Group Formed
Friday, 21st November, 2003
Group Description
Mailing list for all news and workings in the counties of Wiltshire and Avon.
Members can post news of workings and news related to the Wiltshire and Avon area. TOPS reports, Railtour timings, freight timings and details of forthcoming workings are very welcome. If any member lives outside the Wiltshire and Avon area, you may post details of workings, providing the working is due to pass through the Wiltshire and/or Avon area. All members are very welcome to make contributions to the group and you may post your own photos, post files and create links. Discussions are also welcome on this group providing they don't get out of hand.
Member's photos can be viewed at http://wag.fpic.co.uk
Members can post news of workings and news related to the Wiltshire and Avon area. TOPS reports, Railtour timings, freight timings and details of forthcoming workings are very welcome. If any member lives outside the Wiltshire and Avon area, you may post details of workings, providing the working is due to pass through the Wiltshire and/or Avon area. All members are very welcome to make contributions to the group and you may post your own photos, post files and create links. Discussions are also welcome on this group providing they don't get out of hand.
Member's photos can be viewed at http://wag.fpic.co.uk
Group Link
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Wiltshire and Avon Gen
Geographic Area Covered
Locations within group area
 | Location Name: TS517 - AshchurchLocation Notes: A railway station a mile to the east of Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire. The station is 8 miles from Cheltenham to the south.Railway type and traffic A two track main line on the Virgin Cross Country route between Birmingham and Gloucester and the south west.Activity through the area include will often include: Locomotives: 47, 67, 37,20, DB Schenker and Freightliner 66s and the odd 57\3 Units: 143, 150, 156, 158, 170, 180, 220, 221 and HSTs. The mainline is two tracks with a loop on the end of the station. Which freights go in there every so often. A brilliant place to come. On the end of the platforms, there are some good photo advantage points, looking both ways. There is also a line which goes into Ashchurch MOD and a train goes in there when it is required. |
 | Location Name: TS793 - Ashchurch, Claydon BridgeLocation Notes: A bridge over the two track main line on the Virgin Cross Country route between Birmingham and Gloucester and the south west.Railway type and traffic Activity through the area include will often include:Locomotives: 47, 67, 37,20, DB Schenker and Freightliner 66s and the odd 57\3 Units: 143, 150, 156, 158, 170, 180, 220, 221 and HSTs. |
 | Location Name: TS794 - Ashchurch, Homedowns Crossing, NattonLocation Notes: A crossing over the two track main line on the Cross Country route between Birmingham and Gloucester and the south west.Homedown Crossing has been revamped in September / October 2013. The fencing and gates have all been painted white and the stile crossings for pedestrians have been replaced by metal gates. The vehicle ramp over the tracks has been completely relaid although the gates for road-vehicles are padlocked. Railway type and traffic Activity through the area include will often include:Locomotives: 47, 67, 37,20, DB Schenker and Freightliner 66s and the odd 57\3 Units: 143, 150, 156, 158, 170, 180, 220, 221 and HSTs. |
 | Location Name: TS1059 - Awre Level Crossing, GloucestershireLocation Notes: Awre Level Crossing is on the main Gloucester to Newport line about 15 miles west of Gloucester. The crossing is an automatic barrier with good views of line.Railway type and traffic A typical few hours will see First Great Western DMUs pass on hourly Cardiff to Nottingham Services and Local Arriva service DMUs running between Cheltenham and Cardiff. Also FGW HSTs from London.Heavy DB Schenker class 66 freights pass mainly on steel and scrap trains; but also daily heavy class 60 tank trains pass on Westerleigh petroleum trains. These are routed via Gloucester if they are travelling from Wales as the only access into the Westerleigh branch is from the down line into Bristol |
 | Location Name: TS1080 - Bapton, Wylye ValleyLocation Notes: A farm crossing on a public bridleway close to the village of Wylye, Wiltshire. Situated on the line from Salisbury to Westbury, about twenty miles from Salisbury and likewise from Warminster.Railway type and traffic Most of the passenger services on this line are provided by First Great Western using Class 158 units, with a sprinkling of Class 150 and Class 153 units as well. The only other operator is South West Trains who run a handful of services using Class 159s each day.Freight is relatively sparse, mostly stone trains to/from the Mendip Quarries to/from Hamworthy, Fareham, Chichester and Eastleigh, with the occasional oil train from Fawley and regular engineers trains from Westbury to Eastleigh and vice versa. These are mostly in the hands of DB Schenker Class 59s and 66s, with the very occasional Class 60. There are also occasional MOD workings to Warminster and STP movements from Eastleigh Works heading to Bristol/Gloucester of carriages, wagons or multiple units. However, if the lines around Basingstoke are blocked due to engineering works, this can yield diverted Freightliners (usually Saturdays) although these are mostly heading south so this location is not the best place to go for them. |
 | Location Name: TS577 - Bath SpaLocation Notes: Bath Spa is the main railway station which serving the city. It is an ex-GWR station, the others being Bath Green Park (ex-Somerset and Dorset Joint Railway), which closed in 1966, the site of which is now occupied by a market, with the former trainshed being the car park for the adjacent Sainsburys supermarket and Oldfield Park on the west side of the city, which is a good place to see the Avon Bin liner pulling out from the council siding.Railway type and traffic The principal mainline trains are operated by First Great Western, using HSTs (Paddington to Bristol Temple Meads normally) with Alphaline operating local services to Cardiff Central (mostly class 158s).There are always opportunities to see freight trains, light engines (eg class 66) and there is an occasional steam special. |
 | Location Name: TS853 - Bedwyn StationLocation Notes: In the country of Wiltshire this is where the Thames Turbos from Paddington terminate and go into a siding before returning to London.Railway type and traffic Some First Great Western HST passenger trains. Also Turbos terminating and heading back to Paddington.Various stone trains from the Mendip Quarries. A couple of hours around lunchtime and early afternoon will usually allow half a dozen or so shots. |
