Attractive yellow stone frontage of historic Workington Station
The scenic coastal line between Carlisle & Barrow-in-Furness is a popular choice for heritage locomotive excursions. There are dramatic views of the Irish Sea Coast & Western Lake District Fells.
The starting point is usually London Euston or a northern city. Diesel electric power is often used as far as Carnforth. Here there's the opportunity to add a preserved steam locomotive for the remainder of the journey to Carlisle.
There is a choice of route for the onward journey, either west coast mainline via Shap and Settle to Carlisle via Ribblehead Viaduct or via the Cumbrian Coast.
At Carlisle, passengers have time for sightseeing while the locomotive is turned & made ready for the return journey. Passage along the coastal route can be either north- or southbound.
Below is a selection of photos taken in the Workington, Whitehaven & Maryport areas.
A page dedicated to a visit of the 'FLYING SCOTSMAN' can be found here :
LMS Black 5 "THE SHERWOOD FORESTER" at Workington 20th May 2023
South of Workington Station on the return leg of a Leeds-Carlisle tour.
The preserved LMS loco No. 45231 headed a tour operated by 'Saphos Trains'.
The 4-6-0 loco was built in Newcastle-upon-Tyne in 1936. It provided long service in the London Midland region until it was preserved in Carnforth.
It's name was shortened from '3rd (Volunteer) Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment' in 1997.
Recording equipment was observed attached to the smokebox and boiler side, said to be in connection with a new 'Ellis Clark Trains' 'O' Gauge Black Five Model.
LMS Royal Scot Class "ROYAL SCOT", 46100 at Whitehaven, 11th Feb 2023
The first steam excursion of the year pulls in to Whitehaven on the return leg of the Rugby to Carlisle trip.
The 'Saphos Trains' excursion attracted many onlookers on its route south along the Cumbrian Coast. All crew were on lookout duty in the cab as the loco made its careful approach. It's a brief stop at Whitehaven to collect the Single Line Token. Some youngsters were disappointed there was no time for a footplate experience.
LMS 'Black 5' 45212 at Workington, 10th Nov 2022
A 'Northern Belle' excursion returning to Coventry from Carlisle.
The 4-6-0 'Black 5' was built in 1935. It is 1 of only 18 remaining out of a total of 842. It is owned by 'Keighley & Worth Valley Railway' who present a neat history of the loco on their 'Website'. The tour was originally planned to take the Settle line on its return leg but a recent derailment at Carlise had prevented this. The loco was seen powering out of Workington heading south on the coastal route as far as Carnforth.
SR West Country Class "BRAUNTON" 34046 at Workington, 9th Apr 2022
South of Workington Station on the return leg of 'The Lakelander'.
The excursion was organised by 'Saphos Trains' from Rugby to Carlisle.
More info on the loco can be found on the item below dated 10th July 2021.
Steam Excursions, Feb-Mar 2022
As the year got underway a welcome return of steam powered excursions through the popular Cumbrian routes.
LMS Jubilee Class "LEANDER", 45690, at Maryport, 12th Mar 2022
Heading south through Maryport Station at a leisurely pace on the Euston to Carlisle Cumbrian Coast Express. For details of the loco's history see item below dated 30th Sept 2017.
SR Bullied Battle of Britain Class "TANGMERE", 34067, at Appleby 24th Feb
Seen passing through Appleby at speed on the return leg of the 'Northern Belle' excursion from Leeds to Carlisle.
LMS Jubilee Class "SIERRA LEONE", 45627 at Appleby, 4th Sep 2021
Pulling into Appleby on the return leg of the Cumbrian Mountain Express from Euston.
SIERRA LEONE is a reincarnation of GALATEA in new livery. The original SIERRA LEONE was built in 1934 as no.5627 and given the name of the West African country 2yrs later. It was withdrawn from service in 1956 and subsequently scrapped.
West Coast Railways have temporarily renumbered & renamed their loco 45627 SIERRA LEONE. This was a sponsorship by the International Railway Heritage Company and the Friends of the Sierra Leone National Railway Museum in order to raise the profile of the unique African museum.
