The Subterranean Secret of Holmfield: A Glimpse into Queensbury Tunnel

Deep within the verdant landscape near Holmfield, a submerged secret lies hidden beneath a seemingly ordinary field. The Queensbury Tunnel, a monumental relic of Victorian engineering, is a testament to the ambition of the railway age and a captivating glimpse into a world now lost to time and water. These photographs, captured in July 2015, offer a rare and fascinating look at a section of this extraordinary structure, revealing both its forgotten surface features and its silent, waterlogged entrance.

The first image captures a curious concrete disc, a solitary manhole cover in the middle of a sun-drenched, grassy field. The long grass sways around it, creating a natural camouflage that would easily allow it to go unnoticed by the casual observer. This disc is no ordinary cover; it's a cap over one of the tunnel's ventilation shafts. These shafts were a vital part of the tunnel's design, providing much-needed air and allowing smoke from the steam locomotives to escape. In its quiet existence, this concrete cap is a powerful symbol of the colossal effort that went into building this tunnel. It speaks of a deep, unseen world, a world of iron and steam, that lies directly below. It’s a literal and figurative lid on history, hinting at a vast, dark space that has been sealed off from the world above for decades.

The other two images transport us to a different scene, one of profound stillness and mystery. Here, the tunnel's entrance is not a grand, arched portal but a tranquil, flooded chasm. The water, a striking shade of turquoise, reflects the sky and the surrounding foliage, creating a deceptive sense of serenity. Looking closer, we see the remnants of the tunnel's mouth. Two rusty pipes, possibly part of a former drainage system, emerge from the brickwork, their corroded ends facing the glassy water. The brick lining, discoloured and weathered by time, forms the backdrop to this aquatic scene. The water level is high, completely obscuring the track bed and swallowing the entrance in a liquid embrace.

These two photographs, seemingly identical but for the subtle shifts in light and reflection, capture a moment of perfect stasis. The tunnel is no longer a path for roaring trains but a calm, silent pool, a final resting place for its industrial past. The small trees and shrubs that have taken root around the entrance are a powerful symbol of nature's relentless reclamation. They are weaving themselves into the man-made structure, blurring the line between the natural world and the engineering marvel that once existed here. The reflection in the water adds a ghostly dimension, mirroring the overgrown surroundings and creating an ethereal portrait of a place in transition.

Together, these images paint a compelling picture of the Queensbury Tunnel at Holmfield. The concrete disc in the field and the flooded entrance at the hillside's edge are two sides of the same coin—one represents the hidden infrastructure on the surface, while the other reveals the silent, submerged reality of the tunnel itself. They are not merely pictures of a forgotten place but an invitation to contemplate the passage of time, the power of nature, and the fascinating stories that lie just beneath our feet. The Queensbury Tunnel, in its quiet, waterlogged state, continues to hold its secrets, inspiring a sense of wonder and curiosity about a remarkable chapter in our industrial heritage.

I took these pictures with a Polaroid is2132 camera on the 5th July 2015, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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A Journey Through Time: Mytholmroyd Railway Station

 On the last day of 2018, with my Nikon D3300 in hand, I took a stroll around Mytholmroyd, a village nestled in the heart of the Calder Valley. My destination was the railway station, a place that, like many others in this industrial landscape, holds a wealth of history and a quiet dignity. The photos I captured on that day tell a story of a place in transition—a past of industrial grandeur giving way to a new future.

The Old Station Building: A Glimpse into the Past

The most striking feature of the station is the original building. This Grade II listed building, with its rugged sandstone and classical lines, stands as a testament to the Victorian era of railway expansion. Opened in 1871 by the Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway, it was once the bustling hub of the community, complete with a booking hall, stationmaster's house, and waiting rooms. For many years, however, it sat derelict and boarded up, a sad sight for a building of such importance.

