And when were the periods of “beautiful rail stations” of the UK were designed by a combination of railway companies and individual architects, working during the Victorian and Edwardian eras. Architects were often employed by railway companies to design stations and depots, and the companies themselves would often choose a style that reflected their identity. This might not be a topic that ever sprung to mind for you, but if we didn’t have rail in Britain, we likely wouldn’t have had rail at all for many decades. Here’s an That’s an excellent summary of why the UK’s historic rail stations are so architecturally significant and aesthetically pleasing. Here are some notable examples.
Berwyn Station, Corfe Castle Railway Station, and Berwyn Station. Other notable historic stations include St Pancras International in London, Huddersfield Station, and York station. Here’s a closer look at some of these and other examples: Notable Historic Stations: Berwyn Station, Denbighshire: This station, serving the village of Berwyn, is a charming example of a well-preserved rural station. Corfe Castle Railway Station, Dorset: Situated in the heart of the picturesque village of Corfe Castle, this station offers a glimpse into the past. Wemyss Bay Station, Inverclyde: Located on the Clyde Coast, this station is a grand example of Victorian architecture. Huddersfield Station, West Yorkshire: This station features a striking Victorian facade and a bustling atmosphere. They’re everywhere.
The Victorian and Edwardian eras were a heyday for railway expansion and architectural grandeur. Railways were seen as symbols of national progress and industrial might, and their stations were often built to reflect that pride and ambition. While individual architects (like those hired by railway companies) brought specific artistic visions, the overarching style and scale were often driven by the railway companies’ desire to convey their prestige, power, and brand identity.
Each company wanted its stations to be memorable and distinctive. Closer to home, as it were, London in the North, with Hove Station, and Box hill an the south, Westhumble, you have two shining examples of how and why rail is the way to go. Design personality abounds!
These factors led to an incredible variety of station architecture across the UK, from the intricate ironwork of London’s major termini to the charming, often bespoke, designs of smaller rural stations. They are truly an integral part of the UK’s heritage and a fascinating subject for anyone interested in architecture, history, or industrial design. The image above is the station of Box Hill and Westhumble. Curious for more?
Box Hill & Westhumble is a railway station in the village of Westhumble in Surrey, England, approximately 2 miles north of Dorking town centre. Box Hill is located approximately 1⁄2 mile to the east. It is 21 miles 14 down the line from London Waterloo. It’s like a throw-back in time. Catch it while you can.
The Hove station, just outside of Brighton, UK, is a gorgeous example of British rail design. Take the train there!
Our travel pals, OMIO, have tickets all over the UK, even to Hove and Westhumble. Click here for London Waterloo to Box Hill & Westhumble trips. Average journey summary is about Time. 0hr 47 minutes. Distance. 19 miles – 31km. Weekday First Train. 05:24. Weekday. Click here to book.