Woody Bay station listed as part of Railway 200

This morning it's been announced that 7 railway sites have been listed at Grade II by the Department for Culture, Media and Sport on the advice of Historic England, in recognition of their historic and architectural interest and to mark 200 years of the modern railway.

These listings celebrate the 200^th anniversary of the birth of modern passenger railway services with the opening of the Stockton & Darlington Railway on 27 September 1825; an event which ultimately transformed the world.

Our very own Woody Bay station is one of the 7, complementing the existing Gade II listing of the impressive Chelfham viaduct. The Woody Bay listing covers the station building, former stable block and the signal cabin.

Claudia Kenyatta CBE and Emma Squire CBE, incoming Chief Executive of Historic England (job share) said: “The development of England’s railway system was one of the greatest achievements of the Victorian era. These new listings highlight key milestones in its growth and demonstrate how the railway has shaped our local places today.

"Every newly listed station announced today is open to the public to visit, so the protection of these sites means that they will continue to be seen and enjoyed by visitors for generations to come.”

Heritage Minister Baroness Twycross said: “These seven sites are stunning examples of our railway heritage. They remind us how vital the railways have been for connecting people across the country, whether it’s for business or pleasure.”

“Listing all of these incredible sites is the perfect way to celebrate Railway 200 and shine a light on the role of railways in shaping our national story over the last two centuries. These listings will ensure they are protected and can be enjoyed for another two hundred years.”

The joint L&BR Trust and CIC board is delighted that the efforts of our volunteers, supporters and staff over the last few decades have been recognised with this important announcement. The listing of Woody Bay is testament to their foresight and dedication thus enabling the re-telling of the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway story as well those of the people and communities who depended upon the railway. We are also pleased that Historic England have acknowledged the role that narrow-gauge railways played in the development of the railways more widely across the UK.

Read more about all 7 sites listed by clicking here.