Taunton to Bristol

Taunton to Bristol and Puriton branch

Taunton

Below, courtesy of Google Maps and Google Earth are views of Taunton.
You can zoom in and out and pan as you wish.
The map view gives a very good idea of the recent track layout.

4593 stands at the east end of Taunton in 1963. Copyright Mike Roach

Western Stalwart was brought into service on the 1st August 1962 and withdrawn less than twelve years later in April 1974. It met the cutters torch on the 24th February 1975 Copyright John Cornelius

Taunton 47297 heads away from Taunton with ballast that almost certainly originated at Meldon 19th June 1984. Copyright Ron Kosys

A nightime scene at Taunton as 45140 is ready to leave with the 19.35 Exeter to Cardiff, the 1C74 on the 6th December 1982. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Creech Paper Mill & Creech Junction.

This map courtesy of the National Museum of Scotland comes from the 25" OS map. (Non-Commercial use)To the left are the lines to Taunton whilst to the right the metals head for Cogload Junction for Bristol and Westbury. The Chard branch heads south. Alongside the branch can be seen the disused Chard canal. The Creech Paper Mill is still a prominent feature on the south side of the main line here and has been converted for use by Industrial units. There was a siding serving the Mill off the Chard branch although the Chard branch closed to passengers in 1962 the signal box remained in use to serve the siding and goods traffic to Thornfalcon until 1964.

A wonderful view of Creech Paper Mill showing the main line crossing this view diagonally and the Chard branch heading off the top of the photograph.. Also of note is the siding serving the paper mill. The Chard branch crosses the river Tone by means of Five Arches bridge, down stream from this the cousre of the Chard Canal can be seen making a crossing. Chard Junction signalbox was just off this view bottom left. This view from the Dave Duke Collection.

Creech Paper Mill. A photograph from the collection of Dave Duke.

Dave Duke writes :- At one time Creech paper Mills which stood at the end of Mill Lane was the main employer in the area, today there are a number of different businesses based in and around the old buildings.
As a child I can remember smoke billowing from its top - the chimney was removed in the 1980's.
I also remember seeing two RAF Harrier jets using it for for what I believe was target practice runs - s they appeared for a third time, I was excited at the sight of a RAF Hunter jet following them down.

Also see - About Paper Mills http://www.creechstmichael.net/about/papwww.creechstmichael.net/about/paper-miller-mill

Creech St Michael Three miles from Taunton
Closed 5th October 1964

This view of Creech St Michael in dual track days comes courtesy of the Dave Duke Collection. Note the chimney of Creech Paper mil in the background.

Creech St Michael 1st October 1966 Copyright Mike Roach

Creech St Michael in four track days. This station opened on 13th August 1928 had to be completely rebuilt on the quadrupling of the line in 1931. In the distance is the chimney of he Creech Paper Mills. From the Dave Duke Collection.

Flower gardens at Creech St Michael. From the David Duke Collection.

Site of Creech St Michael Halt as 1015 Western Champion heads the Minehead to Chester Saturday 6th September 2014 Copyright Roger Geach

The 08:55 Newton Abbot Hackney Yd to Abergavenny Up sidings Log train. This appears to be a one-off. (when was the last time we saw a loaded log train? ) 19th January 2022. Copyright Bill Elston.

* For details of Cogload box and also of Creech Water Troughs please see our Taunton - Westbury section

Cogload Junction (Views inside Cogload Signalbox in the Taunton to Westbury section)

Cogload box complete with platelayers hut and outside toilet on 9th April, 1980. Copyright Roger Winnen

A down HST from the Bristol direction approaches Cogload junction signalbx. Cogload Flyover is just visible above the HST; 26th March 1986. Copyright Paul Barlow.

Cogload Jct Box 25th May 1987 Note canal bank & pillbox. Copyright Roger Winnen

The Moorswater cement passing Cogload Junction at 08.55 on the 18th September 2019 Copyright William Elston.

