Horton-in-Ribblesdale Station Transformed With New Lifts and Bridge

Passengers using Horton-in-Ribblesdale railway station can now access both platforms step-free following the completion of a major £7.2 million accessibility and safety upgrade on the famous Settle–Carlisle line.

The project, partly funded through the Department for Transport’s Access for All programme, has delivered two new lifts and a fully accessible footbridge at the North Yorkshire station, which is widely used by walkers visiting the nearby Pen-y-Ghent and the Yorkshire Three Peaks route.

Before the upgrade, passengers were required to cross the tracks via a foot crossing in order to move between platforms. The new infrastructure is designed to improve both accessibility and safety for rail users and visitors to the area.

The project also supports freight operations after the nearby Horton Quarry was reconnected to the rail network over Easter 2025 for the first time in 60 years. The restored link allows aggregate to be transported by rail instead of road, helping reduce lorry traffic and lower carbon emissions.

Rory Kingdon, principal programme sponsor for Network Rail’s North West route, said:

“The £7.2m investment to make Horton-in-Ribblesdale station accessible for all will make a huge difference to the local community and people visiting the scenic Yorkshire Dales national park, or embarking on the Yorkshire Three Peaks challenge. I’d like to thank passengers, residents and walkers for their patience during the work"

Peter Hendy, Rail Minister, said:

“We’re building a railway that works for everyone and these improvements at Horton-in-Ribblesdale station will mean more people can travel independently. Whether it’s commuting to work, accessing education, or visiting loved ones, everyone should be able to travel with confidence. With the support of Network Rail and local partners, our Access for All programme is delivering practical changes that make a real difference for passengers.”

David Skaith, mayor of York and North Yorkshire, said:

“The Three Peaks are world-class and draw in thousands every year, but the first hurdle of the challenge shouldn’t be at the station. As a key part of our White Rose Plan for Rail, we want every station in the region to be fully accessible, this new bridge at Horton-in-Ribblesdale is a major step forward. Improving safety, opening up the countryside, and taking lorries off the road, is ensuring this station serves our community and thousands of visitors for another 150 years.”

Kerry Peters, director of stations at Northern, said:

“We’re delighted this project has been completed, as providing step-free access makes a real difference to our customers. We’re hoping it will give more people the confidence to use Horton-in-Ribblesdale station, so they can enjoy journeys along one of the most scenic railway lines in Europe. We will continue to work with Network Rail to improve accessibility across our vast network and always welcome feedback from customers.”

Image: Network Rail