UK train graveyard where locomotives sit rotting in middle of the countryside

A hidden train graveyard near Thirsk in North Yorkshire has a collection of decaying British Rail Mark 2 train carriages abandoned in the countryside. 

Originally part of a larger group moved from Sinderby due to an A1 widening project, more than 20 carriages were transported to the site, with most since auctioned or scrapped, leaving only seven remaining. 

Even though the site is now much smaller than it used to be, it still catches the eye of urban explorers.

The abandoned trains were once full of passengers but now sit empty and corroding. 

The interiors are stripped with all major components like batteries, copper and alternators gone.

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Restoring these trains would be very difficult because they are prone to corrosion, contain asbestos and lack modern braking systems. 

What’s more, most are also unsuitable for modern rail infrastructure.

Urban exploration group Lost Places & Forgotten Faces captured some striking images of the decaying trains back in 2020. 

The group, which secured permission to explore the site, shared their experience on Facebook. 

Their photos showed the creepy condition of the carriages, with broken windows, peeling paint and debris scattered around. 

In an accompanying caption they wrote: “What a find. This place is incredible, hidden in plain sight.

“The decay on the trains was sad to see. I was thinking about the amount of passengers they must have ferried around in their heyday.”

The site often referred to as the Dalton Train Graveyard has become a popular spot for urban explorers over the years. 

Lost Places & Forgotten Faces described the experience of climbing into the carriages as challenging due to shattered windows with sharp glass. 

They added that it was one of their “favourite” places to explore.

However, anyone who wishes to visit must get permission from the local council and local safety bodies.