A large crowd had gathered to watch the loco arrive for its 10min halt to take on water
SR West Country Class "BRAUNTON" 34046 at Workington, 21st Aug 2021
Seen heading south at Bessemer Way Bridge.
The 4-6-2 West Country Pacific was returning to Crewe at the head of a Shrewsbury to Carlisle excursion.
The loco is one of a fleet used by 'Saphos Trains' on the West Cumbrian Coastal Route.
A mechanical fault delayed the train further down the line at Sellafield, however, after a 40min repair the loco resumed its journey. Class 47, D1935 DAVID HOSKING MA, was bringing up the rear if required.
LMS Royal Scot Class "ROYAL SCOT", 46100 at Appleby, 4th Aug 2021
Seen during a brief stop at Appleby to take on water.
The 'Saphos Trains' excursion was returning to Crewe from Carlisle via Ribblehead Viaduct. The 15min halt provided a good opportunity for photographs. Refilling from the water tower and shovelling coal on the tender provided scenes from yesteryear.
The 4-6-0 loco was built at Derby Works in 1930. In 1933 it was shipped across the Atlantic to tour Canada & the US. The loco bears a plate to commemorate the 11,000 miles covered on North American railroads
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The station at Appleby is popular with serious photographers to capture the action.
The gallery covers the 15mins from arrival through to departure south.
"THE LAKELANDER" Commemorative Steam Loco Tour, 10th Jul 2021
To mark 175years of Railways in Cumbria, 'Saphos Trains' ran a rail tour from Rugby to Carlisle. It was steam hauled from Crewe by preserved West Country Class locomotive 'BRAUNTON', 34046.
The outward route included the dramatic climb of Shap, returning via the scenic West Cumbrian Coastal route.
The train was photographed at speed heading north at Catterlan, north of Penrith.
After a 2hr break at Carlisle for sightseeing, the return leg took the train along the Cumbrian coast where it was photographed at Whitehaven.
The 4-6-2 West Country Pacific was making its first visit to Whitehaven.
The '175 Years of Cumbrian Railways' headboard was prominent as the train pulled into the station on schedule,
There was a brief halt to allow time for the crew to gain permission to enter the single tracked Bransty Tunnel, Meanwhile, the small crowd of enthusiasts took photos of the immaculately preserved loco. Just 4mins later, the train continued its journey south through the tunnel..
The loco had had a relatively short working life. It was built in 1946 at Brighton Works to a lightweight, 86ton design, capable of working the smaller railways of Devon & Cornwall, as well as main-line expresses. The West Country Class featured streamline casing and a unique Bulleid design valve gear. In 1959 BRAUNTON was rebuilt to a more standard design, but only remained in service for 6yrs before being withdrawn and sent for scrap to Woodham Bros yard in Barry; here it languished for more than 20yrs.
ln 1988 the loco was moved to Brighton for restoration, but this was aborted as so many parts had been removed while at Barry. Eventually, in 1996 West Somerset Railway Association came to the rescue when they purchased the loco and carried out the extensive restoration needed. It re-entered service for West Somerset Railway in 2008. After subsequent trials it returned to mainline service in 2013. It is now restricted to 75mph but is capable of speeds in excess of 100mph. Based in Crewe, having recently been recertified, it is in the pool of locos used by 'Saphos Trains' on their 2021 programme.
"SCOTS GUARDSMAN" 46115 at Workington 26th Sep 2020
Seen heading south at Bessemer Way, Workington on the return leg of a 'Railway Touring Company' excursion from London Euston to Carlisle.
LMS Royal Scot Class "ROYAL SCOT", 46100 at Workington, 15th Aug 2020
Heading south out of Workington Station.
'Saphos Trains' were at the forefront of reintroducing steam tours once Covid-19 restrictions were eased. Their first excursion on the Cumbrian Coast was from Wolverhampton to Carlisle with ROYAL SCOT in charge from Crewe. The company was keen to point out the steps they had taken to modify passenger seating plans etc to ensure a safe experience.
The gallery shows the return leg after passengers had spent 2hrs exploring Carlisle.
