Wingfield: Before and after photos show major restoration of one of the world's oldest railway stations

Impressive before and after photos show the major transformation of one of the world's oldest railway stations in Derbyshire.

The ambitious project to save Wingfield Station is now complete and the building is set to open its doors to the public on Friday.

Thought to be one of the oldest purpose-built railway stations in the world, the restoration has been a huge labour of love for the Derbyshire Heritage Building Trust.

The railway building was closed in the 1960s Beeching cuts after the Barlow Family (who lived there during the 50s) moved on to live and work near Salford. After being left to stand empty for more than half a century, the once beautiful building declined into near dereliction.

Wingfield station is the only remaining station building on the Derby to Leeds line, it was built in 1840 by railway pioneers, George and Robert Stephenson, reports our sister title The Derbyshire Times.

Read more: Video shows happy tiger devouring giant pumpkin at Twycross Zoo

After a long process to secure ownership of the building and restore it to its former condition, Derbyshire Historic Buildings Trust (DHBT) is delighted that Enid Buxton (of the Barlow family) will officially re-open the station on Friday, October 27, 2023.

The opening day marks the start of a programme of events that will give the public a chance to see the station before it is handed over to new office tenants.

DHBT has expressed its gratitude to The National Lottery Heritage Fund for valuable financial aid over the last three years for this project. The funding has made it possible not only to carry out restoration work on the building, building on emergency repairs supported by Historic England, but also to involve local people in the building’s revival through events and activities.

Robyn Llewellyn, Director for England, Midlands and East at The National Lottery Heritage Fund, said: “It’s fantastic to see the transformation of Wingfield Station take shape. It’s thanks to National Lottery players that the repair, preservation, and enhancement of one of the world's oldest country railway stations has been possible and will continue to be enjoyed by future generations.”

Public open days start on the October 28, when re-enactors will bring the station to life: you can get a stamp from the ticket clerk, or meet passengers in the waiting rooms.

The launch day will feature Shirland Brass Band at 11.00am and 12.30pm, and the Alfreton Male Voice Choir at 3.00pm. A self-guided trail will introduce families to the story of the station. It will also be the first chance to see a model railway of the line as it was in the 1940s that’s been specially built for the goods shed.

For full details of the opening day, visit DHBT’s website. Car parking is limited so visitors are encouraged to use public transport.