Bishop Auckland

This is the present terminus of the ‘Heritage Line’ passenger train service from Darlington.

First opened in 1843, when the line was extended from South Church to Crook, Bishop Auckland was to develop into an important interchange point. It was like the hub of a wheel with lines radiating to all parts of the railway network including Darlington, Crook & Weardale, Durham, Spennymoor and Barnard Castle. It was unusual in shape being triangular, so it was no problem if a locomotive needed turning.
It was occasionally passed through by mainline express traffic diverting to avoid engineering works between Darlington and Durham.
In the immediate post-war years it was possible to catch a Bishop Auckland to Blackpool summer special via Barnard Castle and Stainmore summit.

A substantial goods yard opened in the 1870’s existed towards the centre of the town. Scammel delivery trucks could often be seen scurrying around the busy streets with deliveries.

Line closures in the 1960’s left the station a shadow of its former self. Eventually the old station buildings were to be demolished and replaced in the 1980’s with a modern style chalet building. This building today also provides accommodation for a snack bar, drivers test centre and security firm.

A signal adjacent to the platform marks the point where the Weardale Railway commences.