Class 47, D1935 DAVID HOSKING, provided power at the rear if needed.
"BRITANNIA" at Whitehaven, 14th Aug 2019
About to enter Brantsy tunnel after a brief stop at Whitehaven.
The BR Standard Class 7 was on the return leg of 'The Lakelander' from Crewe to Carlisle organised by 'Saphos Trains'. It was the first visit of BRITANNIA to the Cumbria Coast Line.
The train arrived at Whitehaven exactly on schedule. During the four minute halt a crewman obtained a token from the cupboard on the platform to allow entry to the single track tunnel.
The loco was built in 1951 and withdrawn after only 15yrs service. She then had several moves during preservation until being restored to main line operation in 2011. Problems with excessive vibration were reported by crews in 2015. After major work to the frame, axleboxes & wheelsets carried out by 'London & North Western Railway Heritage' at Crewe in 2018 she is now back on main line duties in immaculate condition.
"THREE PEAKS CHALLENGE BY RAIL" at Whitehaven, 14th Jun 2019
Two Class 37 diesel-electric locomotives haul participants between Ravenglass and Fort William on day 2 of the challenge to climb Snowden, Scafell Pike & Ben Nevis. The train was photographed during the brief halt at Whitehaven to surrender the single line token on the overnight journey north.
At the head of the train were Class 37's 37419 'Carl Haviland 1954 - 2012' and 37402 'Stephen Middlemore 23.12.1954 - 8.6.2013'. Both were built more than 50yrs ago by English Electric at Newton-le-Willows and are now in Direct Rail Services' pool of locos.
Below, the driver of 37419 is seen at the token machine. Three minutes later the train pulls away.
"THE SHERWOOD FORESTER" at Whitehaven, 18th May 2019
Approaching Whitehaven on the return leg of a Crewe-Carlisle excursion.
The preserved LMS Black 5 Class loco was making a rare visit to the Cumbrian Coast Line on a tour operated by 'Saphos Trains'. The fully booked excursion offered levels of service up to Pullman Class.
The 4-6-0 loco was built in Newcastle-upon-Tyne in 1936. It provided a long service in the London Midland region until it was preserved in Carnforth.
It's name was shortened from '3rd (Volunteer) Battalion The Worcestershire and Sherwood Foresters Regiment' in 1997.
The train pulled into Whitehaven a few minutes late. A crewman hurried along the platform to phone the signal box to gain permission to enter the single track section through Brantsy tunnel. The train was soon on its way south after the brief 5min halt.
LMS Jubilee Class "GALATEA", 45699 at Whitehaven, 29th Sep 2018
The heritage loco made a brief stop at Whitehaven to gain clearance to enter the single-tracked Brantsy Tunnel.
This was the final steam-hauled Cumbrian Coast excursion of the 2018 season.
The immaculately preserved loco arrived a few minutes early giving the crew ample time to phone ahead to the signal box. One lucky youngster took the opportunity to climb on board the footplate. GALATEA was in charge from Carlisle to Carnforth. Diesel electric would take over on the main line back to London Euston.
"Class 50's" hauling "The Cumbrian Hoovers" at Whitehaven, 14th Apr 2018
A pair of Class 50's pull into Whitehaven on the return leg of a Birmingham to Carlisle excursion celebrating 50years of the Class.
A rare visit to the West Cumbrian line of two Class 50 diesel locomotives, 50007 'Hercules' & 50049 'Defiance' operated by the 'Class 50 Alliance'. The 13-coach 'Cumbrian Hoover' excursion organised by 'Pathfinder Tours' was fully subscribed. The locomotives were built in 1968 for use on the West Coast main line north of Crewe. Equipped with powerful 'English Electric' power units they were nicknamed 'Hoovers' by enthusiasts. They worked this line until electrification in 1974 when they were transferred to the Western Region.
A two minute halt was sufficient time for the crew to phone for permission to proceed through the single-tracked Brantsy-Corkickle tunnel.
