Image Licensing : Pans Lane Halt, c. 1960s

EDITORS COMMENTS

In this evocative photograph taken in the 1960s, we are transported back in time to Pans Lane Halt, a quaint railway station nestled in the picturesque countryside of Wiltshire. The scene is set with the tranquil Devizes branch line stretching out before us, its tracks leading the eye into the distance. Pans Lane Halt, a charming halt that served the southern part of Devizes, opened its doors to passengers in 1929. The halt's simple yet functional design is a testament to the era of railway travel, with its wooden platform, quaint shelter, and the distinctive red and white striped signal box standing proudly in the background. The photograph captures the essence of a bygone era, with the rustic charm of the halt and the lush greenery surrounding it. The railway line, a vital lifeline for the community, connected Devizes to the wider world, bringing people and goods to and from the town. Sadly, the halts' days were numbered, and it closed its doors for the final time in 1966. Yet, the legacy of Pans Lane Halt lives on, with the iconic Pans Lane Bridge still standing today as a reminder of the rich railway history that once thrived in this part of Wiltshire. This photograph offers a glimpse into the past, inviting us to imagine the sights, sounds, and stories that once unfolded at Pans Lane Halt. It serves as a poignant reminder of the role that railways played in shaping the fabric of our communities and the enduring appeal of the golden age of railway travel.