Description
Book SynopsisWidely known as England's most scenic line, the enduring Settle & Carlisle Railway was built by the Midland between 1869 and 1876, as part of its quest to forge its own, independent route to Scotland. It is, uniquely for a railway in the UK, a Conservation Area in its own right - viaducts, tunnels, bridges, stations, trackside structures and railway workers' cottages. By walking all or parts of the route from Settle to Carlisle, you get the chance to get up close to the railway's magnificent architecture - but also to see the lonely and lofty fells, and stunning scenery from the Dales through the Pennines to the limestone pavements of Westmorland and the green Eden Valley. In the company of this knowledgeable guide, you'll also discover centuries' worth of local history and traditions: Roman remains, medieval castles, and the Romany who still meet at the annual Appleby Horse Fair gathering.
Trade Review"An endearing love-letter to the Settle to Carlisle Railway. It is an enticing mix of reminiscence, history, characters and practical information that lift it far above the level of a conventional guide book. It is evocative and affecting, with a rich sense of time and place. Written with both style and clarity, it is a must for anyone who wants to walk the route or ride the train." Peter Gillman (author & Chairman of the Outdoor Writers & Photographers Guild)
Table of ContentsIntroduction; Mission Accomplished: Restoration, Bad Navigation and All that Jazz; From Settle to Ribblehead: The Line’s Lofty Bit and a Curious Tale of Slavery; From Ribblehead to Garsdale: Of Castles, Kings, Ladies and a Vampire in Darkest Peru; From Garsdale to Kirkby Stephen: Red Kites, Red Squirrels and Tea and Biscuits; From Kirkby Stephen to Appleby: Return of the Pied Piper; From Appleby to Langwathby: Flightless Birds, Geese and Mushrooms; From Langwathby to Armathwaite: Paradise Left Behind; From Armathwaite to Carlisle: Postscript: Standing it All on its Head; Notes; Bibliography; Acknowledgements
