Present-Day Caledonian Railway
The Caledonian Railway operates a 4-mile stretch of track between Brechin and Bridge of Dun, providing scenic rides through the Angus countryside. The railway hosts regular events, such as steam galas, Santa Specials, and Murder Mystery trains, attracting families and railway enthusiasts alike. Both stations, Brechin and Bridge of Dun have been restored to reflect their historical character, with Brechin Station housing a café and museum.
Preservation
In 1979, the Caledonian Railway Brechin Limited was formed to restore and preserve part of the line for heritage purposes. Volunteers worked to relay track, restore the stations at Brechin and Bridge of Dun, and acquire heritage rolling stock. The first passenger services on the preserved railway began in the 1990s.
History of the Caledonian Railway
The original Caledonian Railway Company was founded in 1837 to connect Scotland’s central belt to England, competing with other railway companies like the North British Railway and Glasgow and South Western Railway. The branch line from Brechin to Bridge of Dun was opened in 1895, serving local agricultural and industrial communities. It primarily transported passengers, agricultural goods, and freight, including cattle and produce from the fertile Angus region. Passenger numbers on the Brechin to Bridge of Dun line declined after World War II due to the rise of road transport. The line was closed to passenger traffic in 1952, although freight services continued until 1981, after which the line was abandoned.