Edge Hill is quite an important junction, but there is much more to the station than just that.
A station has been at Edge hill since 1930, and that station was the site of the first passenger station in the world. It had a stationary steam engine which would winch engines up from Wapping Dock.
The Edge hill station which stands here today opened in 1836, a little further to the North West than that initial station. A selection of tunnels moves away from the station to the main Liverpool lime street station. Up until the 1870’s, these trains were still moved to and from Liverpool Street by means of two brakesman going down into Lime Street, and by a rope winding engine on the uphill section.
Extensive sidings have been in use throughout the stations life, and many are still in use today.
Edge Hill’s design is that of two island platforms, both of which still have their original 1836 buildings. They are in excellent condition, and as always this is very nice to see. In fact, they are the oldest station buildings still in use and are grade 2 listed.
The two platforms are linked by a subway, and the buildings on platforms 3 and four are being used by an art studio. Unfortunately there is no step free access to these platforms.
At time of writing, stopping services to all areas are provided by class 150, 156, and 319 and 323’s on most routes, but the newer class 195 and 331’s can also be seen. Also Avanti west coast Pendolinos and Class 802 Pennine Expresses often pass through.
Edge hill has such a rich history, and a lot of it is on show. It still has important junctions and sidings, which keep it alive. Although probably not as busy as it was fifty or so years ago, the interchanges it provides for the traveller are still important. It’s a shame not all the platforms are fully accessible, but this may come in time. Obviously for the enthusiast, a vast variety of traction can be seen, and the quiet nature of the station lends itself to videography well.
Below is a video which I produced to showcase Edge Hill, lots of traffic passes in this one!
Many thanks for reading and remember :
“If you can, get out there, get on the railway, and see where it take you” (c)
Rainham Rail Enthusiast 