Iconic Brief Encounter Clock Returns to Carnforth After Restoration

Visitors to Carnforth Railway Station can once again view one of British cinema’s most recognisable props, as the original clock featured in Brief Encounter has been returned to the platform.

The timepiece, originally installed in December 1895 and built by Joyce of Whitchurch in Shropshire, was removed in August 2020 for restoration work and to allow its fixings to be remade. It has now been reinstated, bringing a historic centrepiece back into public view.

Its return carries particular significance for the station, long associated with the David Lean classic that helped cement its place in film history. The clock has become one of the most enduring symbols linked to the production, drawing visitors for decades.

The object’s survival has not always been certain. During the 1980s, as the station fell into decline, the clock was believed to have been lost. It was later recovered by Alan Smith, who tracked down its original components — including the mechanism, hands, faces, pendulum and weights — at a dealer in Twickenham. After funding a full restoration, he saw it rehung at the station in July 2002.

It was removed again in 2020 for further restoration work, and ownership has since passed to Alan’s son, Mike Smith, who has now overseen its return to the station.

Phil James, Network Rail’s route director said:

“We are absolutely thrilled to be welcoming the original Brief Encounter clock back to its rightful place in Carnforth station. This is a real tourist attraction for people visiting the area and I am very grateful to Mike Smith, the owner of the clock for allowing us to have the clock back in the station.”

Mike Smith, owner of the clock, said:

"I am so pleased to be here today, my father worked really hard to see this clock restored to its rightful place once again here on the platform and it is an honour to be able to represent him. Today is testament to the fact that common sense, coupled with a willingness to overcome challenges has prevailed. Everyone involved has done a terrific job of getting this true icon back to where it belongs."

Owain Roberts, Northern's stakeholder manager for the North West, said:

“We’re delighted the iconic clock from Brief Encounter has returned to its home at Carnforth station. It’s an important piece of local history and was a prominent feature at the station for years, with fans of the film travelling from far and wide to see it. They will be pleased to see the clock back in its rightful place and hopefully it will attract more visitors in the coming years.”

Image: Network Rail