Haworth steam railway

Some times you miss what is right under your nose. Ten minutes from my home is the Haworth steam railway. They still operate a daily steam train service and I thought I would go for a day out today.

I was not disappointed, First thing that hits you is the smell of burning coal, Quickly followed by the noise and smoke and of course the steam. The best description is probably that of a time capsule.

The staff are all dressed in traditional clothing and with the mix of old clocks and the original building fabric it truly is a blast from the past. Summer time usually sees thousands of Japanese tourists, Amongst others paying a yearly vigil.

Of course two minutes up the hill is the Bronte sisters museum and the village is pretty much unchanged from those days.

Looked like a shunter was pulling the engine out as we approached. I assume they move the locomotive with this until they have got steam up.

The railway was opened in 1867 and finally closed 1n 1962. It re-opened with the preservation of the line in 1968 and now serves as the headquarters of the railway. The former goods sheds were converted into service and repair sheds for the locomotives. The track is five miles long with a number of stops along the way. You can transfer to the normal rail network at Keighley where the steam service terminates.

The locomotive we rode was serial number 80002. She was one of a batch of ten which were ordered for the Scottish region and was built at the derby works. After various duties including being used as a static steam producing boiler she was finally rescued and moved to KWVR in 1969. The line services various communities along the Worth valley. Including Oxenhope,Haworth.Oakworth,Damems,Ingrow(West),Keighley.

I have lots of text to add to this hub but wanted to get the pictures uploaded and get the hub out there.