Go to
 South Tynedale Preservation Society Web-site

The BARBER  Project

For details about this iconic locomotive and our appeal to return it to its former glory.

CLICK HERE

History of the South Tynedale Railway


The Haltwhistle to Alston branch line, was opened by the Newcastle and Carlisle Railway Company in 1852, and was closed by British Rail on 1st May 1976. The South Tynedale Railway Preservation Society was formed in April 1973 and, although unable to save the original standard gauge line, it succeeded in constructing and opening a narrow gauge line along part of the old trackbed, and passenger trains have operated along it from 30th July 1983 bringing trains back to Alston, helped by grants from various sources and by the invaluable support of the Society membership.

For many years the railway’s web-site has included articles looking not only at our own history, but the wider history of the line from its early years including details relating to the South Tyne Valley. Whilst recognising that they are a valuable resource they do take up a notable amount of memory, so a decision has been made to delete them from this site. However, rather than deprive people of the information they have been moved to our sister site - that of the South Tynedale Preservation Society, and following the link below will navigate you to the index for the historical items. When you have read enough, just click the icon next to the navigation bar on each page to return to this site.