A Tale of Two Funiculars, Hastings Cliff Railways - The history and some detailed video.

A Tale of Two Funiculars, Hastings Cliff Railways - The history and some detailed video.
Hastings is blessed with two funicular railways. One on the East Hill which is the steepest in the UK and one on the West Hill which is the only on in the UK to be almost entirely in a brick built tunnel.

'A funicular is a form of cable railway which connects points along a railway laid on a steep slope. Two counterbalanced cars are permanently attached to opposite ends of the haulage cable, which is looped over a pulley at the upper end of a track. The two cars move in concert: as one ascends, the other descends.'

This is the story of how they came about and some of the experiences included with some mysteries and accidents too.

There is some detailed footage using two cameras going both up and down the two railways.

The West Hill launched in 1891 and even helped with a 20 guineas contribution from Queen Victoria went 60% over budget and went bust by 1894. Over 1 million bricks aren't cheap.

The East Hill Funicular started in on the 9th August 1902 which was the Coronation Day for Edward VII and his wife Aleandra. It broke down in the afternoon.

Within 3 months there was an accident where a car broke free and crashed into a stationary car causing minor injuries to 12 people.

I also assess the future.

I have tried to be accurate with my research but am not infallible so apologies for any errors...