66414 brings the HOBC over the flyover and down to the junction with the Berks and Hants. Cogload 15th June 2020 Copyright Bill Elston

Cogload junction, the line passing over the girder bridge is, left to right Bristol to Taunton. The lines passing under the bridge are to and from Westbury. 9th October, 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Cogload, The locomotive has passed the summit of the line at the bridge and is accelerating down the bank as we come to the bridge. Note the home signal for the up main towards Westbury. 14th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

Cogload. With the tail of the train just passing over the bridge the double track route to and from Westbury and paddington can be seen passing under the bridge whereas on the far left the up main to Bristol heads NE to pass under the distant bridge which is just before Durston station site. 14th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

Cogload Signalbox looking prim and proper on the 14th August 1978, Courtesy the Graham Bowden Collection Copyright

Sadly a final picture of Cogload box, disused and badly damaged. One wonders who the vandals were who trespassed on the main line to smash the windows were, they must have very small minds! Note the concrete pillbox behind, part of the WW2 fortifications. 29th May 1987 Copyright Roger Winnen

Major Engineering work at Cogload. Many thanks to Bill Elston for his coverage.

Cogload Junction Possession 1 A wealth of detail in this view from Charlton Bridge. 11th November 2019. Copyright Bill Elston

70805 on ballast spreading duties. 11th November 2019. Copyright Bill Elston.

Cogload Junction Possession 3 Is this a stripped down Class 142 Bill asks?? 11th November 2019. Copyright Bill Elston

Cogload Junction Possession 4 66504 waiting its turn at East Lyng - one of about three trains waiting. 11th November 2019. Copyright Bill Elston

A heritage DMU heading for Bristol for Taunton has passed the Cogload flyover which takes the down Bristol - Taunton line over the metals of the main line towards London. It will, very soon after it has passed under this bridge pass the site of Duston station. A lovely clear shot. The date is 7th July 1984 Copyright Mike Roach

Cogload at Coleford Museum
Cogload Signalbox was rescued and taken to the Railway Museum at Coleford in the Forest of Dean. On the 6th July 1997 the CRS organised a coach trip to visit the Dean Forest Railway and called in at the Coleford Railway Museum as part of a grand day out.

Coleford Railway Museum. 6th June 1997. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Cogload Jct Box at Coleford Rly Museum. Taken on a CRS visit 6th July 1997. Copyright Roger Winnen

Inside Cogload box at Coleford Museum 6th June 1997. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Inside Cogload box - re-sited to Coleford Museum. 6th June 1997. Copyright Roger Winnen

The CRS party at Coleford Museum 6th July 1997. How many can you name?. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Durston Five and three quarter miles from Taunton
Closed 5th October 1964

Durston station while still open but with less than a month to go. Picture taken on the 9th September 1964 - Copyright Mike Roach.

Durston again on the same day - 9th September 1964. The original main line, later the branch to Lyng and Athelney, where it joined the main line was served from the far side of the island platform. The 71 lever signalbox closed on 6th September 1965 along with the branch to join the current main line at Athelney. Copyright Mike Roach

Durston --- On the 6th June 1986 on a CRS minibus excursion we found the access road to the former up platform available so we walked down it to view the scene staying strictly outside the fence. There was evidence of the up platform and the waiting shelter remained. Across the main line can be seen the site of the former goods yard area - the line to Lyng and Athelney headed away to the right of the large tree trunk in the foreground. Copyright Roger Winnen

Stathe is about five miles south of Bridgwater. Copyright John Cornelius

Bridgwater Eleven and a half miles from Taunton

Below, courtesy of Google Maps and Google Earth are views of Bridgwater.
You can zoom in and out and pan as you wish.
The map view gives a very good idea of the recent track layout.

Bridgewater Station exterior on the 14th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

What a spectacle Bridgwater station by night! Caught on the 2nd of January 1996 by Roger Winnen

Bridgwater station looks good, welcoming! 2nd January 1996 Copyright Roger Winnen

Until 1967 there was a branch to the docks the metals of this joined into the extreme left. This branch closed in 1967, however the remnants of the branch are used within the yard area as a siding where Nuclear Fuel containers are transhipped road to rail and vice versa. . Copyright John Cornelius

D 828 Magnificent went to traffic on the 19th October 1960 and was withdrawn on 28th May 1971. It finally met its end being cut up at Swindon on the 7th April 1972. Copyright John Cornelius

It is the 8th November 1975 as a Peak heads west out of Bridgwater station. note the bay platform on the left of this picture. Copyright Roger Winnen.

An up train awaits the 'right away' at Bridgwater on 8th November, 1975. Copyright Roger Winnen

Passengers for a down service enjoy the show as a 31 propels a van train into the yard at Bridgwater 14th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

A 'Peak' hurries the Taunton to Birmingham through Bridgwater on the 14th April 1982. Copyright Roger Winnen

A view looking back from an up service departing Bridgwater on 9th October, 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen N.B. The line bearing away to the right this side of the station serves the Nuclear loading siding and goods lines to the Fertilizer Depot.

