Hellifield To Carlisle Heritage Timetable Services

[RichmondCommu]

Hi everyone,

I only ever use the S & C in the summer and even then only between Leeds and the mountain stations ie Horton, Ribblehead and Dent. The trains are always well loaded and there have been times when I've had to stand between Horton and Settle (not that I'm complaining).

However I suspect that the line is rather more quiet in winter and so this is my idea to boost patronage between November and April. Essentially my idea is to run an all stops service; steam in one direction and diesel on the way back. Starting from Hellifield because I'm not sure that there is enough capacity at Skipton.

I reckon the train should run once a month on a Saturday using either new build steam or locomotives which have recently been rebuilt. In other words locomotives which can stick to a fairly demanding timetable.

And on the way back maybe a class 37 or class 40. A Peak would also be very welcome.

Thanks for reading this.

 

[JonathanH]

Steam services over this route are provided at a commercial charge year round (albeit not stopping at all stations). I suspect that the year round 158 worked service does not cover its costs.

https://www.railwaytouring.net/uk-day-trips/the-winter-cumbrian-mountain-express

https://westcoastrailways.co.uk/thedalesman/dalesman-steam-experience.cfm

That suggests there is no need to create an additional service using heritage traction that would not pay its way. If there was, perhaps West Coast Railways would apply for open operator access given they already have the stock and traction available.

All discussed earlier this year.
https://www.railforums.co.uk/threads/permanent-steam-on-the-settle-carlisle.181084/