Beauly Station: The UK's Diminutive Railway Marvel
Nestled in the scenic Scottish Highlands, Beauly Station holds the unique distinction of being the smallest railway station in the United Kingdom. With a platform measuring a mere 15 metres in length, it is notably shorter than a single train carriage, presenting a logistical challenge for passenger services.
A Platform Shorter Than the Train
This compact size means that only one door on the train can open at a time when stopping at Beauly. Passengers intending to alight here must be given advance notice, with an announcement made to ensure they are prepared to disembark efficiently. The station handles approximately 35,000 passenger journeys annually, a remarkable figure given its modest facilities.
Historical Significance and Modern Revival
Beauly Station boasts a rich heritage, having first opened in 1862. However, by 1960, intense competition from local bus services led to its closure. After more than four decades of determined campaigning by local residents, the station was triumphantly reopened in 2002.
The reinstatement came with a £250,000 investment, resulting in a solitary platform that stands today. While the station originally featured two platforms, a passing loop, and a goods shed during its 19th-century construction for the Inverness to Invergordon line, the current setup is a streamlined version of its former self.
Facilities and Services
Today, Beauly Station offers modest amenities including a 10-space car park, bicycle storage, and shelter facilities. There is no ticket office, but it serves ScotRail services, connecting passengers to key destinations such as Wick, Kyle of Lochalsh, Dingwall, Invergordon, Ardgay, and Inverness, which is located about 10 miles to the east.
Trains operating on this line, typically Class 158 models, extend beyond the length of Beauly's platform. Consequently, it is standard practice for only the front door of the train to open, allowing for safe boarding and alighting. This operational quirk underscores the station's unique place in the UK's railway network, blending historical charm with modern functionality in a truly compact form.
