The signal box is situated on the north side of the former Coxwold station level crossing; the gatekeeper’s cottage behind it is now a private residence and externally, similar to the box, remains largely unaltered.
Coxwold Station itself, which functioned as a ticket office and stationmaster’s residence and is also now a home, was a small rural railway station located in the picturesque village situated within the North Yorkshire Moors National Park. It formed part of the Thirsk and Malton Line, a rural branch line designed to link market towns across the former North Riding. Opening in 1853, Coxwold Station served as an important transport link for agricultural goods and local residents until its closure to passengers in 1953.
The station was built during a period of rapid railway expansion, following the success of larger trunk lines such as the East Coast Main Line. The Thirsk and Malton Line was promoted largely for local agricultural and industrial use, and Coxwold Station reflected this focus. It featured a single platform with modest passenger facilities, and a goods yard with a loading dock as well as a siding to accommodate freight wagons, particularly for livestock and produce.
While Coxwold Station never experienced high traffic, it was vital for local commerce and contributed to the viability of surrounding farms and businesses. During the early 20th century, it also served tourists visiting nearby Shandy Hall—the former home of author Laurence Sterne—and the picturesque Howardian Hills.
Following its closure in May 1953 for local passenger service, the route remained for seasonal holiday trains via Malton until 1962, and also for goods to Amotherby from Malton until two years later. Much of the line was dismantled, though the platform and trackbed remain partially visible, whilst the former track offers a leisurely walking route between Husthwaite and Coxwold.
Address: Husthwaite Road, Coxwold YO61 4AA
Books by Dr Emma Wells
