The Abbey Line then and now

We recently had this lovely feedback in an email from Roger Taylor.

“I lived in St.Albans from 1947 to 1972 and travelled on the line from St Albans Abbey to Watford Junction on many occasions. In the 1960’s the line became very run down and was a suitable case for closure. Thank goodness it didn’t happen.

For some strange reason I and my friends always preferred to travel to Watford by train rather than use bus route 321. We travelled to see Watford F.C. In the early 1960s, a long walk to the Abbey station and the same to Vicarage Road (Watford F. C. Ground). Then back again! Must have been fit.

I travelled the line for the first time for many years on Saturday, what a pleasure it was. The stations are clean, as are the trains, and the many information boards etc. are extremely helpful and interesting. So much better than the old days.

St. Albans Abbey station is much improved, I miss the lovely station building and canopy but not the Gas Works, the smell was awful. Now it seems to be set in a sylvan setting, almost a country station. As for Bricket Wood station – an absolute gem, nice coffee as well!

Well done to all concerned, your work is much appreciated.”

Some of you may already know of Roger, he co-authored the book “The Hatfield and St Albans Branch of the Great Northern Railway”, published by the Oakwood Press in 1988.

We are always interested in hearing your stories about the Abbey Line. Do get in touch with us if you’d like to share any!