141009b Just beyond Bridgwater station is the Nuclear train loading point. The line to the extreme left once ran down to Bridgwater Docks - this was operated by, amongst others 1338 - also seen at Bleadon and Uphill Railway Museum. Copyright Roger Winnen

Hey up, what's this? A '31' arrives with a solitary tanker.Bridgwater 14th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

Bridgwater yard on the 14th April 1982 as a class 31 draws a tank along towards the goods shed at the far right. Copyright Roger Winnen

The 31 continues shunting the yard as a down 'Peak' hauled service passes by. 14th April 1982 Copyright Roger Winnen

The 'flask train' at Bridgwater 21st March 2023 Bill Elston

Nuclear Flask train at Bridgwater (1) 21st March 2023 Copyright Bill Elston.

Nuclear Flask train at Bridgwater (2) 21st March 2023 Copyright Bill Elston.

Nuclear Flask train at Bridgwater (3) 21st March 2023 Copyright Bill Elston.

Nuclear Flask train at Bridgwater (4) 21st March 2023 Copyright Bill Elston.

Nuclear Flask train at Bridgwater (5) 21st March 2023 Copyright Bill Elston.

Nuclear Flask train at Bridgwater (6) 21st March 2023 Copoyright Bill Elston.

Bridgwater Freight Yard. 20th September 2023. Copyright Guy Vincent.

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The Bridgwater Docks Branch line

The Corporation of Bridgwater built a tramway from the station to wharves (later known as Clink Yard) on the north side of the River Parrett; this was opened in 1845 and worked by horses.

By 1867 the railway which had taken over the tramway in 1859 rebuilt it for locomotive operation. In 1871 the railway was extended across the river Parratt to Bridgewater Docks which formed a very useful transhipment point to both sea going ships and to barges on the Taunton and Bridgwater canal. Due to flat terrain on which Bridgwater stands all road crossings were made on the level.

On 27th June 1954 a new connection was made from Clink Yard to the former Somerset and Dorset Joint Railway station to allow goods traffic to reach that station following the closure of that line's Bridgwater branch Bridgwater North station had closed to passengers on the 1st December 1952 The connection to the stations goods yard made in June 1954 survived in use until Bridgwater North yard closed to goods traffic with effect from 2nd November 1964.

The metals to Clink sidings closed in November 1965, the remainder of the branch closed on 2nd January 1967.
We don't have many pictures of the docks branch as it had been largely recovered by the time Roger Winnen visited. If anybody would like to contribute to our collection we would be most grateful.

A simplified sketch plan of the Bridgwater Docks branch which was, allowing for curvature, just about one mile long. Use of Google Earth and Street views will prove of considerable value in tracing the course of this line. Parrett bridge is still there as are the docks areas, the docks now have no rail access but the canal to Taunton is still there.

By the 8th November 1975 the branch had been cut back to the Bath Road level crossing. This section has since been further trunkated and now forms the connection to the Nuclear flask loading/unloading facility. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A view down the River Parrett showing, in the distance the Parrett bridge which carried rail traffic onwards to Bridgwater Docks. This view 8th November 1975. Copyright Roger Winnen

A close up of Parrett Bridge on 8th November 1975. The bridge was of an unusual design that allowed it move so that ships could pass upstream at high tide. In operation the first part of the bridge was rolled aside and then the remaining section was pulled clear into the space vacated by the first. A new road bridge now spans the river alongside Parrett bridge which remains fixed and serves as a footway crossing. Copyright Roger Winnen

A recent picture of the bridge was taken by Chris Osment. With reference to the picture above a view from further away and prior to the building of the road bridge one can see that we are looking at the section of the bridge which was rolled back. Whether the background to this piece of industrial heritage has improved or not we'll leave the viewer to contemplate. Copyright Chris Osment

Dunball Halt and Wharfs Fourteen Miles from Taunton
Closed 5th October 1964 Dunball Wharf Closed 19th March 1962

Dunball Wharf on the River Parrett and sidings were provided here at an early date, mainly to handle coal shipped across from Wales. A station was opened where the sidings joined the main line in 1873. The down (southbound) platform was situated opposite the sidings; whereas the up platform was on the south side of the Kings Sedgemoor Drain, a man-made water course that drains the nearby moors. The sidings served not only the wharf but also the Portland Cement and Blue Lias Lime works which were situated on the down side of the line - the siding crossed the main line on the level being under the control of an adjacent signal box.