What the photos don't fully capture is the incredible story of its revival. After decades of neglect, a dedicated group of local volunteers, the Mytholmroyd Station Partnership, began a long-running project to bring it back to life. Their work, supported by grants from organizations like the Railway Heritage Trust and Northern, aims to transform the building into a creative community hub, breathing new purpose into this historic landmark.

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The Viaduct and the Modern Station

The station is uniquely situated atop a magnificent viaduct, a feat of 19th-century engineering. The viaduct itself was built by George Stephenson and dates back to 1840, making it even older than the station building it now supports. From the street below, the imposing stone arches give a sense of the scale and ambition of the railway age.

While the old building was awaiting its new lease on life, the modern station was already serving the community. With two platforms, it's a vital part of the Calder Valley Line, connecting the village to major cities like Leeds and Manchester. The station is known for having step-free access to its platforms, a rare and helpful feature for a station built on a viaduct. The contrast between the old, unused entrance and the bustling modern platforms tells the story of a place that, despite its challenges, remains a crucial link for the people of Mytholmroyd.

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The Summit Tunnel Eastern Portal

 Today, I found myself at a place where history and engineering meet nature's wild beauty: the eastern portal of the Summit Tunnel, nestled just outside of Walsden. It’s a spot that, at first glance, is simply a picturesque railway cutting framed by lush greenery and the dramatic Pennine hills. But looking closer, and listening to the low rumble of a passing train, you can feel the weight of its incredible history.

The series of photos I captured tells a small story of this location. From the first glimpse of the tunnel's mouth hidden amongst the trees to the powerful sight of a train emerging from its darkness, and even a peek at the intricate brickwork of the portal itself. The images show a train heading towards the tunnel, and then moments later, another view captures a different train heading away from it. This constant movement is a testament to the tunnel's enduring legacy as a vital artery of the UK's railway network.

The Summit Tunnel is not just any old railway passage; it's a colossal piece of Victorian engineering. When it was opened in 1841, it was the longest railway tunnel in the world, stretching an incredible 2,885 yards (about 2.6 kilometers) beneath the Pennine hills. It was a groundbreaking achievement of its time, a key part of the Manchester and Leeds Railway that connected these two great industrial cities.

The construction itself was a monumental effort. Digging through solid rock and battling difficult geological conditions, the engineers and navvies of the era faced immense challenges. The tunnel was built with a series of vertical shafts to aid in the excavation, and the sheer scale of the work is hard to comprehend today.

Looking at the photo of the tunnel's brickwork, you can see the craftsmanship that has stood the test of time. The arches and the meticulously laid bricks are a silent monument to the people who built it. The railway lines themselves, shining in the daylight, lead the eye into the deep, dark mouth of the tunnel, a gateway to a different world.

Even today, as I stood on the bridge overlooking the tracks, the sight of a train disappearing into the tunnel or bursting out from it feels special. It’s a connection to the past, a link between the bustling cities and the serene countryside. This tunnel has seen the age of steam, the transition to diesel, and now modern trains continue to use it, carrying passengers and goods through the heart of the Pennines.

It's a reminder that beneath our feet and under our landscapes lie incredible feats of engineering that have shaped our country. The Summit Tunnel is more than just a route; it’s a living piece of history, a testament to human ingenuity, and a stunning landmark hidden in plain sight.

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Bridging the Past and Present: Wiston Lane Railway Viaduct, Elland

 Nestled within the green embrace of Elland, West Yorkshire, lies a remarkable structure that quietly tells a tale of industrial ambition and enduring engineering: the Wiston Lane Railway Viaduct. As you approach it, whether on foot or by bicycle along the path that winds underneath, you can't help but be struck by its imposing yet elegant presence.

The viaduct, a stunning example of Victorian railway architecture, is constructed from local stone, its multiple arches gracefully spanning the landscape. Looking at its sturdy construction, it's easy to imagine the sheer effort and skill that went into its creation. While an exact construction date isn't immediately evident on site, the line was opened through this section in 1840.

