Lockwood: A Station Through Time on the Penistone Line

In 2015, I embarked on a journey to capture the essence of the Penistone Line, aiming to photograph each railway station between Huddersfield and Penistone. That day, I managed to snap pictures of Berry Brow, Honley, Brockholes, Stocksmoor, Shepley, and Denby Dale. However, a few stations eluded my lens: Penistone and Huddersfield, which I still haven't visited, and Lockwood, which time simply got away from me.

Fast forward to July 25th, 2020. Back in Huddersfield, I finally made it a priority to visit Lockwood and complete my Penistone Line photographic quest. And what a fascinating stop it proved to be!

A Glimpse into Lockwood's Past

Lockwood Railway Station first opened its doors on July 1st, 1850, as a double-platform, twin-track stop. Located approximately 1.5 miles south of Huddersfield, just beyond the Lockwood Tunnel, it quickly became a vital part of the burgeoning railway network. Its significance grew further in August 1868 when it became a junction station with the opening of the Meltham Branch line for goods traffic, followed by passenger transport in July 1869.

The station remained staffed until the 1960s. However, after the closure of the Meltham Branch line in 1965, Lockwood Station, along with the entire Penistone Line, faced years of uncertainty and speculation about its future. Thankfully, the 1980s brought good news: the decision was made for the line to remain open, albeit as a single track. Today, you can still see the overgrown remains of the closed platform at Lockwood, with its connecting tunnel now blocked by a door – a silent testament to its past.

Modern Day Lockwood: A Quiet but Essential Stop

Today, Lockwood Station offers minimal facilities, including a small car park, step-free access, and a basic shelter. Despite its humble appearance, it plays an important role for local commuters. In 2018/19, the station served 40,006 passengers, averaging 769 passengers per week. While this was a decrease of over 11,000 passengers compared to 2015/16, the Penistone Line as a whole continues to be popular and is experiencing steady year-on-year growth. Lockwood Station currently enjoys hourly service in each direction daily.

The Dark History of Yew Green Tunnel

Immediately north of the station lies the 255-yard Yew Green Tunnel, more commonly known as Lockwood Tunnel. This tunnel holds a tragic secret, a grim incident that occurred even before the railway line officially opened.

In July 1849, with the tunnel complete but the tracks not yet laid, a group of men who had been drinking at a nearby inn decided to challenge each other to a race through the dark, unlit passage. Upon emerging, they realized one of their group was missing. Retracing their steps, they made a horrific discovery: the body of John Godly. It was believed he had tripped and broken his neck during the ill-fated race through the tunnel. A sobering reminder of the dangers inherent in the early days of railway construction.

Lockwood Station, with its rich history and quiet present, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Britain's railways. It's a place where you can almost hear the echoes of steam trains and imagine the lives that have passed through its platforms over the last 175 years.

Further Incidents and Industrial Echoes

The Yew Green Tunnel's unfortunate history doesn't end with John Godly. In March 1869, it was the scene of a rail crash when a passenger train and a goods train collided within its confines. Driver error was determined to be the cause, resulting in three injuries.

Just south of Lockwood Station, you'll find the impressive Lockwood Viaduct. While I didn't have time to photograph it on this visit, it's definitely on my list for a future trip! Interestingly, between the viaduct and the station lie the remains of the coal drops. These eight former coal drops, which once served the area's industrial needs, still stand today, repurposed as a car park. They also feature a tunnel that connects both sides of Howarth Lane, offering another intriguing glimpse into the past.

The pictures were taken using a Nikon d3300 on the 25th August 2020, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Please take a moment to share this post, follow me on social media, and explore my work on Photo4Me and Clickasnap using the links below. Your support means a lot!

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Denby Dale Railway Station and Viaduct

Nestled in the picturesque village of Denby Dale, West Yorkshire, lies a railway station that, at first glance, might seem unassuming. Today, Denby Dale Station offers a modest set of facilities, serving as a practical stop on the Penistone Line. But dig a little deeper, and you'll unearth a fascinating past, revealing a grander vision that once graced this tranquil corner of Kirklees.