 | Location Name: TS1071 - Berkley MarshLocation Notes: A rural location on the GWML between Westbury and Frome in Somerset.Railway type and traffic The line is quite busy with FGW HSTs, DMUs on the Bristol to Frome and Weymouth routeAll the Mendip stone traffic to and from both Whatley and Merehead passes here. Other freight includes the occasional Westbury to Moorswater cement working and ballast from Meldon Quarry to Westbury. Westbury is also a PW 'hub' and Berkley often sees engineers' trains heading to and from work sites in Somerset, Devon and Cornwall. The line also sees its share of excursion traffic including loco-hauled extras for the Glastonbury Festival in June. With luck, Bristol to Weymouth peak summer Saturday loco-hauled trains will continue in future years. |
 | Location Name: TS1010 - BourtonLocation Notes: A rural over bridge over the London - Bristol main line to the east of Swindon.Railway type and traffic 4-5 FGW expresses per hour each way, both HST and Adelante powered.Fairly regular freight of various types, mostly 66 hauled, both DB Schenker and Freightliner. |
 | Location Name: TS1110 - Bradford Abbas, YeovilLocation Notes: A bridge over the Salisbury to Exeter line at Bradford Abbas, about 3 miles outside Yeovil.Railway type and traffic More or less only South West Trains Class 159s. But there are often have charters to and from London throughout the year. |
 | Location Name: TS1072 - Brent KnollLocation Notes: An over bridge taking a quiet cul-de-sac lane over the main line between Yatton and Highbridge, a few miles from Weston-Super-Mare. Railway type and traffic Brent Knoll is on the main line from Bristol to Taunton and the south west. It sees FGW HSTs on services from Paddington routed via Bristol, Cross Country services (currently both Voyagers and HSTs) and FGW local Cardiff-Bristol-Taunton services which, at the time of writing, include 'top and tail' class 67 operations.Freight is very limited but includes 6V62, the weekly fuel oil working from Fawley to Bristol and Plymouth and DRS nuclear waster traffic to Bridgwater. The line sees excursion traffic from north of Bristol to the West Country, including steam-hauled workings such as the 'Torbay Express' and specials to the West Somerset Railway. |
 | Location Name: TS112 - Bristol ParkwayLocation Notes: A station on the outskirts of Bristol where South Wales, Cross Country and other South-west services call or pass. The station is on a curve. The station is quite a modern building and you can't really see anything else apart from it.Bristol Parkway is a closed station. The only way onto the platforms is with a valid travel ticket. (PL). The station has now been expanded to three platfoms with one of the original platfoms becoming an island platform. Railway type and traffic A busy "interchange" type station with Cross Country services from the South West, The Midlands and The North sharing the station with FGW services from London and South Wales, as well as local FGW services and some freight.Freightliner's Stoke Gifford Yard is adjacent to the station, Class 66's and 70's on coal traffic can often be seen here. |
 | Location Name: TS168 - Bristol, South Liberty LaneLocation Notes: A footbridge on the outskirts of Bristol. It crosses the Bristol to Exeter mainline and has an industrial estate on one side, and open country on the other.Railway type and traffic Main Line between Bristol and Exeter. Cross Country trains, Local services, fair bit of freight including DRS flask trains on Tuesdays and Thursdays, (depending on timetable). |
 | Location Name: TS890 - Broughton Gifford, MelkshamLocation Notes: A small road over bridge, near the village of Broughton Gifford, Melksham is the nearest town. The bridge is over the single line between Chippenham and Westbury.Railway type and traffic This line carries the trial TransWilts Community Rail Service of up to four trips a day between Swindon and Westbury.Heavy freight (stone, engineering and diverted freight liner trains) and diverted West of England express services when the Berks and Hants is closed. Railtours also use the line from time to time. The Glastonbury Festival creates interesting additional shuttle services between Swindon and Castle Cary. |
 | Location Name: TS1048 - Cam and DursleyLocation Notes: A halt on the Bristol-Birmingham main line, south of Gloucester.Railway type and traffic North East to South West Cross Country Voyagers, and FGW 150s/158s form most of the passenger traffic.Some freight from Avonmouth to the Midlands, plus the Westerleigh-Robeston tanks. Note: Traffic that is diverted via Gloucester when the Severn Tunnel is closed does not generally pass here, taking the Golden Valley line to Swindon instead. |
 | Location Name: TS1249 - ChetnoleLocation Notes: A road over railway bridge immediately next to Chetnole railway station on the Castle Cary to Weymouth line. The station is located on the road from the A37 Yeovil to Dorchester road to the village of Chetnole. Railway type and traffic The mainstay of traffic is First Great Western Class 150s, 158s and 153s. Occasional locomotive hauled passenger service have operated through the summer months. Steam and Diesel Specials operate throughout the year with occasional test trains.The nearby Yeovil Railway Centre services steam locomotives on railtours to Weymouth, so ECS movements from Weymouth including light engine moves will operate along this line to and from Weymouth and Yeovil. |
 | Location Name: TS1189 - Cogload JunctionLocation Notes: Cogload Junction is about 5 miles from Taunton, Somerset. Here the two mainlines one from London and one from Bristol and the north meet to head south to Taunton onwards. This location is on the old Great Western mainline and has some interesting Brunel style engineering.Railway type and traffic The line is a mainline serving the south west of Britain, most traffic is First Great Western but other kinds can be seen. There is regular FGW HST services about every 20-30 minutes, with small 2-4 car units serving local stops every hour or so. There is a few Cross Country services running Voyagers and HSTs roughly every 50 minutes. There is generally quite a lot of traffic about 10 minutes between each train.There is a small amount of freight mostly oil tankers going to Devon onwards. There can sometimes be some Network Rail traffic as their local base is only 6 miles away down the line. |
 | Location Name: TS167 - CroftonLocation Notes: Part of the 'Berks & Hants' section of the Great Western Main line between Newbury and Westbury.This section of line follows the Kennet & Avon Canal. A walk along the canal in both (Saveranke or Bedwyn) directions will usually reveal other picture taking possibilities. On nice days you will almost certainly bump into other railway photographers. Railway type and traffic Some First Great Western HST passenger trains. Various stone trains from the Mendip Quarries.A couple of hours around lunchtime and early afternoon will usually allow half a dozen or so shots. |
