monument to that industrious past, a stone sentinel whispering tales of a vibrant era.

However, the weir's story isn't just one of bygone industry. It's also a testament to the raw power of nature and the resilience of the landscape. The devastating Boxing Day floods of 2015 ripped through the Calder Valley with terrifying force, and Hollins Mill Weir was not spared. A significant section of its structure succumbed to the deluge, a stark reminder of the day the river turned from a source of power to an agent of destruction. While the visual evidence of this damage might be elusive in a fleeting glimpse from the canal, the absence is a palpable part of the weir's current narrative.

On a crisp December 6th, the water flowed over the remaining stones, perhaps carrying echoes of both its industrious past and its more recent battering. To listen to the weir's constant rush is to connect with layers of history – the ingenuity of those who harnessed its power, the destructive force of the floods, and the quiet perseverance of a landmark that continues to shape the soundscape of this waterway. It's a reminder that even in apparent stillness, the past continues to resonate.

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Drifting Down the Grand Canal: A Venetian Symphony in Stone and Water

I'm thrilled to share my latest video, a 9-minute and 29-second journey along the shimmering spine of Venice – the Grand Canal. Captured from the unique vantage point of the vaporetto, that quintessential Venetian water bus, this clip offers a captivating perspective as we glide from the Casino S. Marcuola stop towards the majestic Rialto Bridge.

For centuries, the Grand Canal has served as the city's main thoroughfare, a liquid stage upon which the drama of Venetian life unfolds. As our vaporetto gently cuts through the jade-green water, you'll be treated to a living tapestry of architectural splender. Each palazzo that lines the canal tells a story, whispering tales of powerful families, artistic patronage, and the enduring legacy of this extraordinary city.

From the ornate facades adorned with intricate carvings to the subtle reflections dancing on the water's surface, the visual feast is simply breath taking. Imagine the generations who have gazed upon these same stones, witnessed the same play of light and shadow. This short journey offers a glimpse into that timeless beauty.

To further enhance the experience, I've overlaid the video with the timeless elegance of Johann Strauss II's "The Blue Danube." Its waltz-like rhythm perfectly complements the gentle sway of the boat and the graceful unfolding of the cityscape. It's a pairing I hope you'll find both soothing and evocative.

Whether you've strolled the calli of Venice before or dream of visiting one day, I invite you to take a moment to immerse yourself in this aquatic ballet of architecture and music. Allow yourself to be transported along the Grand Canal, to soak in the atmosphere, and to appreciate the sheer artistry etched into every building.

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A Gentle Giant Glides into Venice: An Unexpected Encounter with the MSC Lirica

The early morning air in Venice holds a unique kind of magic. On the 2nd of November, 2018, I found myself on the Riva degli Schiavoni, that iconic waterfront promenade stretching before the magnificent St. Mark's Square. My mission? To witness the legendary Venetian sunrise paint the city in hues of gold and rose. Alas, the capricious autumn skies had other plans, draping a soft blanket of cloud across the horizon.

While the sun remained stubbornly hidden, a different kind of spectacle began to unfold on the tranquil waters of the Venetian Lagoon. A hush fell over the early risers as a majestic form emerged in the distance – the unmistakable silhouette of a cruise ship. It was the MSC Lirica, gracefully making her way towards the heart of Venice, a floating city within a city.

Intrigued, I abandoned my sunrise vigil and instead focused my Nikon D3300 on this impressive arrival. The Lirica, a vessel that first graced the seas in 2003 at a cost of around $250 million, possesses a certain grandeur as she navigates these historic waterways. Capable of carrying up to 2,600 passengers, she's a testament to modern engineering against the timeless backdrop of Venice.

Watching her glide through the lagoon was a captivating experience. The gentle lapping of the water against her hull, the distant hum of her engines, and the sheer scale of the ship against the familiar landmarks of Venice created a striking juxtaposition. It sparked a sense of wonder, imagining the perspectives of the passengers on board as they approached this unique and enchanting city from the sea. Oh, how I wished I were on deck, capturing the intricate details of the Venetian skyline from that vantage point!

