Old level crossing

Image: © Adrian Taylor Taken: 22 Aug 2023

The level crossing on the towpath of Ulverston Canal is adjacent to the Vazon sliding drawbridge (photograph Image) which carried the Bardsea Branch over the canal. The Bardsea Branch, also referred to as The Conishead Priory Branch and latterly as the Glaxo Branch, commenced at Plumpton Junction and was originally double track at this point. The branch never reached Bardsea, instead terminating a short distance south of Conishead Priory Station. The original intention of continuing the branch through to Barrow-in-Furness to provide an easily graded coastal route for heavy freight trains avoiding the climb to Lindal Summit was never achieved. The railway track has been lifted beyond the palisade fencing. The ‘A board’ sign directs potential customers across the bridge to a refreshment kiosk on the south bank of the canal.

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