The station was unstaffed from 6 November 1961 and was closed on 5 October 1964. There are no visible remains.

Huntspill and the Puriton branch (See map above)

Huntspill Level Signalbox - out in the wilds, controlling access to the Puriton branch which served the Puriton Ordnance factory. 1970 Copyright Chris Osment.

Huntspill – there were three (as far as I can tell) sidings, connected together at each end, running very roughly parallel to the main line. In effect the eastern-most one was the branch ‘running line’. The SB was at the north end of the sidings, but at the south end there was a 2-lever GF which controlled the connection between the middle and west-most siding. This was padlocked and the key kept in the SB. Quite why this GF was deemed necessary, whereas the connection off the branch ‘running line’ was just a hand-lever, baffles me. Anyway, picture below – I suspect that this is looking east with the sidings behind it.

At the south end there was a 2-lever GF which controlled the connection between the middle and west-most siding. I suspect that this is looking east with the sidings behind it. !970 Copyright Chris Osment

Puriton Branch About 16 miles from Taunton at Huntspill

The munitions factory at Puriton needed a plentiful daily water supply of several million gallons, its location on Kings Sedgemoor was therefore ideal.
The factory required only the raw materials, it generated high pressure steam for heating and production purposes having its own coal fired electric power station though this could be supplemented as required by supplies from Shepton Mallet and Portishead power stations. Eventually the national grid was utilised. Housing for workers was built at Woolavington and hostels for single workers near Dunball station.

The factory was connected to the GWR by a private, 2' 6" branch line and sidings and used its own locomotive. This was used both for supplies, such as acid in tanker wagons from ICI and coal for the power station, and for distribution of the finished product. At some stage this line was converted to standard gauge, the sidings being known as Hunstpill. Puriton taking the name from the origin and destination of the short 60 chain branch.

The route of the new M5 cut across the branch and to maintain services a bridge was constructed over the motorway. The web master (KJ) can remember back in the 1970's being driven along the motorway just as an 08 shunter crossed heading towards the works - alas, he no camera!

For research purposes a visit to Google Earth and a search of the area particularly if you 'turn the clock back' will prove rewarding. You can at least follow the track bed and observe a set of points within the now closed factory.

Royal Ordnance loco number 2 built by Barclay about to cross over the M5 circa 1000 on a Thursday morning 27th October 1987, with loaded VEA wagons, and an ex LMS brake van. Once over the motorway, on the down grade to the exchange sidings, the train stopped, loco uncoupled - and on control of the LMS brake van handbrake, the two loaded box vans were gravitation shunted into the exchange sidings where a class 47 was waiting. Copyright Paul Stanford

For pictures of this bridge taken in 2011 please scroll down.

Kj commented that as previously mentioned he had seen an 08 on the branch, a pure chance whilst passing under on the M5 at 70+ (He wasn't driving, but unfortunately had no camera). To which Paul adds That is interesting Keith about your observation of the class 08 - one used to work each day at Bridgwater in the 70s. I meant to say with the shot I took, which I sent a few mins yes ago, Puriton rail traffic ceased December 1990 and the traffic was lifted Autumn 1996, except for the piece over the motorway bridge - I'm told it's still there!
Robert Lindley advises us that both Barclay shunters are in good health and on the West Somerset railway.

The above is a satellite view of the Puriton works north east of the village of Puriton which also shows the bridge over the M5 and the location of the main line connection. Use zoom and pan to explore the branch and see the short section of track over the M5 bridge. Courtesy of Google Earth

One of the Barclay shunters, ex Putiton looking immaculate at Minehead on the 5th October 2013. Copyright Roger Winnen

Ex MoD loco from Puriton, now at Washford 23rd June 2018 Copyright John Ball

The Purtiton Branch in 2011
A friend gained access to the bridge over the M5 a considerable time ago and took these three pictures.

Picture date 2011

Picture dated 2011. The M5 is seen here and Brent Knoll is in the distance.

