GISBURN

Part 1

Going back centuries, Gisburn Manor was noted in the Domesday Book of 1086. The railway arrived many years later when the L&Y station opened in June 1879 and was the terminus for a year. Then situated in the West Riding of Yorkshire, the station had extensive goods sidings, facilities and cattle pens to serve the local livestock auctions that are still in operation today. Along the north side of the Main Street were three public houses — 'The White Bull', 'The Ribblesdale Arms' and the 'New Inn' — all serving excellent ales with a cheery welcome. Sadly all are now closed, but there is hope that 'The White Bull' may re-open soon after closing in January 2026. Not all is lost though, as across the road sits the 'Delicious Deli' café and shop serving snacks and tasty breakfasts.

No. 72007 'Clan Mackintosh' at closed Gisburn Station on the RCTS special, May 1964

Nearly two years after the last passenger train called at the station things still look in pretty good order as 6P5F loco No. 72007 'Clan Mackintosh' is seen with the 'Ribble-Lune' railtour in May 1964. (Peter Fitton)

The 'STELLA' Colne to York special dmu passing the closed Gisburn signal box, 5 December 1981

Passing the closed signal box on 5 December 1981 is the 'STELLA' Colne to York special dmu. Having already reversed at Blackburn, it would do the same again at Hellifield to gain the line to Skipton and beyond. (J.M.)

No. 25081 heading south with a short goods train for Blackburn at Gisburn, 5 December 1981

Seventeen years after the first picture, virtually no trace of the station survives as No. 25081 heads south with a short goods train for Blackburn. (J.M.)

Heavy lorries and traffic on Gisburn Main Street with The White Bull pub visible on the left, April 2026

While Whalley, Clitheroe and Chatburn all enjoy a by-pass to alleviate heavy traffic, unfortunately Gisburn is not so lucky, seeing a continuous stream of cars and oversized heavy lorries. A typical scene with 'The White Bull' pictured on the left in April 2026. (J.M.)

Gisburn — Part 2 in our next issue

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