Marcus' Model Railway Journey

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16th March, 2026

Northern predicts record number of passengers travelling on iconic line in 2026​

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Passenger numbers on the scenic Settle to Carlisle Line are expected to top one million this year as the route celebrates its 150th anniversary, an anniversary which Michael Portillo has supported.

A programme of events is planned to mark the 150-year milestone, organised by the Settle-Carlisle Railway Development Company.

Celebrations will include a chartered steam train running between Carlisle and York on 25 May.

Northern also plans to release thousands of £1.50 promotional tickets for travel on the route.

Operator Northern recorded 995,000 journeys on the line between Leeds and Carlisle in 2025, with August being the busiest month, with around 96,000 trips.

The 72-mile line is a major tourist attraction, offering views of the Pennines, the Yorkshire Dales, and the Eden Valley, and also features the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct.
 
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A Northern Service between Carlisle and Settle – Ribblehead Viaduct


Completed in 1875 after a huge engineering project involving around 6,000 workers, the line opened to passengers on 1 May 1876.

It was saved from closure in the 1980s after a major public campaign.

The line was also used as a recent diversionary route during upgrades.


“It’s easy to see why this line is so popular and we’re confident we will see more than 1 million journeys this year.

“Customers can enjoy miles of breathtaking scenery, which changes throughout the year, and there are plenty of opportunities to get off and explore.

“We’re delighted to see that it’s been rightly recognised as one of the most scenic trips in Europe and we’re looking forward to the celebrations marking the 150th anniversary.”

Alex Hornby, Northern’s Commercial and Customer Director.


“The Settle-Carlisle line is unique, connecting communities from Yorkshire through to Cumbria, and also providing a sustainable and beautiful way for visitors to explore the Yorkshire Dales, Westmorland Dales and Lake District.

“In our special anniversary year, we are working closely with communities along the line to provide a host of events for visitors and locals to enjoy, and all accessible via our award-winning line.”

Pete Myers, chair of the Settle Carlisle Railway Development Company.
 
16th March, 2026

Banbury Depot to be celebrated with a special passenger service​

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Twilight drone shot of new sidings at Banbury depot


Banbury Depot is a major facility operated by Chiltern Railways and received a £9.4 million upgrade in early 2023 to expand its maintenance capabilities.

Chiltern Railways and the Branch Line Society have partnered up for a special service.

On Sunday, 3rd May 2026, a special visit to Banbury Depot on a service titled ‘The Banbury Mountain Climber’ is set to depart from Banbury railway station shortly after 11:00 am.

Participants will travel into the depot on either a Class 165 or Class 168, with plans to cover all available roads before returning to the station at around 1:00 pm.

The event will raise money for a Chiltern Railways team taking part in the Three Peaks by Rail Challenge, with all proceeds supporting Railway Children.

A souvenir track map will be included for attendees.
 
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Drone shot of the entire Banbury train depot from the air


The project to upgrade the depot has delivered four additional sidings and around 950 metres of new track, enhancing the site’s role in train maintenance, stabling and cleaning.

The depot also supports the rollout of new Mark 5 trains on the London to West Midlands route and includes improved accommodation for staff working there.
 
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