 | Location Name: TS130 - Curtis Lane, BristolLocation Notes: The bridge was demolished at the end of 2015 - This location is no longer availableA track at the end of a country lane approx half a mile from Bristol Parkway station. Update Feb 2006 This location has became a some what dangerous place to visit of late, the owner of the scrap yard at the end of the lane does not like pepole with cameras any where near his yard. He will tell you this in no uncertain terms. Railway type and traffic The location overlooks the main London - South West and Wales mainline.Frequent passenger traffic of all types plus freight, particularly coal trains to Didcot Power Station. |
 | Location Name: TS589 - Dorchester SouthLocation Notes: Dorchester, an historic market town, is the county town of Dorset. The Station is on the main line from London Waterloo to Weymouth. The nearest large town is Bournemouth.Railway type and traffic The main trains that travel through Dorchester South are South West trains, classes 450 and 442 EMU service.The Freightliner sand train, runs on Tuesday and Thursday afternoons at approximately 3.00pm. It bring in trucks, pushes them into a siding, un-couples a few and takes them into the station and will run round the train. The same operation will happen again when the train returns a couple of hours later. The 66 returns light engine. Steam tours travel through the station every couple of months. Every 2 to 3 months a Balfour Beatty track cleaner comes down from Eastleigh and parks in the sidings for later use. |
 | Location Name: TS1248 - Evershot Tunnel, Southern Portal, HolywellLocation Notes: The Southern end of Evershot Tunnel on the Castle Cary to Weymouth line. The tunnel is referred to as Evershot Tunnel, but is actually located in the village of Holywell, just of the A37 Yeovil to Dorchester Road.Railway type and traffic The mainstay of traffic is First Great Western Class 150s, 158s and 153s, with the occasional test train. Steam and diesel specials operate throughout the year. Railtour ECS movements to and from Yeovil Junction and Weymouth will pass this location for servicing at Yeovil Junction. |
 | Location Name: TS1006 - FreshfordLocation Notes: Update Jan 2015: Vegetation growth has made this location unusable for the time being.Freshford is the first station south of Bath on the line to Westbury. It is a small village in a green and rural setting close to the River Avon and the Kennet and Avon Canal. Railway type and traffic The line sees frequent FGW DMU services comprising classes 143, 150, 153 and 158 plus SWT class 159 sets.Freight includes coal from South Wales to Westbury cement works, engineer's workings, fuel tanks to St Phillip's Marsh and a few stone workings. At weekends when the Badminton and/or Box routes are closed for engineering work, the line may also see diverted HSTs and additional freight including coal from Portbury to Didcot power station and 'Murco' bogie fuel tankers from Theale to South Wales. Regular motive power comprises classes 66, 59 and 60. Voyagers also use the line on diversion when the main line south of Bristol is closed. |
 | Location Name: TS729 - Gloucester StationLocation Notes: This is currently Gloucester's only station and is right on the edge of the city centre. From here you have good views of all 4 platforms and the old yard at Horton road which is coming back to life thanks to Cotswold Rail.Railway type and traffic FGW passenger services, HSTs, 158s, 150s, 153s, occasional Pacer.
CrossCountry 170s and ATW services also with units.A good place to see specials for rugby matches and other events at the Millenium Stadium. Services between Swindon/Bristol and Cheltenham/Worcester reverse here, except for the CrossCountry Voyagers which pass by on the main line. Cotswold Rail sidings are at the station, so 43s, 47s, 57s, 31s can all be seen. Freight is generally from the North East to South Wales steel or tanks to Westerleigh, 66s and 60s. |
 | Location Name: TS1039 - Grange CourtLocation Notes: Grange Court is a hamlet on the Gloucester - Severn Tunnel Junction line.There was formerly a station here, and the junction for the line to Hereford via Ross-on-Wye. There are still up and down freight loops, but judging by the rust on the rails these are extremely rarely used now. There is a good history and photos of the location on the Grange Court Junction website. Railway type and traffic DMU traffic from South Wales to Gloucester, ATW 158s and 150s, and also CrossCountry 170s working between Cardiff and Nottingham.Some freight, mostly steel, plus the Westerleigh-Robeston 'Murco' tanks. 60s and 66s common, but can be long gaps between workings. Also if the Severn Tunnel is closed, all traffic will be diverted along this route, so weekends can throw up HSTs and other traffic that normally uses the tunnel. |
 | Location Name: TS1201 - Great CheverellLocation Notes: A rural location on the edge of Great Cheverell village, about mid-way between Westbury and Pewsey. Fields adjacent the line are mostly pastureland for sheep and horses. The village is edged by wooded hills on the south, giving a pleasant backdrop to photographs.Railway type and traffic Great Cheverell is on the 'Berks & Hants' route, the ex-GWR main line from Reading to Taunton. In addition to regular West of England HST services, the route sees significant volumes of aggregates traffic from the Mendip quarries at Whatley and Merehead. There is also some traffic to and from Theale near Reading, including a Freightliner aggregates working from South Wales and, when engineering work affects the GWML via Didcot, Class 60-hauled TEA fuel tanks from Robeston refinery. |
 | Location Name: TS728 - HaresfieldLocation Notes: This is a country location just outside the hamlet of Haresfield about 5 miles south of Gloucester on the Bristol to Birmingham line with high speed running.Railway type and traffic Passenger traffic consists mainly of HSTs, Voyagers, Adelantes and Sprinters.There is some freight going to and from Bristol and the south west plus the DRS flasks from Berkeley. Some of the freight traffic use the up and down passing loops. The Murco tanks with a 60 can often be 'looped' here to let DMUs, HSTs and Voyagers pass. But its case of being in the right place at the right time. The timings of the tanks are difficult to predict and often do not run to their set timetables. |
 | Location Name: TS1164 - Haresfield, Bridge FarmLocation Notes: A country location situated to the south of the hamlet of Haresfield, about 2-3 miles from Stonehouse. This is a footpath track crossing a bridge opposite a farm.The bridge crosses the mainline between Bristol and Birmingham also just south is the branch off to Stroud and Swindon. Railway type and traffic The mainline carries half hourly 220/221 voyagers each way and local trains formed of mainly 150/153/158. There are also HST's running to and from Cheltenham Spa and London Paddington.Freight traffic on the line is in the hands of class 60's on fuel trains from Westerleigh to Lindsey and Robeston. Nuclear flask trains are a common occurance from Bridgewater and Berkeley up to Crewe as well as occasional coal traffic in the hands of freightliner 66's/70's, engineers and MOD traffic and also it is a regular route for railtours and special workings. |