From Grand Beginnings to Modern Simplicity

Imagine Denby Dale on July 1, 1850. This wasn't just another station opening; it was a significant event. The original Denby Dale Railway Station was a much larger, more imposing structure than its modern counterpart. Picture multiple buildings, expansive platforms, and tracks running in both directions – a bustling hub reflecting the ambition of the railway age.

The station was initially planned by the Huddersfield and Sheffield Junction Railway, who secured parliamentary permission for the line in June 1845. However, by the time the first trains pulled into Denby Dale, ownership had changed hands. In a series of mergers that reshaped Britain's railway landscape, the Huddersfield and Sheffield Junction Railway, along with many others, had become part of the formidable Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway in July 1847. This amalgamation brought a vast network under single ownership, and Denby Dale became a cog in a much larger machine.

The Evolution of the Penistone Line

Over the decades, railway lines often undergo transformations to adapt to changing needs and economic realities. The Penistone Line, on which Denby Dale sits, is a prime example. While much of the line north of Stocksmoor Station was singled at a later date, the section passing through Denby Dale saw its reduction much earlier. In 1969, the line was singled from Clayton West Junction to Penistone, directly affecting Denby Dale Station. This meant the removal of the northbound platform, its accompanying buildings, and the original entrance. Today, there's little to suggest the former grandeur, a testament to the ever-evolving nature of railway infrastructure.

Denby Dale Today: A Vital Link for the Community

Despite its reduced size, Denby Dale Station remains a vital artery for the local community. It may lack the extensive facilities of its past – you won't find toilets or refreshments directly on the platform – but the village centre is just a short, pleasant walk away, offering all the amenities a traveler might need.

The station is far from a forgotten relic. With an impressive average of 3,442 passengers per week utilizing its services, Denby Dale is a busy little station. It offers a convenient hourly service in each direction from Monday to Saturday, connecting residents to Huddersfield, Sheffield, and beyond.

Denby Dale Station stands as a subtle reminder of the intricate history of Britain's railways – a place where the echoes of a grand past meet the practicality of modern-day travel. It's a testament to how infrastructure adapts, serving its purpose while holding onto a whisper of its former glory.

The pictures below were taken on the 21st May 2016 with a Nikon d3300, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The start of Denby Dale Viaduct is just visible down the track.

When the whistle first blew at Denby Dale Station in 1850, trains didn't glide over the magnificent stone arches we see today. Instead, they traversed a timber viaduct, a testament to the prevailing economic realities of the time. The sheer cost of local stone made a permanent masonry structure an unaffordable luxury, forcing the railway company to opt for a seemingly temporary, albeit substantial, wooden solution.

Despite concerns, and even a visit from the Board of Trade – indicating the significant scrutiny such an unusual choice attracted – the timber viaduct stood its ground for over two decades. It wasn't until March 1877, under immense pressure from the burgeoning Huddersfield County Borough Council, that the railway company finally caved. The push for a more robust and permanent structure was undeniable, reflecting a growing civic pride and a demand for infrastructure that matched the ambitions of the industrial age.

The very next September, in 1877, work began on its stone successor, rising majestically adjacent to its wooden predecessor. Imagine the scene: the old timber structure still carrying trains overhead as the new, monumental stone arches steadily took shape below. This feat of engineering culminated in the grand opening of the new viaduct on May 15, 1880.

Today, the Denby Dale Viaduct is not just a functional part of the railway line; it's a cherished historical landmark. With its impressive 21 arches, it stands as a Grade II listed structure, a silent sentinel overlooking the valley, perpetually reminding us of the ingenuity, perseverance, and evolving landscape of Victorian railway construction.

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All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Brockholes Railway Station: A History of Change and Resilience

Brockholes Railway Station, situated approximately four miles south of Huddersfield in West Yorkshire, serves the village of Brockholes on the scenic Penistone Line. Its story is one of expansion, decline, and eventual preservation, reflecting the broader trends in British railway history.

