Sandgate Branch

The Sandgate branch was a railway branch line that ran from Sandling railway station in Kent on the South Eastern Main Line to Hythe and Sandgate stations. It opened in 1874 and closed completely in 1951.

History

The line opened in 1874, and for the first few years trains ran to and from Westenhanger railway station on the main line, then in 1888 Sandling Junction opened with four platforms, two for the main line and two for the branch.

Usage was always light, possibly because of the position of the two stations away from the populations they served. A horse drawn tramline was built to try improve connections. Between the first and second world wars Sandgate station was closed and the remaining line between Sandling and Hythe singled. The line was closed for a couple of years during the second world war, and it reopened in 1945 with two trains a day each way. The last train ran between Hythe and Sandling on 3rd December 1951 and Sandling Junction was renamed Sandling.

Almost the entire route from Sandling to Hythe remains intact (but with track lifted) including cuttings and embankments (though not bridges). However, a key obstacle to an enthusiasts group considering re-opening the line in the 1980s was the fact that the Saltwood Woods tunnel, and part of its cutting to the south of the tunnel, have been partially infilled with refuse.

Hythe Station

This was originally two platforms just after the railway crossed Blackhouse Hill. The station area has been completely redeveloped with housing.

Sandgate Station

This was again two platforms positioned just after the railway crossed Hospital Hill. The station area has been completely redeveloped, although the railway bridge across Hospital Hill remains.

References

Lost Railways of Kent, Leslie Oppitz (2006)