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Why Bat And Ball?
It's a good question. So since I joined the railway back in the 80s its been one of those small stations that you remember because of it's very individual names. The station is situated between Sevenoaks and Otford on a small branch line covering just 2m 63 miles long. Opened in 1862 as 'Sevenoaks' it retained the name until it was renamed in 1950 to its current name of Bat And Ball. The name comes from a pub that was close by but is now closed. Some information on the original pub can be found here.
The station only has two platforms. Platform 1 is the southbound line to Sevenoaks, the other is the Northbound platform with services to Blackfriars.
In the past the station was served by trains from London Victoria. Way back in BR days I remember being asked abotu the last trin back to Bat and Ball around the Christmas time. The guy on the phone was quite pleased the train would get him there in time for "one last pint". Not sure if he actually got his libation or not. The London bound platform has a lovely old wooden shelter with seats in it. Beauifully restored and kept nice. To the rear of it is accessible ramps but it appears you have to walk past the Bat And Ball Community Centre to get to the station.
Platform 1 is the main platform in terms of buildings. The Victorian building has been restored and is a diamond the in rough of the nearby industrual estate. Reading from sources the station ad royal guests in 1866 and 1867.
On the platform is a fower planter that looks like a small wagon, the bridge has no cover (it did back in the BR days from photos) and at the North end is a brick built structure. I have not idea what is currently used for but it's location infers ot maybe the remanents of the signal box.
For a lot more information on the station please do visit the brilliant Bat And Ball Station Website.
