Although it was the original terminus to cross Pennines rail traffic on the Eden Valley Railway, it was rapidly bypassed by a new line and junction.

However, even before the Eden Valley line opened, plans were conceived to build a northern junction that would provide a direct link between the industrial areas of West Cumberland and the northeast's coalfields around Durham and Newcastle.

Although the branch, which had several cuttings, embankments, and bridges, was completed to Clifton station by 1862, permission was given to build the northern connection that would allow trains from Penrith to run directly onto the Eden Valley line.

The Earl and his family often exercise their right, and the German Emperor, when visiting his friend Lord Lonsdale, has more than once also availed himself of the privilege of detraining at Lowther.

Lord Lonsdale, moreover, is a landlord and nobleman of the old type, who does everything pertaining to his station and duties as a "grand seigneur" in a way above all criticism and cavil.