The MSC Lirica's journey into the port was a reminder of the constant interplay between Venice's rich history and its contemporary reality. While debates about the impact of large cruise ships on the delicate ecosystem and infrastructure of Venice continue, there's no denying the visual impact of these modern behemoths against the ancient stones.

This unexpected encounter transformed a cloudy morning into a memorable one. It served as a reminder that even when nature doesn't cooperate with our plans, there are always other wonders to behold, if only we remain open to them.

You can witness this gentle giant's arrival for yourself in the short video I captured that morning. It's available to view [here - insert your link] and also on my YouTube channel [insert your YouTube link]. I hope it offers you a glimpse into the unique beauty of Venice and the impressive sight of a cruise ship making its grand entrance.

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Whispers of Coal and Controversy, Walker Pit: Unearthing the Story of Miss Lister's Lost Mine

Imagine strolling through the verdant landscape of Shibden Park, the gentle incline of the path leading you upwards towards the panoramic vistas from Beacon Hill. As you walk, you might pass a curious, ornate structure – a seemingly out-of-place piece of architectural flourish amidst the natural beauty. This, my friends, is more than just an interesting relic; it's a silent testament to ambition, partnership, and a touch of Yorkshire grit. This is all that remains of a coal pit with a fascinating story, a pit quite literally paid for by the indomitable Anne Lister and named in honour of her beloved partner, Ann Walker.

Step back to 1835. Shibden Hall, the ancestral home of Anne Lister, needed fuel for its hearths and industry. To meet this demand, the resourceful "Gentleman Jack" commissioned John Mann to dig a pit, strategically located to serve both the Hall and the burgeoning community nearby. This wasn't just any excavation; it was a venture spearheaded by a woman of vision, a woman who dared to engage in the traditionally male-dominated world of industry.

The pit, affectionately (or perhaps with a hint of knowing respect) known as "Miss Lister's Mine," was a tangible symbol of Anne and Ann's life together, a shared enterprise rooted in practicality and perhaps even a touch of shared ambition. It speaks volumes about their partnership, a bond that defied societal norms and extended into the economic realities of their lives.

However, the story of Miss Lister's Mine wasn't without its drama. The competitive world of coal mining in the 19th century often led to friction, and our intrepid landowner found herself embroiled in a dispute with a neighbouring colliery owner, the formidable Christopher Rawson. We can only imagine the spirited exchanges and perhaps even the legal wrangling that ensued as these two strong personalities clashed over resources and territory beneath the Yorkshire soil.

Today, the bustling activity of the mine is long gone. The dark seams of coal have been exhausted, the clanging of tools silenced. Yet, the elegant ventilation shaft stands as a poignant reminder of this industrious past. Its ornate design, perhaps a reflection of Anne Lister's own refined tastes, hints at a level of care and even pride in this venture. It's a beautiful anomaly in the landscape, a whisper of a time when the ground beneath our feet was a source of energy and contention.

So, the next time you find yourself traversing that path from Shibden Park to Beacon Hill, take a moment to pause at this intriguing structure. Let your imagination conjure the scene: the busy workers, the carts laden with coal, the determined figure of Anne Lister overseeing her enterprise, and the quiet support of Ann Walker. This isn't just a walk through picturesque scenery; it's a journey through history, a tangible link to the remarkable lives and enduring legacy of the women who once shaped this very landscape. It's a reminder that even in the quietest corners of our world, fascinating stories lie waiting to be unearthed.

There are 2 set of pictures taken around the tower by me. Clicking any of the images should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The first set shown below was taken on the 1st June 2014 using a Polaroid is2132 bridge camera. 

On this occasion i'd never heard of Walker pit and thought that the tower was part of the ventilation for the Beacon Hill railway tunnel that runs beneath the ground here.

I was passing by again in August 2018 and took the following pictures of the tower, it was largely covered by the hedges that run alongside the path at this time. The tower itself is on private land and I understand the landowner would rather have people keep away from it, which is understandable.

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