SLHS: Milcote Station

History

In 1859 the station was opened by the Oxford, Worcester and Wolverhampton Railway on a single track branch line. The Great Western Railway bought out the OWWR and in 1908 doubled the line between Stratford and Honeybourne making this the new Main Line from Birmingham to Cheltenham and South Wales where huge goods trains were destined. As the only form of public transport in the area a second platform was added.

Closure

In 1966, due to negligible use, BR closed the station itself but heavy goods trains continued to use the route until 1976. Three years later the rails were lifted. The local level crossing and vital level crossing on the Evesham Road in Stratford removed with a roundabout to take its place.

Much campaigning from rail enthusiasts called for reconnection of the Gloucester And Warwickshire Steam Railway through here but to no avail as level crossings are seriously outlawed by Railtrack.

● These items have aspects that uniquely contribute to national or world history.

Stannels Bridge

In order to get to Milcote originally the Oxford, Worcester and Wolverhampton Railway had to cross the River Avon. As the line was destined to run large locomotive this was done by a stalwart trussed girder bridge. Of course when the GWR doubled the track there needed to be a second crossing hardby.

Stannels Bridge in its hayday.

Stratford Greenway now  2023

A GWR Main Line passenger train ready to cross the level crossing.

“The first train on Platform 2 is the 11:55 service to Cheltenham Spa.

Modern Times

Sidings

As there was significant demand for the transport of farm produce s small marshaling yard was constructed.

Café Coach

At the end of your 3 mile stroll you might need a little refreshment and so one coach was brought in to support a little local business. The family that run it have become very well known for the care that they afford the customers that they serve.

Creation Of Stratford Greenway

ln 1989 the trackbed was laid with hoggin to produce a combined cycle and pedestrian leisure walkway. This was a joint venture between Sustrans and Warwickshire County Council.

The GWR and LMR south of Stratford

Stratford Greenway looking in the same direction as the picture above.

Between Clifford Chambers and Weston-on-Avon

“More tea, vicar ?”

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