 | Location Name: TS1236 - Highbridge and Burnham StationLocation Notes: A 2 platform station located between Taunton and Bristol on the Great Western Main Line.Railway type and traffic Highbridge & Burnham station is served solely by First Great Western, mainly by services on the Taunton to Cardiff route, infrequent HST's to and from London in the morning and late evening too.You can expect to see the following: FGW Class 150/153/158 and HST's, XC Voyagers and HST's. Freight is sparse, but there is a DB Schenker fuel oil train on Tuesday afternoons, a roughly weekly Colas Rail log train and flask traffic to and from Bridgwater, engineers workings are fairly common too. |
 | Location Name: TS1170 - Holton HeathLocation Notes: A small un-manned station on the Waterloo to Weymouth line between Wareham and Hamworthy Railway Stations. Railway type and traffic South West Trains operate services to Weymouth and Waterloo which include non stop and stopping services which are in the hands of 450s and 444s. If you want to capture 444 and 450 numbers here, you will get a fair few in a day.The Wool to Neasdon sand passes through here during the week which is in the hands of a Freightliner class 66. There are also occasional stock movements to and from the Swanage Railway . The odd Serco will pass too. Railtours also operate through here on a regular basis in the summer months to Weymouth and Swanage. |
 | Location Name: TS1035 - Hungerford CommonLocation Notes: Just to the East of Hungerford Station in Berkshire, on the Berks and Hants line.When approaching the common from the station a wonderful view from high up is awarded of the valley, ideal for scenic photography. Walking across and down the common you can get to within a few feet of the tracks where the fence line is generally clear. Walking a few hundred yards to East is a small occupation bridge which allows access to the other side of the track ideal for photography as you can move with the sunlight. Railway type and traffic The line is a double track mainline mainly Turbo units and HST West of England services, from teatime traffic is mostly commuter traffic.Freight traffic is mainly stone to and from the Mendip quarries. |
 | Location Name: TS1037 - Keenes CrossingLocation Notes: An occupation crossing over the Gloucester - Severn Tunnel Junction line on the outskirts of the city of Gloucester. The farm track follows the railway for some distance so there are opportunities to get different angles if required.Update from Dave Smith: August 2016: Beware - this location has changed just recently. The farm is now in new hands, and the new owner will not tolerate people on his land. The gate off the main road is now kept locked at all times,and there is no way to enter or leave via the farm itself, as there was before. As the crossing is part of a public right of way,it's fine to walk to the crossing from the main road,although parking is a major problem. Railway type and traffic CrossCountry and Arriva passenger services worked by 170s, 150s and 158s.Steel trains to/from South Wales in the hands of 60s or 66s. A good place to see the Robeston - Westerleigh Murco tanks at around 10:30 and 18:00 on weekdays. These are usually 60 hauled. With the Cotswold Rail base close by, there are light engine movements, although these can be rather ad-hoc. |
 | Location Name: TS1094 - KembleLocation Notes: A small station on the Swindon to Gloucester line. Railway type and traffic The service is formed of mainly from HSTs, with 158s and 165/166 units thrown in as well! |
 | Location Name: TS1092 - Langley BurrellLocation Notes: A concrete footbridge over the Wootton Bassett to Bristol line near Chippenham. A pleasant rural location on the site of a former level crossing.Railway type and traffic Mostly FGW HSTs on Paddington - Bristol via Bath services. Some DMUs between Swindon and Westbury, plus a small amount of freight. |
 | Location Name: TS244 - Lockleaze FootbridgeLocation Notes: A footbridge crossing the main line between Bristol Temple Meads and Bristol Parkway.Please note: As of September 2016 this foot bridge has been demolished and is no longer available. Railway type and traffic The main line north out of Bristol. Traffic includes cross-country Voyagers, Wessex Trains 150s & 143s, Alphaline and Central Trains liveried 158s.It is also possible to see a variety of freight including MGR and automotive trains from Portbury. |
 | Location Name: TS428 - Lovington, SomersetLocation Notes: A road under bridge approximately 3 miles west of Castle Cary on the Berks and Hants main line.Railway type and traffic Regular First Great Western HSTs and since December 2004 also Class 180 Adelantes.A little freight, notably the 6O92 Exeter - Dollands Moor on Monday morning and the 6V62 Fawley to Tavistock Yard oil on Tuesday and Friday evenings. Occasionally used by daytime engineers trains to / from Westbury. The line is also used by many railtours, and the daily Penzance - Portsmouth Wessex Class 158 doing an out and back working. |
 | Location Name: TS1263 - Maiden NewtonLocation Notes: A small unmanned village station on the Castle Cary to Weymouth line around 9 miles north west of Dorchester. Railway type and traffic The section of line between Maiden Newton and Yeovil Pen Mill is single track, and single line token exchange operates between these two stations.Mainly First Great Western Class 150s, 158s and 153s operating services to Weymouth and Bristol Temple Meads. Occasional charter traffic throughout the year aswell as ECS and light engine charter moves to and from Yeovil Junction and Weymouth operated by Steam and Diesel Traction. There is no booked freight but every now and again the Network Rail Structure Gauging Train makes an appearance. |
 | Location Name: TS180 - Mud Lane CrossingLocation Notes: This is a farmers crossing half way between Nailsea and Yatton.Railway type and traffic The main line between Bristol and the Southwest. Plenty of HSTs, Voyagers, 143s, 158s, 150s etc. Some freight.Steam trains include the Royal Duchy Excursion, The Devonian, and the Riviera Express amongst others. |
