The Friends of the Settle Carlisle Line were formed in 1981 to campaign against a proposal to close this famous historic and scenic route, and in 1989 the Government decided that the line must remain open.

Since then we have acted as a user group to improve facilities and services for passengers. Eight stations have been reopened, the number of trains has increased, station buildings have been refurbished, platforms raised and Victorian style lamps installed. We have restored the disused signal boxes at Armathwaite and Settle Station. We operate a 'Station Adoption Scheme' whereby some of our members tend the flower beds and look after the station welfare. We also help to produce and distribute promotional leaflets to boost passenger numbers, and we organise guided walks from some trains. We work in partnership with other organisations on many projects.

Much has been achieved, much remains to be done.

We would also like to see all the stations fully restored; Anglo-Scottish trains running again; regular services on the line from Lancashire; and better marketing initiatives.

Each member receives a quarterly magazine featuring news and developments on the line.

If you would like to apply for membership on-line please click here.

If you would like to contact the Friends, please email info@settle-carlisle.co.uk but before you do, please note that we have nothing whatever to do with steam trains. These are occasionally run by specialist charter companies.

						The longest (but not the highest - Smardale) viaduct is Ribblehead at 440 yards long and 105 feet at its highest point