Darsham was opened in 1859 by the East Suffolk Railway Company, which was soon taken over by the Great Eastern Railway.
It boasted several sidings in its time, and these remained until 1966 when they were closed due to lack of traffic. It was also at this time that the station became unmanned, like most adopting the ‘Pay-Train’ system.
Luckily however the station building still stands today. It is not however in use as a booking office, but is used by the Darsham Country centre, a subsidiary of the Woodcraft folk. It is let out to groups, and has accommodation available. It is however great to see the building still being used, and hopefully this will continue for many years to come.
Next to this is the only remaining level crossing on the A12 between London and Great Yarmouth.
Of interest on platform one is what seems to be either an original or at least early 20th century shelter. It is quite a structure, and as the main station building great to see it still intact, and not demolished for a more modern design.
The station has help points, new electric information displays and an electronic ticketing machine. There are no booking office or toilet facilities.
A view here gives us a look at the line as it goes towards Lowestoft.
And here is the view of the line as it curves away in the direction of Ipswich.
Passenger entry and exit figures for 2019 / 2020 were 61, 534 .
Darsham, although not that well used, still retains a lot of the charm of a rural station. Both the main station building and the shelter on platform one are in very good condition, and I do hope this remains the case as it gives this station a lot of character. The sight lines are excellent for the enthusiast, however the noise from the A12 does impair sound for video recording, but if its photography you are after it’s a great setting.
Rainham Rail Enthusiast 