The next episode of The Architecture: The Railways Built, with presenter Tim Dunn, explores the history of York railway station, and how it helped change the city forever.

At one time, the station was the biggest in the world, and the programme reveals that the station used today is not the original city station. With help from the NRM’s Head Curator, Andrew McLean, viewers will learn about the original station which was first built in 1841 on the site of City of York Council HQ.

However, details are still evident in today’s building are surrounding area, including the city walls.

York station that is used today was built in 1877, with 13 platforms, it was an architectural marvel and the largest station in the world.

Andrew McLean Head Curator at the National Railway Museum, in York, said: “Thanks to George Hudson, York was at the very centre of Britain’s railway system and it remains an important railway city to this day. York station has a fascinating history and played an important role in the development of the railways across the UK. It was a real pleasure to turn the spotlight on our home city for this series.”

Dr Emma Wells from the University of York’s Centre for Life Long Learning said: “It was a true pleasure to unravel the intricate web of both beauty and engineering which surrounds the architecture of York station. Everywhere you look, from down to the tracks and up to the roof, every inch of its design is ingrained with signs, symbols and meanings integral to York, and indeed Yorkshire’s, rich past—most of which will be entirely unknown to the everyday commuter. It teaches us all to look a bit closer.”

The Architecture The Railways Built presenter, Tim Dunn says: “No matter where you are in the UK, this is a great way to experience York’s rich railway history, even if you can’t travel right now. I visit York regularly to experience the rich history of the railways that are in the area – including the National Railway Museum – who were incredibly helpful to us in filming this series for Yesterday. We hope everyone enjoys the episode and can see what an important role York has had to play in the history of the railways.”

Also in this episode, the Riblehead Viaduct features, which is part of the Settle – Carlisle line. Here, Tim takes part in the restoration of the station and visits an original signal box.

The next episode of The Architecture: The Railways Built can be viewed on Tuesday 19th May at 8 pm. Other episodes are available on UKTV Play.

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