LMS Jubilee Class "LEANDER" at Whitehaven, 24th Mar 2018
LEANDER makes a brief halt at Whitehaven Station on the return leg of the Cumbrian Coast Express from London Euston to Carlisle. It's the first steam excursion of the year on the coastal route. Passengers couldn't have chosen a better day for clear coastal & inland panoramas.
A crewman phones ahead to obtain permission to proceed through the single-tracked Brantsy-Corkickle tunnel. Meanwhile youngsters & parents get a close-up view of the restored loco. LEANDER provides the power on the circular route from its base in Carnforth.
The loco last visited in September 2017 (see item below) and remains a popular attraction for enthusiasts young & old.
LMS Jubilee Class "LEANDER" at Whitehaven, 30th Sep 2017
The loco is seen at Whitehaven Station on the return leg of the Cumbrian Coast Express from London Euston to Carlisle.
There's a brief halt while the crew obtain permission to enter the single-tracked Corcickle tunnel. The 3min halt is popular with enthusiasts to take their close-up photos. LEANDER continued in charge as far as Carnforth where a diesel-electric was swapped for the onward journey to Euston.
The wreath on the smokebox door is in respect of the recent death of a colleague from East Lancs Railway.
The loco which was built in Crewe in 1936 was withdrawn from service in 1964.
Like many others it was moved to Woodham Bros scrapyard in Barry from where it was rescued in 1972 for restoration.
It was a popular attraction at many steam galas until 2012 when it was withdrawn for a major overhaul. It is now back working regularly on the west coast mainline.
"SCOTS GUARDSMAN" 46115 at Maryport, 25th Mar 2017
The Carnforth based 'LMS Royal Scot Class' loco is a regular sight on the West Cumbrian Coast line. Here seen hauling a Euston-Carlisle excursion southbound at Maryport Station.
Whilst repairs to the Settle to Carlisle route are ongoing, the coastal route has been used in conjunction with the mainline over Shap for an interesting alternative.
LMS Jubilee Class "GALATEA" 45699 at Workington, 4th Mar 2017
'The Winter Cumbrian Coast Express' heading south at Bessemer Way Bridge. 'GALATEA' was a late replacement for 'SCOTS GUARDSMAN' which was declared unfit. The London to Carlisle tour is steam-powered between Carnforth & Carlisle in both directions. There's an excellent video of 'GALATEA' powering up Shap Fell earlier the same day.
LMS Royal Scot Class, "SCOTS GUARDSMAN" 46115, at Flimby, 1st Oct 2016
The' Cathedrals Express' heading south between Maryport & Workington. It was hoped there would be one more steam excursion for the Cumbrian Coast line before the end of 2016 but it was rerouted via Shap at the last minute.
LMS Royal Scot Class, "SCOTS GUARDSMAN" 46115, at Whitehaven, 20th Aug 2016
The 'Cumbrian Mountain Express' halts at Whitehaven while permission is gained to enter Bransty tunnel on its journey south from Carlisle to Carnforth . It's an ideal opportunity for enthusiasts both young & old to get up close to a live steam locomotive.
LMS Jubilee Class, "GALATEA", 45699 at Workington, 29th Apr 2016
Northbound on the Cumbrian section of 'The Great Britain V11' tour passing Shore Rd, Workington. Galatea was a replacement for the planned allocation of the Scots Guardsman.
LMS Royal Scot Class "ROYAL SCOT", 46100 at Maryport, 16th Apr 2016
The 'Scot Commemorative' tour passing under Grasslot Bridge en route from Crewe to Carlisle.
LMS Royal Scot Class "ROYAL SCOT", 46100 at Workington, 9th Apr 2016
Powering away from Workington on the southbound 'Cumbrian Coast Express'.
LMS Jubilee Class, "GALATEA", 45699 at Maryport, 17th Feb 2016
Heading south on the 'Pendle Dalesman' at Glasson Bridge. Lighting conditions were ideal for some dramatic shots.
LMS Jubilee Class, "GALATEA", 45699 at Workington, 16th Sep 2015
Hugging the coastline between Whitehaven & Workington as it heads north on the 'Cathedrals Express' at Shore Rd, Harrington,
LMS Jubilee Class, "GALATEA", 45699 at Workington 30th May 2015
Passing Derwent Park, the home of Workington Town Rugby League, with the southbound 'Cumbrian Coast Express'. Galatea looks in immaculate condition in the Spring afternoon sunshine.