 | Location Name: TS731 - Naas Lane, GloucesterLocation Notes: Naas lane, Quedgeley is a public foot crossing situated next to the former Dow Mac Concrete sleeper works(which is now a car import company) and situated on the main Gloucester - Standish junction line.Update March 2010 A travellers camp has appeared just dowm the road from this location. On occasions travellers have been known to hastle and threaten photographers claiming the public crossing is part of their camp! Keep your Wits about you!! Railway type and traffic A usual day at Naas Lane sees:First Great Western: 143, 150, 158, 180 and HSTs Virgin: 220 and 221 voyagers Freight usually consists of class 60s on oil trains to and from Westerleigh. 66's on coal trains to and from Avonmouth/Portbury Docks. DRS traffic runs on an as required basis to the rail heads at Berkeley and Bridgewater usually in the care of class 20s and 37s. Freightliner's twice weekly Cement trains to Cornwall pass through here although run late at night sometimes due to pathing issues run in daylight hours. Cotswold rail loco's can be seen here working out of their base at Gloucester. Weekends in the summer months often see charter trains and diverted traffic due to Severn tunnel being closed. Charters are usually in the hands of class 47 or 67. |
 | Location Name: TS107 - Narroways Junction, BristolLocation Notes: About 2 miles north of Bristol Temple Meads between Stapleton Road and Filton Abbey Wood stations. On the mainline south bound to South West, northbound to London via Bristol Parkway and Wales.Railway type and traffic Cross country, local services and a reasonable amount of freight. Also local workings from the Severn Beach line join the mainline at this location. |
 | Location Name: TS1014 - Newton MeadowsLocation Notes: A scenic, rural, location just west of Bath and only a short walk from the Newton St Loe. This is the main line from Bristol to Bath onto London Paddington or Weymouth.Great views of the open embankment all along the Bath A4 dual carriageway, as well as views of the opposite side from the river Avon footpath. The track passes under the A4 so there are views either side and over the bridge. Kelston House and Park make an elegant backdrop to any photos. Railway type and traffic This busy main line carries FGW HSTs on the Bristol-Paddington route plus the same company's Class 143, 150, 153 and 158 diesel units plying between Bristol and Westbury and points further south. There are also some SWT services between Waterloo and Bristol using Class 159 units.Freight traffic comprises a couple of weekday Freightliners from Bristol to Tilbury and Felixstowe and occasional DBS stone trains from Avonmouth to Westbury and the London area. Weekends often see engineering trains from and to Westbury, variously worked by DBS, Freightliner and Colas. The line also sees weekend diversions when the 'Badminton' route via Bristol Parkway is closed, bringing Welsh steel traffic and, occasonally, Cross Country 'Voyagers' and HSTs. Finally, the route carries a good number of charters visiting Bath and Bristol, including the occasional steam or diesel-hauled VSOE Pullman. |
 | Location Name: TS1274 - Oldfield ParkLocation Notes: Located in the south west of England, Oldfield Park is 2 minutes away from Bath Spa station and 17 from Bristol Temple Meads, with Keynsham bang in the middle. It serves trains to Bristol, Westbury, Gloucester, Cardiff, Portsmouth, Weymouth and Worcester amongst others.There are also 3 footbridges which offer varying degrees of good shots. The best is the single road bridge which takes you over the goods loop and other the best views. The station has one disabled access ramp to each station only. Passengers must use the footbridge to gain access to the other side. Railway type and traffic The passenger trains consist of First Great Western 150, 153, 158 and HSTs, South West trains 158, 159 and (diverted) Cross Country 220/221 Voyager and HSTs. These trains run about every 10 - 15 minutes in each direction.The freight services run in between the vast amount of passenger services. There are many different types of train that pass by including intermodal trains, Engineers, Stone, Steel, Oil (usually diverted), countless light engine moves, other freight and the occasional NR test train. Just to the east of the station (between Oldfield and Bath Spa) is a goods loop that once served the Calvert Binliner. However, since the service was stopped, some trains are placed in the loop to allow other to pass. There are other trains to look out for as well. Many diesel & steam railtours call at Bath Spa, yet miss out Oldfield. All in all, on the freight you can see class 56, 59, 60, 66 and 70 and on the diesel charters 33, 37, 47, 57 and 67 are all used (NOTE: Traction for a tour can change suddenly so be prepared for a surprise) Freight operators include DB Schenker, Freightliner, Colas Rail and GBRf (on an extremely rare basis) all work trains through the area. West Coast Railways, Direct Rail Service and DB Schenker provide the charter traction. |
 | Location Name: TS1150 - Patchway, BristolLocation Notes: Situated on the main line from South Wales to England, just to west of the Bristol Parkway.Railway type and traffic Passenger traffic is First Great Western Class 43 HSTs, classes 143, 150 and 158.Freight is mostly DB Schenker class 66. |
 | Location Name: TS605 - Pilning StationLocation Notes: Situated on the main line from South Wales to England, just to the East of the Severn Tunnel.Railway type and traffic Passenger traffic is handled by HSTs, classes 143, 150 & 158, 180 and, at the weekend, Voyagers.Freight is mostly DB Schenker class 66 on coal, engineers and a steel trains. Freightliner send a Monday to Friday Freightliner through in the morning. Also, 60s on petroleum trains to West Wales. |
 | Location Name: TS1139 - Pilning villageLocation Notes: B4055 road bridge over the main Bristol - South Wales line in Pilning village, about half way between Pilning Station and the Severn Tunnel east portal. Great views in both directions of a variety of traffic accelerating up the gradient from the tunnel or slowing to enter it.Looking west, the M4 'new' Severn Crossing offers an interesting backdrop to pictures. Railway type and traffic FGW HSTs working express passenger services between London and Cardiff / Swansea. Class 143, 150, 158 and 180 DMUs work cross country services mainly between South Wales, Taunton, Southampton and Portsmouth.Freight services are a mix of stone, oil, coal and departmental trains. DBS provide 59s, 66s, and 60s for it's trains, Freightliner coal trains can also been seen-one is now booked for class 70 haulage. There are loops in both directions for holding freight trains. Down trains are often checked here awaiting a path through the Tunnel. This is also a popular railtour route, so summer specials provide a variety of steam and preserved diesel types. Occasional diversions bring North/South cross-country Voyagers and freight. |
 | Location Name: TS472 - PurtonLocation Notes: Located on the banks of the river Severn in Gloucestershire nearest towns are Chepstow and Gloucester.Railway type and traffic This is the main line from Newport - Gloucester and carries local DMU traffic, HSTs and 60s on steel trains. It is also a diversionary route when the severn railway tunnel is closed. |
