Nostalgia Hit: The Woodhead Tunnel
The Rise and Rise, with a Swift Fall
The Woodhead Line and the Woodhead Tunnel played a crucial role in the transportation of coal from South Yorkshire to power stations in the Manchester area. However, with changing energy sources and economic shifts, the line’s importance diminished. In 1981, the Woodhead Line was closed, leading to the eventual abandonment of the tunnel (and use for electrical cables).
Our new article tracks the rise of these once-steam-filled tunnels to their demise in the early 80’s, to today’s cycle trail - and we’ve even footage of trains using the tunnels.
If you love a steam train, or a unique diesel loco this one is for you!