Dunball Wharf

The wharf was formerly linked to the Bristol and Exeter Railway by a rail track which crossed the A38, on the right hand side of the hotel. The link was built in 1876 by coal merchants, and was originally operated as a horse-drawn tramway. It was removed during the Beeching Axe and Dunball also lost its railway station on 5th October 1964, which had opened in 1873. The wharf was used duringWorld War 2 to bring Welsh coal to the nearby Royal Ordnance Factory, The wharf is now used for landing stone products, mainly marine sand and gravels dredged in the Bristol Channel. Courtesy Wikipedia

Dunball Wharf in 2015 Copyright Colin Burges

Dunball Wharf 2015 Copyright Colin Burges

Highbridge Seventeen and Three Quarter miles from Taunton

From the Mike Roach Ticket Collection

A smashing period piece, a grubby tank and a long rake of vans and wagons trundling through. Copyright John Cornelius

A heritage B460 set on a Taunton - Bristol working calls at Highbridge on the 29th March, 1978 Highbridge West up loop in the background. Copyright Roger Winnen

Higbridge looking towards Taunton on the 18th September 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

Highbridge as 92139 running light engine and coming from Taunton dashes through. Sadly the canopies on both the up and down platforms were soon to be removed. The date 4th June 1965 Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Highbridge up platform station building on 29th March, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

Highbridge station exterior taken on the 29th March,1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

Highbridge in 1970. In this view by Chris Osment a Class 52 can be seen with a Taunton bound train, the roof of the signalbox is cut off by the footbridge which served not only the down platform but also the Somerset and Dorset platforms which lay almost at right angles to the right off the picture. Note how, almost cruelly the down awning has been hacked off. The elderly lady waiting for her service towards Bristol looks like as if she's off on holiday from the cases on the platform. Copyright

A very recent view of Highbridge, now just a basic station, on 18th September 2014 Copyright Chris Osment

41206 has pulled forward alongside Highbridge Crossing signal box. The either 41206 has just come over the crossover and will propel this vast sheeted load into the up loop or maybe the reverse is the case. A most interesting picture as it also shows so very clearly the diamond crossovers which took the S & D trains on towards Burnham on Sea. Mike Morant Collection

This time a D800 Warship on a service to Bristol Temple Meads runs through at speed. There were two crossovers on both the up and down main lines one pair, as seen, the other pair allowing S & D trains to head direct towards Burnham on Sea. The date 4th June 1965. Copyright Sid Sponheimer.

An unusual view of Highbridge Crossing Signal box which was itself of a unique design with, on this side a corner chamfered off to give a face parallel with the line to Burnham whilst on the far side the box was parallel to the Bristol and Exeter line. 1970 Chris Osment - Copyright

We are looking, at platform level, at the same spot as seen from the footbridge in the view above. Drastic track alterations have taken place with the crossovers removed and the trailing point switch from down to up lines replaced with a pair of facing points at the platform end. The ballast still remains where the S & D tracks crossed, taken 29th March, 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

Roger stands on the east north end of the up platform at Highbridge to witness Class 118 DMU B460 (Probably formed of 51302, 59461 and 51317) depart for Bristol Temple Meads. This location was very unusual in that until the closure of the Somerset and Dorset there was a flat railway crossing right here under this bridge. The S & D going to Burnham on Sea to the left and Bournemouth to the right. The S & D station was to the right. The hill just two miles distant is Brent Knoll it is 449' high. The date in the 29th March 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A note from Mike Roach Viewed from the new footbridge at Highbridge Station the former S&D Station appears to be completely covered by housing. Between the nearest houses and the station are these wagon wheels on a short length of track. The most interesting feature are the rail chairs showing evidence of LSWR and S&DJR manufacture.

Views from Brent Knoll

A view from Brent Knoll,a 449 ft high hill on the Somerset Levels . A Cross Country set passes in the foreground along the line which runs virtually dead straight and level from the Bridgwater to Bleadon and Uphill. The train is about three quarters of a mile west of Brent Knoll station. The High lighthouse is one of three lighthouses in Burnham-on-Sea, is a Grade II listed building, no longer functional as a lighthouse and has been used as a private dwelling. Burnham on Sea station S & D was about half a mile west of the lighthouse. Copyright Kevin Jenkin (2010).