 | Location Name: TS1100 - Railway Cottages, Chipping SodburyLocation Notes: A bridge over the Great Western Main Line on the outskirts of Chipping Sodbury in South Gloucestershire, around half a mile west of Sodbury Tunnel.Railway type and traffic Mostly HSTs on Paddington - Bristol/South Wales services. Great for the HSTs as linespeed is 120mph here.Some freight to and from Avonmouth and Newport/Cardiff. There is an upside freight loop and on-track plant siding. |
 | Location Name: TS604 - Ram Hill FootbridgeLocation Notes: A footbridge in a quiet countryside location on the main line between Bristol Parkway and Westerleigh Junction.Railway type and traffic Passenger traffic consists of HSTs, Voyagers and classes 143, 150, 158.Freight traffic. A Freightliner each way Mondays to Fridays. Plenty of coal trains to and from Avonmouth / Portbury. 60s on the petroleum trains to South Wales. Engineering trains. Mostly DB Schenker with a few Freightliner 66 turns. |
 | Location Name: TS463 - Salisbury StationLocation Notes: Located in the Cathedral city of Salisbury, the station is on the junction of the Waterloo - Exeter and Bristol - Portsmouth main lines.Railway type and traffic Passenger services include regular South West Trains and Wessex Trains services operated by classes 150/153/158/159/170. SWT depot adjacent to the station provides many empty stock moves. Also regular steam or diesel hauled charters.Freight services are usually hauled by classes 59/60/66 in a variety of liveries. These are fairly frequent and include stone, LPG, freightliner and engineers traffic. |
 | Location Name: TS1140 - Severn Tunnel EastLocation Notes: A roadside view looking down onto the line from above the English portal of the Severn Tunnel.Railway type and traffic FGW HSTs and DMUs plus freight. |
 | Location Name: TS1082 - Sherrington, Wylye ValleyLocation Notes: A bridge close to the village of Sherrington, Wiltshire. Situated on the line from Salisbury to Westbury, about fifteen miles east from Warminster.Railway type and traffic Most of the passenger services on this line are provided by First Great Western using Class 158 units, with a sprinkling of Class 150 and Class 153 units as well. The only other operator is South West Trains who run a handful of services using Class 159s each day.Freight is relatively sparse, mostly stone trains to/from the Mendip Quarries to/from Hamworthy, Fareham, Chichester and Eastleigh, with the occasional oil train from Fawley and regular engineers trains from Westbury to Eastleigh and vice versa. These are mostly in the hands of DB Schenker Class 59s and 66s, with the very occasional Class 60. There are also occasional MOD workings to Warminster and STP movements from Eastleigh Works heading to Bristol/Gloucester of carriages, wagons or multiple units. However, if the lines around Basingstoke are blocked due to engineering works, this can yield diverted Freightliners (usually Saturdays). |
 | Location Name: TS1199 - Southbourne Road Bridge, PokesdownLocation Notes: A bridge on Southbourne Road in Southbourne, Dorset.Railway type and traffic Overlooking the Dorset Line you can see Desiros and Voyagers daily, a few freights weekly.There are also occasional units visiting Bournemouth T+RSMD for repairs and locomotives visiting the Swanage Railway. |
 | Location Name: TS129 - St Andrews Road, BristolLocation Notes: A single platform branch line halt and coal yard located in the Bristol suburb of Avonmouth, approx 3 miles from Bristol city centre on the Severn Beach line.Railway type and traffic First Great Western Class 150's operating to Severn Beach, as well as DB Schenker coal services to Aberthaw Power Station, invariably operated by Class 66's.As of March 2013, the frequent DB Schenker coal trains to and from Didcot Power Station have ceased, due to the Power Station being decommissioned. There is also usually a resident Class 08 shunter which provides variety to the shots. |
 | Location Name: TS506 - Stainswick Lane, ShrivenhamLocation Notes: On the GWML between Didcot Parkway and Swindon.Railway type and traffic First Great Western express services between London, Bristol, South Wales and Cheltenham, 4-5 per hour each way, operated by HSTs and 180s.Freight traffic; power station coal from Avonmouth to Didcot, a daily lunchtime freightliner from Wentloog to Southampton, a daily Binliner from Bath/Bristol to Calvert, there are also Enterprise services and a scrap train from Swindon in the evening but this is not the best location for these evening trains. Non-daily workings include MOD workings from Didcot, empty oil from Theale, various stone trains. Tuesdays and Thursdays are generally the better days for a variety of traffic but there are long gaps between freight workings. |
 | Location Name: TS1101 - Standish JunctionLocation Notes: A rural over bridge crossing the point where the Swindon line splits from the main Bristol-Birmingham route.Railway type and traffic The main Bristol - Birmingham line sees FGW 150s, 158s and Pacers, Cross Country Voyagers and HSTs. There is some reasonably regular freight including coal trains from Avonmouth and the Robeston - Westerleigh 'Murco' tanks.Freight is sparse on the Swindon line, but you will see FGW units and HSTs. |
 | Location Name: TS1070 - Strap Lane, Upton NobleLocation Notes: A rural location mid-way between Witham Friary and Bruton on the Westbury to Taunton line. Strap Lane is the name of a former halt which once served the nearby village of Upton Noble and is near the summit of Brewham Bank, with gradients of 1 in 81 from the west, and 1 in 107 from the east.Railway type and traffic The location sees a regular diet of FGW HSTs on the 'direct' route from Reading to Taunton, plus DMUs (and top-and-tail 67s on Summer Saturdays) on the services to and from Weymouth.Regular daylight freight is now very limited - just ballast from Meldon Quarry to Westbury and PW traffic. Note that the location is west of East Somerset Junction and thus does not see any Mendip stone traffic. The line does, however, get it's fair share of excursion traffic, including loco-hauled extras in connection with the Glastonbury Festival in June. |
 | Location Name: TS1190 - Sydney Gardens, BathLocation Notes: Sydney Gardens is situated in the centre of Bath. It is on the main London - Bristol route.Railway type and traffic FGW HSTs & 158 units can be seen throughout the day passing in both directions. Steam and Diesel hauled specials often pass here.Freight services are limited although there is normally anything between 2 - 4 per day. This includes engineers, oil tanks, stone and sometimes diverted coal trains. |
