Settle–Carlisle Railway Prepares for One Million Passengers as It Celebrates 150 Years

Passenger numbers on the iconic Settle–Carlisle railway line are expected to surpass one million journeys this year as the historic route marks its 150th anniversary.

The milestone is being celebrated with a series of special events and has also gained the support of broadcaster and railway enthusiast Michael Portillo.

A full programme of commemorative activities is being organised by the Settle–Carlisle Railway Development Company, highlighting the significance of one of Britain’s most famous railways. Among the planned celebrations is a special charter steam train journey between Carlisle and York on 25 May, offering passengers the chance to experience the route in traditional style.

Train operator Northern is also joining the celebrations by releasing thousands of promotional tickets priced at £1.50, encouraging more passengers to experience the historic line.

The popularity of the route has continued to grow in recent years. Northern recorded around 995,000 journeys between Leeds and Carlisle in 2025, with August proving the busiest month, when approximately 96,000 trips were made along the line.

Stretching for 72 miles, the railway is widely regarded as one of the most scenic journeys in the UK. Travellers are treated to spectacular views of the Pennines, the Yorkshire Dales and the Eden Valley, while the route is also home to the famous Ribblehead Viaduct, one of Britain’s most recognisable railway structures.

The line itself is a remarkable piece of Victorian engineering. Construction was completed in 1875 following an enormous project that involved the labour of around 6,000 workers. Passenger services officially began on 1 May 1876, establishing the line as an important connection through northern England.

Despite its historic importance, the railway faced closure in the 1980s, but a determined public campaign successfully saved it, securing its future as both a transport link and a major tourist attraction. In more recent years, the line has also proved valuable as a diversionary route during major rail upgrades elsewhere on the network.

Alex Hornby, Commercial and Customer Director at Northern, said the railway’s popularity continues to grow thanks to its unique scenery and visitor appeal.

He noted that it is easy to understand why the route attracts so many travellers each year and expressed confidence that passenger numbers would exceed one million journeys during the anniversary year. Hornby highlighted the constantly changing landscapes visible from the train and the opportunities for passengers to stop and explore the surrounding areas along the route.

He also welcomed the recognition the line has received as one of the most scenic rail journeys in Europe, adding that Northern is looking forward to supporting the anniversary celebrations.

Pete Myers, Chair of the Settle–Carlisle Railway Development Company, emphasised the line’s importance to both local communities and visitors.

He described the railway as a unique link connecting Yorkshire and Cumbria, while also providing a sustainable and scenic way for travellers to explore destinations including the Yorkshire Dales, Westmorland Dales and the Lake District.

Myers explained that during the anniversary year, the organisation is working closely with communities along the route to deliver a wide range of events that both residents and visitors can enjoy, all accessible via what he described as the line’s award-winning railway service.

With celebrations planned and interest in rail travel continuing to grow, the 150th anniversary of the Settle–Carlisle linelooks set to be a landmark year for one of Britain’s most treasured railway routes.