Built in Crewe in 1936, it saw service from several depots in the midlands, the final allocation being to Shrewsbury. In 1953 it survived being derailed whilst hauling a passenger train near Tamworth, Staffordshire. Despite the locomotive ending up on its side, only two people were reported injured and the locomotive was hardly damaged.
Photo by Tom Curtis, 1974
It was withdrawn from service in 1964 & moved to Barry Scrapyard.
Photos show it to be in a sorry state while in storage at Barry. In addition to general deterioration & suffering the removal of various fittings, the centre driving wheels had been 'gas axed' & it was considered unrestorable by many.
It was initially rescued by 'Severn Valley Railway' in 1980 who intended to use it for spares. However, it was sold to the 'West Coast Railway Company' in 2002 where it received a complete rebuild. It was first seen back in service in 2013 & has been active on excursions ever since.
LMS Royal Scot Class, "SCOTS GUARDSMAN" 46115 at Workington, 14th Mar 2015
The 'Cumbrian Coast Express' southbound at Shore Road, Harrington, south of Workington. From here the industrial landscape is exchanged for more interesting views of the Cumbrian coastline and western Lakeland fells.
LMS Stanier Class 8F, 48151 at Workington, 14th Jun 2014
Heading south through Workington on The Railway Touring Company's "Cumbrian Coast Express". On this return leg to Carnforth, the 8F will be replaced by diesel/electric for the onward journey to Euston. The outward journey north over Shap was only the second time in 10 years the locomotive had worked the summit en route to Carlisle.
Built in Crewe in 1942, the heavy freight loco was allocated to depots in Scotland & the north of England before being withdrawn from service in 1968. She then spent 7 years in the scrapyard of 'Woodham Bros', Barry before being bought for preservation. After changes of ownership she is now operated by 'West Coast Railways' from their base in Carnforth.
Woodham's won the private scrapyard tender to receive condemned locomotives which had begun to clog up BR's works & sidings during the 1950's Railways Modernisation Plan.
By a stroke of luck Woodham's were so busy with their regular work cutting up obsolete freight wagons the locomotives were put to the back of the queue. In addition, the yard wasn't familiar with cutting up locomotives, to the extent that Dai Woodham spent time at Swindon Works learning the techniques.
With almost 300 locomotives stored at the Barry yard, the rescue by preservation societies began. Purchases were made at prices equivalent to the scrap value, & Woodham's generously allowed the locos to remain in the yard while the preservationists worked on their acquisitions.
LMS Royal Scot Class, "SCOTS GUARDSMAN" 46115 at Maryport, 29th Apr 2014
Northbound on the Cumbrian section of 'The Great Britain V11' tour approaching Maryport at Glasson Bridge.
'The Great Britain V11' tour is an exclusively steam-hauled 9day tour organised by 'The Railway Touring Co' which features locomotives from all regions of the network.
Scots Guardsman is seen on Day 4 of the tour, operating on the Cumbrian leg of the Grange-over-Sands to Edinburgh journey.
LMS Royal Scot Class, "SCOTS GUARDSMAN" 46115 at Harrington, 12th Apr 2014
Heading the 'Cumbrian Coast Express' southbound at Quay St Bridge, Harrington, south of Workington.
The locomotive was one of 71 Royal Scots built, each bearing the name of a military regiment. Famously it starred in the 1936 film 'Night Mail'. The historic engine is one of only two preserved, the other being the 'Royal Scot'.
It was rebuilt in 1947 with a new tapered type 2A boiler, and painted in LMS 1946-style black livery. It was then renumbered 46115 and was the first of the rebuilt engines to receive smoke deflectors, and the only one to run with them as an LMS engine.
It was the last of its class to be withdrawn in January 1966.
The locomotive was purchased by the West Coast Railway Company, & by 2008 was restored to main-line running standard appearing on excursions in its new BR Brunswick Green livery from its Carnforth base.