Monday, July 31, 2006

somerset and dorset lives!






Some scenes from the magnificent restoration project on the Bath extension of the Somerset and Dorset Railway, now rebuilding this famous route from Midsomer Norton towards Chilcompton. The eventual aim is to restore the route between Bath and Bournemouth as a long-term project. Posted by Picasa

Sunday, July 30, 2006

exmoor delight





Some views of the superb Lynton and Barnstaple Railway, gradually rising from the ashes since its crazy closure in 1935. It now runs between the wonderfully restored Woody Bay station to the temporary halt at Killington Lane, reached in the last few months.

This line will become the main tourist attraction on Exmoor as it expands in both directions. The L&B's associate company, Exmoor Associates, already owns other sections of trackbed and the station site at Chelfham, closer to Barnstaple.

When completed the route will run from Barnstaple to Lynton using replicas of the original charming L&B engines. In the meantime it is a sheer pleasure to travel the mile or so behind steam, with views of Exmoor on both sides. Posted by Picasa