This 1884 architectural plan, sourced from Network Rail Archives, reveals the design of the London, Brighton & South Coast Railway (LBSCR) stables at Brighton Station. Built as part of the station’s continued expansion, these stables played a crucial role in railway operations, housing the horses responsible for hauling goods wagons and transporting freight to and from the station.
Key Features of the Design
Trafalgar Arches and Later Expansion
The plan suggests that the ground floor units, now known as the Trafalgar Arches, were developed as a later phase of the station’s expansion. These arches, which still exist today, originally served as functional spaces linked to railway logistics.
Stabling for Over 60 Horses
The general plan details stalls for over 60 horses, essential for railway operations before mechanised transport. These animals would have pulled LBSCR goods wagons, similar to the one seen in the historic photograph included in the plan, showcasing the scale of horse-powered transport at the time.
Connection to the Goods Yard
The elevation drawing shows how the stables were positioned adjacent to the goods yard, ensuring efficient movement of horses and wagons between railway freight operations and Brighton’s bustling streets. The integration of equine infrastructure into railway stations was a common feature of Victorian transport networks, highlighting the reliance on horsepower before the widespread adoption of motorised vehicles.
A Forgotten Legacy
While rail transport moved on from horse-drawn logistics, the Trafalgar Arches and surrounding station infrastructure remain as a testament to Brighton’s industrial past. This plan provides a rare insight into the hidden working life of the station, where horses and railway workers once played an essential role in keeping Brighton connected to national and international trade routes.
