(14 Jan 2014, 4:45 pm)G-CPTN wrote Haydon Bridge has trains that pass through every hour but only stop alternately (ie every two hours) - likewise Bardon Mill, Brampton and Wetheral.
There are also rural dwellings between the stations that are served by the 685.
The reliability of the 685 seems to be the biggest issue. I can't imagine anyone going point to point not the service, would local service not be better for the rural areas? Not too familiar with the area.