A historic former Herefordshire station opened its gates to the public recently, providing a rare opportunity to see the lovingly restored site.

Rowden Mill Station in Bredenbury welcomed visitors to the former rail line, to spectate the special moment a blue plaque was unveiled on September 2.

The plaque was unveiled after the station received the prestigious award for the 2023 National Railway Heritage Award (NRHA) for restoration on a closed line.

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The Bredenbury station, which closed in 1952, lay derelict until the early 1980s when it underwent authentic restoration to original GWR plans. The site was carefully restored, now operating as a holiday letting business, which allows guests to stay in the converted station.

The open day event was managed by the Bredenbury Village Hall Committee supported by members of the parish council, with all proceeds going to the village hall renovation fund.

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Representing the NRHA were Andy Savage, Robert Hayward, Malcolm Wood and Peter Waller along with Helene Rossiter of National Highways who sponsored the award, with Ms Rossiter publicly unveiling the plaque.

Also in attendance were the Mayor of Bromyard Mark Franklin, Herefordshire Council ward councillor Bruce Baker, Diane Mansell, chief executive of the Herefordshire County BID, Charlotte Martin chair of the Bromyard Chamber of Commerce along with Ian Campbell representing the Bromyard Local History Society.

Speaking on the day, owners Paul Kirwan and Cecilia Chavez-Brandon thanked the local community, friends, neighbours and well-wishers for all their support, not only in hosting the open day, but also for helping to maintain this ‘unlikely survivor from the age of steam’ for future generations.