This was a time when the "Iron Horse" was rapidly transforming the country, connecting towns and cities, and facilitating the movement of goods and people on an unprecedented scale. The Wiston Lane Viaduct was a crucial link in this network, forming part of the line that would have served the bustling industrial heartland of Yorkshire. You can almost hear the rumble of steam trains and the clang of goods wagons as they once traversed these very arches, carrying coal from the mines, textiles from the mills, and passengers on their journeys.

One of the most striking features of this location is the juxtaposition of old and new. As some of the images show, the railway viaduct stands proudly alongside the more modern Elland Bypass Bridge, a testament to the ongoing evolution of infrastructure. From certain angles, you can see both bridges in harmony, each serving its purpose in different eras of transportation. This layering of history truly makes Wiston Lane a fascinating spot for contemplation.

Today, while the steam trains may be a memory, the viaduct remains very much active. Modern trains, often a blur of white and blue as seen in one of the photographs, continue to cross its venerable structure, a continuous thread connecting past and present. The path underneath, a tranquil route for walkers and cyclists, offers a unique perspective on the viaduct's scale and impressive design. Lush greenery frames the arches, and the gentle murmur of the nearby water adds to the serene atmosphere.

Whether you're a history enthusiast, an admirer of engineering, or simply seeking a peaceful stroll amidst a touch of local heritage, a visit to the Wiston Lane Railway Viaduct is highly recommended. It's a place where you can tangible feel the echoes of a bygone era, and appreciate the enduring legacy of those who built the foundations of our modern world.

I took these pictures on the 18th August 2018 with a Nikon d3300, clicking any of the images should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

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Through a Glass, Darkly: Hebden Bridge Railway Station in Negative

 There's something hauntingly beautiful about old photographs, especially when they're presented in a way that flips our perception. Take this image of Hebden Bridge Railway Station, for example. Inverted, with its sepia tones replaced by an eerie, almost ghostly palette, it transports us to a different time, a different perspective.

The familiar elements are all there: the sturdy platform, the elegant Victorian canopies, the parallel lines of the railway track stretching into the distance. But the inversion transforms them.

Hebden Bridge, nestled in the heart of the Calder Valley, has always possessed a certain mystique. Its dramatic landscape, with steep hillsides and winding rivers, lends itself to a sense of otherworldliness. This image, in its altered state, amplifies that feeling. We're not just looking at a railway station; we're peering into a portal, a glimpse of a parallel reality where light and shadow dance in an unfamiliar way.

The station itself, a vital artery connecting Hebden Bridge to the wider world, has witnessed countless journeys, departures, and arrivals. It's a place of transition, of anticipation, of memory. In this inverted image, those memories seem to echo with a strange resonance. We can almost hear the ghostly whistle of a steam train, the distant murmur of passengers, the rhythmic clatter of wheels on the tracks.

This photograph, shared by Colin Green, is more than just a visual curiosity. It's a reminder of the power of perspective, the way a simple shift in light and colour can transform our understanding of a familiar scene. It invites us to look closer, to see beyond the surface, to appreciate the beauty and the mystery that lies hidden in the ordinary.

So, the next time you find yourself at Hebden Bridge Railway Station, take a moment to pause and imagine it in this inverted light. Consider the countless stories that have unfolded on its platforms, the lives that have passed through its doors. And perhaps, just perhaps, you'll catch a glimpse of that other reality, that ghostly echo of the past, captured so beautifully in this haunting photograph.

The pictures below were originally taken with a Samsung Galaxy tablet in November 2013, a little editing with photoshop creating the finished product below.

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Exploring the Past and Present of Lealholm Railway Station

An idyllic stop along the scenic Esk Valley Line, Lealholm Railway Station offers a glimpse into a bygone era of railway travel, all while remaining a crucial link for the local community. It's a place where history, nature, and modern transport intertwine.

A Glimpse into the Past

Lealholm Railway Station opened in 1865, a testament to the ambitious expansion of the railway network in the 19th century. Originally constructed by the North Eastern Railway Company, the station was a key part of the Esk Valley Line, which connected the industrial hub of Middlesbrough to the coastal resort of Whitby. This line served not only passengers but also the burgeoning freight industry of the region.