In this view the Cross Country set has gone a little further west and is passing a Central Trains liveried 150 heading for Bristol. Copyright Kevin Jenkin (2010)

Looking NNE from Brent Knoll the headland of Breen Down is seen on the far right. The HST, just visible is passing through a wooded area which surrounds the site of the former Brean Halt. Copyright Kevin Jenkin (2010)

Brent Knoll station Twenty four and a half miles from Taunton

Brent_Knoll_Station_1894842_c55a704b 21st April 1963 The copyright is held by Ben Brooksbank and is licensed for reuse under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 2.0 license. Our appreciation to Ben for permission to use his image. N.B. The station seen here was situated to the west of the overbridge and the goods yard the shape of which can still be ascertained on google earth to the east of the bridge. The distant bridge carries a small lane. The goods facility at Brent Knoll was withdrawn 10th June 1963, the station remaining open for passengers until 4th January 1971.

A down Peak hauled train thunders towards Brent Knoll station in 1970. Chris Osment has really caught the atmosphere of the occasion here. The brick based signal box where the main interest of the signalman would be in controlling the passage of goods trains which served yard on the right here just beyond the box. Note the slippery slope of the timber platform, treacherous in wet weather. the cross members would supply some grip. Copyright.

A glimpse of the small signal box, the embankment taking the road up to the bridge is on the right. The ground in this area is predominantly flat although Brent Knoll makes an exception to the rule. 1970 Copyright Chris Osment

Brean Road Nineteen and a half miles from Taunton
Closed 2nd May 1955

Current view of Brean Road station site , courtesy of Google Street View, can be seen by clicking here.

Bleadon & Uphill Twenty four and a half miles from Taunton
Closed 5th October 1964

Openedin 1871, here is a rare view of Bleadon & Uphill in operation as 4985, Allersley Hall calls with an up service. From recollection, the platform on the downside was totally wood. Copyright John Thorn

A class 50 with ten coaches in tow approaches the site of Bleadon and Uphill. The down platform is lost without trace, However the up platforms extent can be seen with remnants of the stations primitive lighting system on the 9th April, 1980. Copyright Roger Winnen

The extent of the now long gone railway museum is clearly visible in this view. as are the station buildings taken on the 9th April, 1980. Copyright Roger Winnen

Bleadon & Uphill 790908o A Four Wheel Railbus which first went to Bodmin General on the Bodmin and Wenford line, is now at the Great Central at Loughborough. Copyright Roger Winnen

Bleadon & Uphill Museum with 1338 which once worked in Bridgwater Docks, now at Didcot. Also a Scammel Mechanical Horse VXD655. These vehicles were very popular having 360 deg steering making them very maneuverable. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

Another view of the museum taken from the adjacent bridge over the main line, although the collection has dispersed it is fortunate that the major items have found good homes. 9th April,1980 Copyright Roger Winnen

Another view of the remaining station buildings from an up train clearly shows the approach and the railbus. Photograph taken 9th October,1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

A snapshot of 1338 taken from a passing train. Copyright Sid Sponheimer.

1st June 1970 Copyright Ron Kosys

Uphill Cutting

Having travelled for many miles with scarcely any gradients the line passes through the lofty barrier of the Mendip Hills for which the excavation of a deep cutting was required. The flat plains are obvious in the picture by John Thorn. Also to be seen is a glimpse of that very rarely photographed station at Bleadon and Uphill just beyond the bridge. Here a Hymek hauls quite a substantial train northwards. This view is taken from Devils bridge. Copyright John Thorn

A very fine photographs by Geog Sheppard of Devils Bridge Bleadon Hill. Devil's Bridge carries the road up Bleadon Hill over Uphill Cutting of the Bristol and Exeter Railway line. This picture dated 19th Oct 2013 is looking towards Uphill Junction. Copyright Geof Sheppard. Reproduced under the conditions stated on the web.

Another view of the Hymek as it proceeds towards Uphill Junction. It looks a substantial train so maybe it took the Weston avoiding line. Viewed again from Devil's bridge, a local name given to this lofty structure. Copyright John Thorn

Uphill Junction

Leaving Bleadon and Uphill, which lies just beyond the distant bridge a Peak heads an up service passing under an over bridge given the name 'Devils Bridge' by the locals, which looks delicately thin at the centre of the arch. It looks as if the Peak will be calling at Weston super Mare and is slowing for the 40 MPH restriction at Uphill Junction on the 9th April, 1980 Copyright Roger Winnen

Another shot of the 135' foot 'Devils Bridge'. Emerging from the deep cutting the Peak heads towards to Uphill Junction which lies behind the photographer in this picture. The Peak looks as if it is 'under power' and therefore will not be calling at Weston super Mare. 9th April, 1980. Copyright Roger Winnen

