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Written by Jonathan Lewis - 28 Sep 2006
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Location notes
Blea Moor, just north of the Ribblehead Viaduct, is one of the 'classic' location on the Settle and Carlisle line and also home to one of the most remote signal boxes in the UK. Many photos are possible in this remote area (including trains on the famous Ribblehead viaduct) depending on the time of day. This location is about 1km from the nearest place with Road Access and is a walk across Blea Moor Common under the viaduct.
Railway type and traffic
Sprinters on passenger services about every 2 hours. There are regular charter trains along the line.
Freight is mainly Coal, operated by DB Schenker and Freightliner, as well as GBRf and DB Schenker Gypsum trains to New Biggin.
Environment
It really is the middle of nowhere! Weather can change very fast, so come prepared bearing in mind its at least a 10 minute walk back to the car/nearest station.
Road directions
Take B6479 if coming from the south which links to the A65 around Settle.

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Blea Moor map co-ordinates
Parking
Park in Ribblehead and walk!
Public transport
Train service to Ribblehead around every 2 hours check times before travelling. Not much further to walk from the station than the nearest car park.

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Amenities
There is a pub in Ribblehead.
Accommodation
The pub in Ribblehead also offers a Bed and Breakfast service.
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.
Blea Moor

Googly map
Streetmap links
Blea Moor general view map
Blea Moor close up map

Windows Local Live Link - image quality may vary
Blea Moor



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Railway Gen Group
North West Gen
Photographic notes
Many photos are possible in the area depending on time of day and direction of train.
The line is pretty much North-South at this point so Northbounds are normally slightly into the sun. Walk able on both sides of track to find a suitable location with a few over and under bridges in the area leading up to the Blea Moor Tunnel.


General views - All photographs © Jonathan Lewis unless otherwise stated
Fig 1 - Looking north


Fig 1 - Looking north

Southbound, mid afternoon shot.

Fig 2 - Looking south


Fig 2 - Looking south

Northbound, late afternoon shot.

Fig 3 - Looking south


Fig 3 - Looking south

Early morning, southbound.

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