Dixie Tunnel and Woods, Sowerby Bridge 2013

 Dixie woods is a woodland that climbs from the Calder Valley in the direction of Sowerby Townships from Hollins Mills Lane, Sowerby Bridge, before ending alongside Sowerby Bridge Cemetery. It's proper given name is Dixon Scar Woods but most local people refer to it as Dixie Woods, towards the bottom of the woods flows the River Calder and it is home to Sowerby Bridge Cricket Club, a former cycle oval, football pitch and playing fields. The woodland has a number of footpaths, some leading in the direction of Sowerby, and others in the direction of Sowerby Bridge and one that follows alongside the river in the direction of Tenterfields.

Underneath the woodland runs Dixie Tunnel, its official name is Sowerby Tunnel, but is also referred to as Sowerby Tunnel and Long Tunnel. It was opened in 1840 and is approx. 657yds long leaving the industrial town setting of Sowerby Bridge at its eastern portal before emerging westerly in a rural environment.

The path that runs from Dixie Woods to Tenterfields. The River Calder seen on the left.

Dixie Woods looking in the direction of Sowerby Bridge from Friendly. The Rochdale Canal,
Ladstone and Houghton Towers all visible in the picture.

Dixie Woods pictured from Friendly, the Rochdale Canal running across the bottom.

Path through Dixie Woods away from the tunnel portal. The River Calder can be seen
at the valley bottom.

I've looked a number of times since I took this picture but never found this face again.

The following 2 pictures were taken at the western portal (Tenterfields) of the tunnel. On the day there were no trains running, I was with other people (safety in numbers), was in full railway safety gear, and had permission to be there. Please under no circumstances attempt to access a working railway line, even though lines of sight may give confidence you'll be safe, trains move fast and can approach unknowingly if attention is not being given.

These pictures were taken on various dates in 2013 using a Samsung Galaxy Tablet, they can also be seen un-watermarked, full size and resolution on Clickasnap by clicking the image.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Beneath the Hill: Sowerby Tunnel

Ever wondered about the hidden passages that connect our towns and landscapes? Just a short stretch along the Caldervale line, nestled between Sowerby Bridge and Luddendenfoot, lies one such fascinating piece of railway history: Sowerby Tunnel. This brief video I've put together offers a glimpse into its past and present, featuring both striking images and footage collected over the last six years.

Built way back in 1840 by the pioneering Manchester & Leeds Railway, this tunnel isn't just a conduit for trains; it's a transition point. Stretching for approximately 657 yards, its eastern portal emerges directly from the bustling, industrial landscape of Sowerby Bridge. Yet, as you journey through its dark embrace, you're transported to a different world, exiting its western portal into the greener, more open country setting that gives way to Sowerby, Tenterfields, and eventually Luddendenfoot.

Interestingly, Sowerby Tunnel goes by many names. Locals often call it Dixy Tunnel, but it's also known simply as Long Tunnel or, perhaps most fittingly, Cemetery Tunnel, given that it runs directly underneath Sowerby Bridge Cemetery and the picturesque Dixon Scar Woods.

One of the pictures featured in the video, taken near the tunnel's western portal, was captured from a unique vantage point directly on the track. I want to be absolutely clear: this was done with full permission, on a day when no trains were running, and with strict adherence to all health and safety regulations. It is incredibly dangerous and illegal to enter railway property where trains operate. Doing so can lead to severe injury or even death. Please, for your safety, never trespass on railway lines or property.

Join me in the video to explore this intriguing piece of our local railway heritage!

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