Early Development and the Holmfirth Branch:

• 1850: A Vital Junction: The station opened on July 1, 1850, alongside the Penistone Line, built by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway. Critically, it also marked the inauguration of the Holmfirth Branch Line, transforming Brockholes into a significant junction. This strategic importance led to its temporary designation as "Brockholes Junction" during the 19th century.
• Economic Significance: The railway's arrival spurred economic growth in Brockholes and the surrounding Holme Valley. It facilitated the transport of goods, particularly textiles from the local mills, and provided crucial passenger connections.

Decline and the Beeching Era:

• Holmfirth Branch Closure (1959): The closure of the Holmfirth Branch Line in 1959 marked a significant turning point. This loss reduced the station's importance and foreshadowed future challenges.
• The Beeching Axe (1963-1966): Dr. Richard Beeching's report in 1963 recommended the closure of numerous unprofitable railway lines and stations, including Brockholes. While the Ministry of Transport initially refused closure in April 1966, the cessation of goods traffic in 1965 led to the station's downgrading to an unmanned halt in August 1966. This transition reflected the shift from a full-service station to a basic passenger stop.
• Demolition and Privatization (1970s): The decline continued with the demolition of some station buildings during the 1970s. The Station Master's house and offices on the "up" (Huddersfield-bound) platform were sold into private ownership, further reducing the station's operational footprint.

Survival and Preservation:

• Threats of Closure (1980s): The threat of complete closure resurfaced in the 1980s, highlighting the ongoing financial pressures on the railway network.
• Single-Line Operation (1989): In 1989, the double track was reduced to a single line, a common cost-saving measure on less busy routes. This resulted in the "down" (Sheffield-bound) platform becoming the sole operational platform.
• Heritage Restoration: In more recent times, there has been a focus on preserving the station's heritage. The disused "up" platform and buildings have been restored, complete with period-appropriate signage, offering a glimpse into the station's past. This restoration is often done by local volunteer groups, who have great passion for the railway.
• Current Usage: Despite its reduced infrastructure, Brockholes Railway Station remains a vital transport link for the local community. It handles approximately 60,000 passengers annually, demonstrating its continued importance. The station itself consists of a simple shelter on the active platform. Services are provided by Northern Trains.
• Community Importance: The penistone line and its stations are very important to the communities they serve. The line is used by commuters, students, and leasure travellers. The line also gives access to rural areas.

The pictures below were taken on the 21st May 2016 with a Nikon d3300 SLR camera. Clicking any of the images below should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Thanks for looking, please take a moment to share and follow me on social media and check out my portfolio on Photo4Me via the link below.

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.

Berry Brow Railway Station.

Nestled amidst the rolling hills of the Holme Valley, Berry Brow railway, originally opened on the 1st July 1850, as part of the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway, the station served the local community until its closure on the 2nd July 1966, before reopening on the 9th October 1989 300 yards from the site of the original station. Both Halts witnessed countless journeys and stories unfold within its walls.

Today, Berry Brow station operates as a delightful single platform halt on the scenic Penistone Line. Passengers can hop on and off, enjoying the convenience of a quick commute or embarking on a leisurely exploration of the surrounding countryside. The station itself boasts a quaint charm with its single platform hidden away inside a railway cutting.

Beyond the station lies a treasure trove of sights and experiences. The village of Berry Brow itself is a quaint haven, offering traditional pubs, cosy cafes, and independent shops nestled amidst charming stone cottages. For the more adventurous, the surrounding hills beckon with their hiking trails, panoramic views, and hidden waterfalls.

Berry Brow station is more than just a transport hub; it's a vital part of the community fabric. Local residents gather here for daily commutes, weekend outings, or simply to meet friends and family visiting.

Whether you're a train enthusiast, a history buff, or simply seeking a charming escape, Berry Brow Station is a worthwhile destination. Trains run regularly from Huddersfield and Sheffield, making it easily accessible. So, pack your bags, hop on board, and discover the magic of Berry Brow Station for yourself!

 

I took a total of 5 pictures at the station on May 21st, 2016 with a Nikon d3300 SLR camera. Clicking any image should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

Thanks for looking, and please take a moment to share and follow me on social media and check out my portfolio on Photo4Me via the link below.

All links open in another window.

All the pictures remain the copyright of Colin Green.