Welcome to Carnforth Railway Station.
Originally opened in 1846, this stone-built station, in the north-west of Lancashire, went onto become one of the most famous stations of all time. It was here that the 1945 classic British film, Brief Encounter was made, starring Celia Johnson and Trevor Howard. Based on the play, Still Life by Noel Coward and directed by David Lean, the story of a doomed love affair between a housewife and a doctor, continues to charm one generation after another.However, by 1970, the platforms at Carnforth were closed, leaving it only as a branch line. During the last thirty years, the station has fallen into disrepair and fans of Brief Encounter, the railway and the age of steam trains are deeply saddened by its deterioration.
All is not lost. In November 1996, the Carnforth Station and Railway Trust Co Ltd was formed to raise funds for the restoration of this neglected station. They were also aided by a special committee called 'The Friends of Carnforth Station', who continue to publish a monthly newsletter, The Carnforth Chronicle to relate the progress made. At last, after four years of hard work, enough money was raised, with a significant contribution from Railtrack. Plans are already in place and the restoration is to commence in Spring 2001.*
The long-sought aim to restore the lost heart of an almost forgotten station has been fulfilled. It is about time we saw it again.
In 2000, Alison Evans, who was then a Post Graduate student at the University of Plymouth, approached the Friends of Carnforth Station to ask if she could produce a website about Carnforth Station , as one her modules towards an MA in Publishing.
This website is the website that she produced.
The original website was created in 2000., and apart from one or two factual corrections (different telephone numbers / contact addreses etc.) The website is as created.
Since then the Station rejuvenation has been completed, and the station is now open as a fully fuctional railway station, and a visitor center. For the latest information about the station, please visit
http://www.carnforth-station.co.uk
