The Quintinshill Rail Disaster

Published on 22 May 2025
Submitted by David Carter

The Quintinshill disaster was a rail crash which occurred on 22 May 1915 outside the Quintinshill signal box near Gretna Green. It involved a troop train carrying men to Liverpool who were bound for the Gallipoli campaign.

A southbound troop train collided head-on with a stationary local train on the up line at 6.49 am. Just sixty seconds later, a second northbound express train ran into the wreckage.

In this presentation, David Carter explains the background and events on the day which resulted in the deaths of over 200 people. It remains the worst rail disaster in British history.

The Quintinshill Rail Disaster
Key benefits of membership

Becoming a member of The Western Front Association (WFA) offers a wealth of resources and opportunities for those passionate about the history of the First World War. Here's just three of the benefits we offer:

Bulletin Magazine Icon
Bulletin Magazine

This magazine provides updates on WW1 related news, WFA activities and events.

Virtual Battlefield Tours Icon
Virtual battlefield tours

Access online tours of significant WWI sites, providing immense learning experience.

Podcasts Ebinars Icon
Podcasts

Listen to over 300 episodes of the "Mentioned in Dispatches" podcast.

Other Articles

Gemini Generated Image 4M6i634m6i634m6i
8 August 2026

The RAF at the Battle of Amiens, 8 - 11 August 1918

Read more
Lewis Gun Drill By 28Th AIF
1 August 2026

Death from the Sky: The 28th Bttn AIF

Read more
Gemini Generated Image Ypxif7ypxif7ypxi (1)
30 July 2026

The New Zealand Division in the Third Battle of Ypres

Read more
Burslem Potteries
25 July 2026

From Burslem to the Somme and the long road to Commemoration

Read more
Walworth(Early20thc)Road Old2,Jpg
21 July 2026

The South London Ghost Stations: Why Five ‘Temporary’ WWI Closures Became Permanent

Read more