Lancashire Union Joint Line

Now a walking path, the Lancashire Union Joint Line was opened in 1869 in part to give rail access to the local collieries to ship coal. The Lancashire Union Joint Line was later incorporated into the London and North Western Railway until passenger services ended in 1948 and the line was closed finally in 1971.

Red Rock Station which operated for goods, passengers and livestock is now preserved as a well-kept, private residence beside the footpath and has a plaque above the door.

The trackbed itself - which originally accommodated double tracks with platforms either side - is situated between high embankments, now heavily wooded with much ivy and wildflowers in season. There are numerous remaining fragments of railway furniture found along the route and some gateposts can be seen to be fashioned from old railway sleepers.

There are many bridges of varied and interesting architecture, including an iron aqueduct supporting the Leeds and Liverpool Canal that is still navigable and in use today - although there are a few drips when passing below.

The car park (off the B5239) provided for visitors is on the site of the old goods sidings and warehouse.

Created: 3  April  2022  Edited: 29  November  2023