Few things in life are as gutting as missing a train – sweaty sprint to the platform, suitcase wheels rattling, only to be greeted by closed doors and the looming cost of a new ticket that feels like a down payment on a house. But if there’s any silver lining, it’s the humble railway pub. Because whether you’re drowning your sorrows or celebrating the fact you actually made it on time, there’s nothing like a pint before (or after) a journey.
And it turns out we’ve got The Cleveland Bay in Eaglescliffe, County Durham, to thank for starting that tradition. Built back in 1852 for the chairman of the Stockton and Darlington Railway, it’s officially the oldest purpose-built train station pub in the world. Still going strong almost two centuries later, the boozer doubles as a lively hub for live sport, pub quizzes and even blues music nights.
Now, The Cleveland Bay has been given Grade II listed status, meaning it’ll be preserved for generations of travellers yet to miss their trains. Historic England recommended the move as part of a wider celebration of 200 years of Britain’s railways – and the government agreed.
It’s not the only site to get the honour. The Cleveland Bay is one of two railway sites and five heritage railway stations to have been granted protection in recognition of their historic and architectural interest and to mark 200 years of the modern railway.
Among the others listed are the adorably quaint Sheringham Station in Norfolk, along with Swanage Engine Shed and Turntable in Dorset, a rare 1885 survivor from the steam era. Over in Devon, the Woody Bay Station has also been protected, partly thanks to its fairytale ‘chalet-style’ architecture, a nod to the area’s old nickname: ‘Little Switzerland’.
Heritage Minister Baroness Twycross summed it up neatly: ‘These seven sites are stunning examples of our railway heritage. They remind us how vital the railways have been for connecting people across the country. These listings will ensure they can be enjoyed for another two hundred years.’
So, next time you’re in the North East with a bit of time to kill, you could do worse than raising a glass to history at The Cleveland Bay - the pub that proves Britain really did invent the art of the platform pint.
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