 | Location Name: TS427 - Taunton, 40 StepsLocation Notes: A metal footbridge spanning the main Taunton to Exeter line close to Taunton town centre and station.Railway type and traffic First Great Western HSTs and Cross Country Voyagers average 1-2 per hour in each direction, XC HSTs are lesser in number, but do turn up daily. FGW 150s and 153s can also be seen, 143s can come through but are very rare.Various movements from Network Rails HOBC depot at Fairwater yard can be seen here, these trains are usually very long, and operate on an almost daily basis, usually top and tailed with FL 66s. Other freight movements are sparse, but DB 66s on oil trains are seen weekly, as is the Colas log train, test trains are also fairly regular. |
 | Location Name: TS688 - Taunton, Allerford Level CrossingLocation Notes: An automatic half-barrier level crossing in a countryside setting - the line is located on the Great Western Main Line near Taunton.Railway type and traffic Frequent Traffic passes this level crossing, mainly HSTs, Virgin Voyagers, Class 158s and Class 57s.The location is a prime spot for Freight workings (around 2 - 3 services per hour during weekdays). A mix of traffic includes Class 66s, 67s, 60s and more! |
 | Location Name: TS1050 - The Bushes, Whitham FriaryLocation Notes: A field entrance next to the GW main line running between Westbury and Taunton. The junction from the Mendip Quarry of Merehead is a mile or so to the west.Railway type and traffic A busy location on the GW main line with a staple diet of cross country DMU services as well as First Great Western HSTs and sometimes loco-hauled services.The main freight flow is the stone trains to and from the Mendip quarry at Merehead. These are hauled by classes 59, 60 and 66. |
 | Location Name: TS474 - ThingleyLocation Notes: This location is west of Chippenham Wiltshire and is the second road bridge west of the disused cord of Thingley Junction.Railway type and traffic This is the Great Western main line from Paddington to the Wales and the West. Plenty of HSTs and freight with a sprinkling of DMUs. |
 | Location Name: TS1273 - ThornfordLocation Notes: A road over railway bridge next to the small Thornford Halt on the Dorchester West to Yeovil Pen Mill line, situated around a mile outside the village of Thornford and Yetminster.Railway type and traffic Traffic is mainly First Great Western Class 150s, 158s and 153s, with First Great Western HSTs starting to operate along the line on summer Saturdays as of 2014.Steam and Diesel Specials operate throughout the year with occasional test trains. The nearby Yeovil Railway Centre services steam locomotives on railtours to Weymouth, so ECS movements from Weymouth including light engine moves will operate along this line to and from Weymouth and Yeovil. |
 | Location Name: TS1009 - Tredington Level CrossingLocation Notes: An automatic level crossing on the Birmingham-Bristol main line north of Cheltenham.Railway type and traffic Passenger services in the hands of Cross Country Voyagers, 170s and 158s, plus the occasional 150.Freight consists of DB Schenker coal services from Avonmouth to Midlands power stations, North East - South Wales steel services, fuel tanks, etc. Also some military traffic, and DRS nuclear flask workings. A good day might see several class DBS 60s, and a FL70, breaking the Shed monopoly. |
 | Location Name: TS1011 - Twerton TunnelLocation Notes: The location is an over bridge carrying a green lane over the Bath to Bristol line a short distance from the western portal of Twerton Tunnel. The spot is about 2 miles from the centre of Bath. Railway type and traffic Traffic is mainly HSTs on the Bristol Temple Meads to Paddington route and class 143, 150, 153 and 158 diesel units on the route to Westbury and other points south.The line carries a good number of loco-hauled charter services to Bath, including the atractive VSOE, en-route to and from Bristol for stabling. Regular freight includes the weekday Bath and Bristol 'Binliner', coal to Westbury cement works, weekly fuel oil to St Philip's Marsh depot and ballast from Machen quarry to Westbury. Other freight is often diverted this way at weekends (including 6B33, the 'Murco' tanks from Theale and Didcot coal). |
 | Location Name: TS702 - Upwey StationLocation Notes: Upwey is a small station, on the steep climb out of Weymouth, is on the northern out-skirts of Weymouth.Railway type and traffic Upwey sees South West Train class 442s, (Going off lease in January to February 2007) 450s and the occasional 444. First Great Western mostly operate 150s to Weymouth. They sometimes have five coach trains which consist of a 158, 150 and a 153.There are frequent steam charters to Weymouth and Upwey is a good place to see them working hard. The climb out of Weymouth is one of the more long and steep grades in the UK. All main line steam to Weymouth is serviced at Yeovil Junction. There is no booked freight traffic to the town. |
 | Location Name: TS116 - Westbury StationLocation Notes: Westbury station is just off the main line from London to Exeter via Reading and Taunton. There are avoiding lines so a lot of passenger and freight traffic passes to the south of the station out of view.Railway type and traffic Westbury is a busy junction with a staple diet of cross country DMU services as well as First Great Western HSTs and sometimes loco-hauled services.There is a reasonable amount of freight to and from the yards to the south west of the station. The main freight flows are stone trains to and from the large quarries in the area. These are hauled by classes 59, 60 and 66. |
 | Location Name: TS1138 - WesterleighLocation Notes: Single track branch that comes off the Birmingham to Bristol Branch at Yate, loops under the main Great Western mainline and runs into the Murco Oil Storage Terminal at Westerleigh.Railway type and traffic This is a freight only line that at present (Jan 2010) sees two heavy tank trains per day. One inbound, one outbound. They usually are reliable but can run early, late or cancel at short notice! Patience and a wait is often required!! Generally on a Saturday the outbound train leaves about 10:00-10:15 and the inbound is at the railhead by 12:20.Power is provided by double head 66s or eratically by dwindling class 60s. Anybody with a good camera can shoot trains coming over the top of the branch if they are down at the village foot crossing whilst they are waiting. The viaduct carrying the Great Western Mainline is just in front of you and a good zoom will capture HSTs, Sprinters, Freightliner and DBS 66s passing. |
 | Location Name: TS1020 - Wickwar southLocation Notes: About 2 miles south of the village of Wickwar in Gloucestershire, on the former Midland route between Bristol and Gloucester.Railway type and traffic Passenger traffic consists of Cross Country class 220 and 221 (Voyager) sets and FGW class 143, 150, 153 and 158 DMUs on local services.Freight includes Class 66-hauled coal from Portbury to the Midlands and Class 60s on 'Murco' bogie fuel tanks for the nearby Westerleigh terminal. When the Severn Tunnel is closed for maintenance, FGW HSTs on London-South Wales services use this route to cross the Severn at Gloucester. Steel traffic may also be seen on weekend diversions. |
