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Written by Jason Rodhouse - 28 Sep 2006
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Location notes
Northampton is a well served station on the 'Northampton loop' of the West Coast Main Line.
Railway type and traffic
The station sees mainly multiple units running between London Euston and Birmingham New Street on a regular basis. Some Virgin services also pass through.
Most WCML freight traffic uses the loop, including DB Schenker and Freightliner workings.
Environment
The station is often quite busy, and it is probably best to avoid wearing Peterborough United football tops here!
Road directions
Northampton is off the M1, junctions 15 or 16 depending on your direction of travel.

From the M1, Junction 16:
Head towards Northampton on the dual carriageway. You will come to a large roundabout where you`ll see a cinema complex to the right. Carry straight on into 'Jimmy`s end' and basically keep going. You will pass Beacon Bingo, and the 'Saints' rugby stadium on the right. Keep going, the station is not much further. You`ll come to some traffic lights where the 'Thomas a Becket' is to the right, and you should see a BP garage just ahead. The railway station is just the other side of the bridge on the left hand side.

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Northampton 'Castle' Station map co-ordinates
Parking
There are a few bays that allow free parking for a short while, but if you plan to stay for a while, it`s best to pay and display! There is room for many, many cars...
Public transport
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Amenities
The station has recently refurbished toilets, and also has a small shop to purchase snacks, and also a small cafe. For those with larger appetites, the nearby 'Super Sausage cafeteria' is ideal.
Sun Compass
Sun Compass using Suncalc by brought to you by Vladimir Agafonkin:
It might be necessary to adjust the time to suit your visit, this link should open with the current day.
Northampton 'Castle' Station

Googly map
Streetmap links
Northampton 'Castle' Station general view map
Northampton 'Castle' Station close up map

Windows Local Live Link - image quality may vary
Northampton 'Castle' Station



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Photographic notes
Note: To gain access to the platforms you now need to be in possesion of a valid ticket, as barriers are in operation at the station.

The station offers a number of photographic opportunities. As well as the units which usually use three of the platforms, freight also passes through the station. The station also has bays which can often be home for a loco or wagons overnight. Units also stable at the far side of the station.
Other shots include the yard, although this is not as busy as it once used to be.
If you leave the station, you will notice an overflow car park under the road bridge. If you pass under the bridge, good shots can be taken over the fence.
Another alternative shot can be had if you cross the bridge, and head into the park. From here you can get shots of trains crossing over the canal.


General views - All photographs © Jason Rodhouse unless otherwise stated
Fig 1 - Looking south


Fig 1 - Looking south

This shot is taken from under the bridge, in the car park. It is not necessary to be on the station for this shot.

Fig 2 - Looking south - Image © Jason Rodhouse


Fig 2 - Looking south - <i>Image © Jason Rodhouse</i>


Fig 3 - Looking north - Image © Jason Rodhouse


Fig 3 - Looking north - <i>Image © Jason Rodhouse</i>


Fig 4 - Looking south


Fig 4 - Looking south


Fig 5 - Looking north - Image © Jason Rodhouse



Fig 5 - Looking north - <i>Image © Jason Rodhouse</i>


Fig 6 - Station bays



Fig 6 - Station bays


Fig 7 - Looking north - Image © Jason Rodhouse



Fig 7 - Looking north - <i>Image © Jason Rodhouse</i>


Fig 8 - Park Shot



Fig 8 - Park Shot

To get to this shot in the park, there are steps leading up to the bridge (signposted 'To Northampton Saints'). Turn right here, and look for the 'Castle' pub. From the pub, and facing the railway, turn right and follow the footpath to the location.
Another way to get to the location is from St.James retail park. At the end of the car park, there is a well known fast food outlet. Beyond here you will see a bridge over the stream. Cross the bridge, and follow the footpath to the left. You will pass underneath two low bridges, mind your head, and then choose your spot!

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