Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, Vintage carriage trains set to return.

Keighley & Worth Valley Railway Vintage Trains return in July. As restrictions ease the Keighley and Worth Valley railway has a full programme on offer over the summer.

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Keighley & Worth Valley Railway Vintage Trains

Starting on the 24th of July, Vintage train weekends will feature carriages from the Vintage Carriages Trust and the Lancashire and Yorkshire Carriages trust. These Lancashire & Yorkshire Railway carriages, have been beautifully restored and offer a unique Victorian experience

You can travel on a six wheeled carriage that dates from 1880. Because of extensive damage, the carriage cost £50,000 to restore.

Image from the LYR carriages trust

Railways around Keighley

The Lancashire and Yorkshire Railway was formed in 1847, from several smaller companies. Furthermore, the amalgamation included the Leeds and Bradford Extension Railway. This line became the first rail connection to Keighley, opening in 1847. However, this line was operated by the Midland Railway who built the Settle to Carlisle line in 1876

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Keighley station retains much of it’s original charm. Additionally, the station is still connected to the national network.

Get a Yorkshire style factory for your model railway

The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway’s class 25 from 1887.

Along with appropriate carriages, The Keighley and Worth Valley Railway owns a Lancashire and Yorkshire engine from 1887. Numbered 52044, this locomotive was one of the first to arrive on the preserved railway in the 1960s. It found fame in The 1970 Railway Children film, and has recently been put back in working order.

Image from the KWVR

Six wheeled coaches

In the mid Victorian period four and six wheeled carriages were common.

The carriages discussed here, were designed by Frederick Attock. Mr Attock was the carriage and wagon superintendent for the Lancashire and Yorkshire railway. The characteristic flush panelling and arched roof design were often seen well into the 20th century. The attractive tan and carmine lake livery, has been accurately reproduced. Additionally, the lettering was white outlined in gold.

Bogie coaches make an appearance

By 1900 bogie coaches were introduced. These were often wooden bodied and lit by gas, an explosive combination in an accident! If available no 1774 will be used for the vintage trains

Image from the LYR carriages trust

Check with the Keighley & Worth valley railway to see which carriages are running