 | Location Name: TS1233 - Winterbourne ViaductLocation Notes: On Winterbourne Down to the North West of Bristol. The location offers two great views of the viaduct and the approaching embankment.1) Face on view from the footpath along the Frome Valley Walk. 2) Oblique view from Huckford Lane off the A432 Badminton Road. Railway type and traffic Passenger traffic consists of HSTs, Voyagers and classes 143, 150, 158.Freight traffic. A Freightliner each way Mondays to Fridays. Plenty of coal trains to and from Avonmouth / Portbury. 60s on the petroleum trains to South Wales. Engineering trains. Mostly DB Schenker with a few Freightliner 66 turns. |
 | Location Name: TS1213 - Worle StationLocation Notes: Worle is an unstaffed two platform station on the outskirts of Weston-super-Mare and located on the Taunton - Bristol mainline.Railway type and traffic Mainly XC Voyagers and FGW DMU's, XC and FGW HST's are also commonplace.Freight is sparse, mainly consisting of a DB Schenker fuel oil train, and a weekly Colas rail log train, Network Rail test and HOBC trains also make appearances. |
 | Location Name: TS1198 - WSR, Bishops Lydeard StationLocation Notes: Bishops Lydeard is the southern terminus of the West Somerset Railway (WSR), Britain's longest privately owned railway, which runs to Minehead.The station is approximately 7 miles north of the town of Taunton. Railway type and traffic A 17 miles preserved railway with 10 excellently restored stations.Mostly ex BR/GWR steam, plus a Class 115 unit, guests are frequent, especially at galas, and the Diesel and Electric Preservation Group, based on the WSR at Williton has a good collection of diesel hydraulics which can often be seen operating on peak Saturdays. |
 | Location Name: TS639 - Yeovil Junction StationLocation Notes: A station in the village of Stoford, on the London to Exeter line, situated outside the town of Yeovil.Railway type and traffic Passenger services are usually formed of South West Trains Class 159s, and these form the vast majority of services through the station.When First Great Western Berks & Hants line diversions occur, Yeovil Junction is frequently used as a diversionary route. Main line steam excursions and route learning trains make reasonably frequent trips through the station. Network Rail track machines and SWT units can also be seen stabled at the station. There is also a railway centre at the station, there are currently 4 engines at the centre, special events are listed on the centres website. |
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All information contained within this is site is © Trainspots. The images used on this site remain the property of the original photographer, as credited at the top of the page, and are used with their kind permission.
The information on these pages is supplied for the benefit of railway enthusiasts who carry out a harmless hobby, and through the medium of photography and video, actually promote the railway industry. Railway enthusiasts can also act as eyes and ears against railway vandalism, and as such should surely be encouraged to do so by the supply of adequate information such as is found on this website.
This site has been created to assist railway photographers in their travels around the country. It is based on the personal knowledge and experience. No liability can be held against the web site or its contributions for incorrect information. Trainspots will endeavor to check all information and corrections will be accepted and posted accordingly.
Advice as to the locations general environment is given as a guide on each page. This information is a GUIDE only. ALWAYS be careful with your equipment, Trainspots can not be held responsible for your personal security. Avoid leaving your property on display for all to see, be aware of your surroundings at all times. There are, sadly, people who will not think twice about trying to steal your equipment.
Trainspots DOES NOT condone trespass and none of the information on this site should be taken as a right to trespass. To the best of our knowledge all locations are publicly accessible areas, where they are not contact information will be given to the appropriate authority for permission to be obtained.
The content of this site is created and intended for all age ranges but the content of sites linked from this site are not subject to the same intentions. Trainspots will attempt to check links for validity but as time passes and the site grows this will not always be possible. Broken, or indeed updates to, links should be submitted to the editor for inclusion in the updates. All links external to the Trainspots site are opened in a new browser window.
Please enjoy this guide to UK Railway Photographic Locations.
The information on these pages is supplied for the benefit of railway enthusiasts who carry out a harmless hobby, and through the medium of photography and video, actually promote the railway industry. Railway enthusiasts can also act as eyes and ears against railway vandalism, and as such should surely be encouraged to do so by the supply of adequate information such as is found on this website.
This site has been created to assist railway photographers in their travels around the country. It is based on the personal knowledge and experience. No liability can be held against the web site or its contributions for incorrect information. Trainspots will endeavor to check all information and corrections will be accepted and posted accordingly.
Advice as to the locations general environment is given as a guide on each page. This information is a GUIDE only. ALWAYS be careful with your equipment, Trainspots can not be held responsible for your personal security. Avoid leaving your property on display for all to see, be aware of your surroundings at all times. There are, sadly, people who will not think twice about trying to steal your equipment.
Trainspots DOES NOT condone trespass and none of the information on this site should be taken as a right to trespass. To the best of our knowledge all locations are publicly accessible areas, where they are not contact information will be given to the appropriate authority for permission to be obtained.
The content of this site is created and intended for all age ranges but the content of sites linked from this site are not subject to the same intentions. Trainspots will attempt to check links for validity but as time passes and the site grows this will not always be possible. Broken, or indeed updates to, links should be submitted to the editor for inclusion in the updates. All links external to the Trainspots site are opened in a new browser window.
Please enjoy this guide to UK Railway Photographic Locations.