Lynton & Barnstaple Railway
The Lynton & Barnstaple Railway is a 1 ft 11½ in (597 mm) narrow-gauge heritage railway on Exmoor, north Devon, a partial reopening of the original Lynton & Barnstaple Railway, which closed in 1935 and is widely regarded as one of the most lamented closures in British railway history. The current operation runs from Woody Bay across the Exmoor moorland, with progressive plans to extend in both directions towards the original termini at Lynton and Barnstaple.
The original line opened in 1898 between Barnstaple Town and Lynton, a 19-mile single-track narrow-gauge line crossing the wild moorland of Exmoor. It was remarkable for its scenic route, its mixed Manning Wardle and ALCO motive power, and its strong support from the local population. Closure in 1935 by the LMS / Southern Railway was deeply unpopular and prompted the famous wreath laid on the last train: "Perchance it is not dead but sleepeth".
Long after closure, the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway Trust was formed in 1979 with the long-term aim of reopening the line. After decades of trackbed acquisition and preservation, the first trains ran from Woody Bay (Killington Lane) to Wistlandpound in 2004, the dream of the trust founders being progressively realised.
History
The Lynton & Barnstaple Railway Trust was formed in 1979 with the very long-term aim of reopening the line. The Woody Bay station was acquired and progressively rebuilt, and the first preserved trains ran from Killington Lane to Woody Bay in 2004. Subsequent extensions and the rebuilding of stations have continued to build the operation. Long-term aspirations include the through reopening of the entire 19-mile route, but the Trust's philosophy is gradual organic development rather than rapid construction.
Original line history
The original line was promoted by Sir George Newnes (publisher and Liberal MP) and opened in 1898. It was operated independently until grouping in 1923, when it was absorbed by the Southern Railway. Despite efforts at modernisation, the line lost money throughout its existence; closure came in 1935, a closure deeply lamented locally and one of the inspirations for the early railway preservation movement.
Stations and infrastructure
Woody Bay is the headquarters, with extensively restored Edwardian station building. The line runs across the Exmoor moorland in spectacular scenery.
Route and stations
Map: © OpenStreetMap contributors
Special events and operations
Events include steam galas, walking days (combined train and walking experiences), 1940s weekends, and Santa Specials. The Trust's open days highlight the long-term project status of the operation.
Visitor information
Woody Bay is signposted from the A39 between Lynton and Blackmoor Gate. The nearest Network Rail station is Barnstaple (about 12 miles).