Hincaster Junction

The east end of Hincaster tunnel under the WCML (which can just be made out above the portal). Although this looks like a single track railway tunnel, it is in fact part of the abandoned Lancaster Canal, which formerly operated between Preston and Kendal. The tunnel was constructed during 1816 & 1817 and is 378 yards long. Over 4 million bricks were used in construction and in its day was the first major brick structure north of the River Mersey. The path to the left also leads under the WCML, over the hill and to the west side of the tunnel. It was used by the horses that pulled the canal barges as there was no towpath through the tunnel. The last commercial canal traffic passed through here in 1944. See also photos 21298 and 21302. This is a key point on yesterday's and today's transport networks as the A590 dual carriageway to the Lake District also passes under the WCML approx 50 yards to the right of the picture.

Location: Hincaster Junction (former)

Original line: Lancaster and Carlisle Railway

Photographer: John McIntyre

Contact photographer: John McIntyre

Contact editor

Date: 20/06/2009

Image number: 24337


Other photographs of Hincaster Junction on RailScot