Introduction to the Steam Railway Walks

Although most of us regret the impact that Dr Beaching's axe had on railways in the 1960's, its effect was not all negative. Had not the closures occurred to the extent that they did, the many heritage railways that we cherish today might well have been modernised using electric or diesel traction, colour-light signalling and updated buildings. Of course that is good in itself, but we may have lost forever the old-world atmosphere that today's heritage railways seek to recreate.

'Great Western 4566' on the Severn Valley Railway

 It is for those who enjoy both walking in the countryside and visiting these railways that these walks are presented. Each walk follows the chosen railway as close as possible while using public rights of way or permissive paths. The opportunity this gives for watching and photographing trains should be welcomed by those who feel restricted by like-minded enthusiasts obstructing each other on station platforms!
 It is assumed that you will travel on the railway at the outset, then walk back following my directions. The risk of missing the last train back is thus avoided, which might otherwise be the case if the walk came first. However, you may on occasions find it more convenient to walk first; that's ok, as long as you allow plenty of time!
 In most cases it is possible to arrive at the railway by public transport, some more easily than others. Advice is given for this in the preamble to each walk.  Many heritage railways have their own car parks, and these are usually free of charge. Alternative car parks are suggested where this is thought helpful.
 Since the railways do not as a rule run trains every single day, it is well-worth arming yourself with an up-to-date timetable, either through the post or via the railway's web site. Again, advise for this is in each preamble. As well as timetable information, each railway provides details of special events - which usually occur at weekends - and facilities such as refreshment rooms, picnic areas, bookshops and, perhaps most usefully, toilets. They will also say whether some trains are diesel-hauled, and if some days are diesel-only, which may not be to your liking!
 Railway web sites often feature the latest news items: usually good news, but very occasionally bad. For example, it is not unknown for embankments to sustain damage due to adverse weather conditions, necessitating temporary closure of parts of the railway. And so to avoid disappointment you are well advised to look at the chosen railway's web site before setting out.
 Many trains offer on-board refreshments, but your journey may be too short to enjoy this to the full. And since these railways depend to a great extent on volunteers, which can be in short supply, you may find that refreshments are not available on some trains and stations when you most need them. In any case they cannot be expected after the last train has departed!
 It is also worth-while having the appropriate Ordnance Survey map at your side, just in case you deviate from the described route - by intention or accident!  I have on occasions included compass bearings within the text. You may find these helpful; for example where your destination is a stile or gate beyond the brow of a hill. So hopefully you will include a compass in your rucksack when on these walks - which in any case you may find helpful when in the countryside on other occasions.
 Finally, I hope you enjoy this opportunity for 'steaming up and walking down' as much as I did!