The architecture of the station building itself speaks volumes about its heritage. The former station master's house, a sturdy stone building with prominent chimneys, now serves as a private residence. This building once housed the booking hall, where travellers would purchase their tickets before boarding. While the station's purpose has evolved, its historical character remains intact.

The Station Today

Lealholm Station, now managed by Northern Trains, is a simpler affair. Passengers wait for their trains in a small, modern waiting area, a functional replacement for the grand booking hall of the past. The station has a fascinating duality: it maintains its historic layout while adapting to contemporary needs.

The station's layout features a passing loop line, a relic of its busier past. This line was once vital for allowing freight trains to pass one another, a feature that still exists today, though it's not as frequently used. You can see the dual tracks curving through the station, a reminder of its former importance. The second platform, once built for infrequent use, has now become largely overgrown, with wildflowers and tall grasses reclaiming the space. This natural reclamation adds to the station's rustic charm.

Connecting Communities

Despite its minimalist facilities, Lealholm is an essential stop for locals and tourists alike. The station provides a vital link for the community, with a reliable, albeit limited, service. On weekdays, the station is served by approximately five trains per day towards Whitby and six trains per day towards Middlesbrough. It's always a good idea to check the schedule, as Sunday services can vary.

Stepping off the train at Lealholm, you're immediately greeted by the peaceful, rural surroundings. The Esk Valley Line is renowned for its scenic journey, and Lealholm is no exception. Surrounded by lush greenery and rolling hills, the station feels like a true escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The combination of its rich history, its connection to the natural landscape, and its continued role as a community hub makes Lealholm Railway Station a truly special place.

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Glaisdale Railway Station, North Yorkshire

Glaisdale Railway Station is a hidden gem nestled in the heart of the North Yorkshire Moors, offering a glimpse into the region's rich railway heritage. This charming station, with its quaint architecture and scenic surroundings, provides a captivating experience for visitors and railway enthusiasts alike.

A Brief History

Glaisdale Station was opened on the 2nd October 1865 by the North Eastern Railway Company. It served as a vital stop for passengers and goods traveling through the picturesque North Yorkshire Moors. The station's unique location, surrounded by rolling hills and lush countryside, made it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike.

A Picturesque Setting

The station's beauty lies not only in its historic architecture but also in its idyllic setting. Nestled amidst the North Yorkshire Moors National Park, Glaisdale Station offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can enjoy the tranquility of the countryside, take a leisurely stroll through the nearby fields, or simply relax and soak up the peaceful atmosphere.

Exploring the Station

Glaisdale Station is a treasure trove for railway enthusiasts. The station buildings feature waiting rooms, toilets and a signal box closed in 1989, as well as one of the two passing loops remaining on the Esk Valley railway. The station is served by 6 trains per day towards Whitby, and another 6 per day towards Middlesborough.

A Gateway to Adventure

Glaisdale Station serves as a gateway to the North Yorkshire Moors. From here, visitors can embark on scenic train journeys, hike through the stunning countryside, or explore the charming villages and towns in the area. The North Yorkshire Moors Railway, which operates from Glaisdale Station, offers a nostalgic journey through the region's picturesque landscapes.

A Must-Visit Destination

Whether you're a railway enthusiast, a nature lover, or simply seeking a peaceful getaway, Glaisdale Railway Station is a must-visit destination. Its combination of historical charm, natural beauty, and scenic train journeys makes it a truly unforgettable experience. So, pack your bags and embark on a journey back in time to this hidden gem in the heart of North Yorkshire.

I took the pictures below with a Nikon d3300 on the 27th August 2022, clicking any of them should open a link in another window to my Colin Green Photography store on Zazzle.

The railway viaduct to the east of the station. Beggar's Bridge and the River Esk are just beyond the arch.

The disused signal box, closed in 1989

Inside the very clean and well kept waiting room.

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