A heritage set in the short lived off white and dark blue livery approaches Uphill Junction. From the setting of the crossover points it can be seen to destined for the down main line. Photograph taken on 9th April, 1980. Copyright Roger Winnen

The same set can now be identified as B501 as it heads across the junction on 9th April, 1980. Copyright Roger Winnen

Uphill Junction taken from a train which has called at Weston super Mare and is heading for Taunton. This picture dated April 1965. The double track loop off the main line was later singled leaving a loop at Weston super Mare station. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

A class 50 having by-passed Weston super Mare on the curved main line heads for Uphill Junction and cutting. Weston super Mare Aerodrome lay in the distance to the right the water tower belonged to an aircraft factory. The airfield now closed pays host to a helicopter museum. Knightstone Hills lie in the background. 9th April,1980. Copyright Roger Winnen

Weston Super Mare 26 and three quarter miles from Taunton

N.B. The main Bristol to Taunton by-passes Weston Super Mare, in fact it runs past the former West - super - Mare airfield - at one time airfield for RAF Locking. Tony Hill asked if anybody knew about a siding between Uphill and Worle Junctions. This was the subject of a request placed on this site at 06.30 on 24th April 2020 - Roy Hart very kindly responded to this request less than three hours later.
The Bristol Aircraft plant was served by extensive sidings on the down side between Worle and Uphill junctions. Passenger trains for the workers ran from Bristol and could come straight off the main line into the plant, where there was a special platform.
The layout was controlled by Hutton signalbox, which opened on 18th August 1940. The box closed on 7th June 1964.

Roy Hart. Many thanks Roy.
N,B, The former factory is now part of an industrial estate surrounded with houses which can be seen on Google Earth - no sign of any trackwork.

Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection

Zoom in for details of the track arrangements at Weston super Mare General, Locking road station was off to the north just prior to General. Pan east or west to see the junctions at Uphill and Worle.

D1575 47455 at Weston super Mare on the 11th March 1972 Copyright Steve Carter

Weston Super Mare staion from the west. A class 47 enters with an up service. A down service waits at the down platform. 29th October 1977 Copyright Roger Winnen

The prototype HST unit no. 252 001 at Weston-super-Mare General station in August 1975. [Mike Morant collection]

45128 Weston S Mare Turkey Trot Railtour 8th January 1983 Copyright Clive Smith

890610c Wearing regional railways colours 150 251 pauses at Weston Super Mare with a Bristol bound service. To save passengers a journey over the spacious covered footbridge to the up side of the station, at which the train is standing, services are routed to this platform in preference. Copyright Roger Winnen

890610e A view from the up platform showing the tight curvature of the platforms at Weston. Copyright Roger Winnen

A recollection about Weston station that might be worth preserving...
The up platform has a very tight curvature - so the engine driver could never see the guard's green flag.
This was the procedure...
On the guard's whistle, 3 or 4 porters would position themselves spaced out along the train. Starting from the front, they would check the doors and, if OK, raise their arm facing back down the train. When the sequence of raised arms reached the guard he would wave the green flag. The porters - still with raised hands - would pirouette in turn to transmit the 'right away' to the engineman.
Best wishes, John Thorn
Many thanks for details of that operating procedure John.

The history and development of the railway at Weston super Mare with three stations makes very interesting reading, however it is far too detailed to be covered here. For reference please look at the Wikipedia extensive item on the history and also the National History Museum of Scotland's excellent zoom-able map of the area Please click on the links below.
HISTORY
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Weston-super-Mare_railway_station
MAP
http://maps.nls.uk/geo/explore/#zoom=14&lat=51.3449&lon=-2.9722&layers=168&b=1

890610f The main entrance Weston Super Mare station is on the up side or north east, here a rather grand area with bus stops and taxi ranks greets the arriving passengers to this large seaside resort.. Copyright Roger Winnen

Another view, slightly more direct - perhaps the cars are a little more recent. 28th March, 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen

890610u Weston super Mare, the downside. Access is possible off a minor road serving this side.of the station. A rather grand covered footbridge rises up from the platform the stepped roofline in the station building indicating the direction of the rising stairway. The two ladies and a gentleman (Mr & Mrs Dick Coad, & Valerie Jenkin) were part of a CRS mini bus expedition which called here. Copyright Roger Winnen.

890610h No doubt about the time as an HST service waits departure for Paddington. Note the generous width of the platform. Copyright Roger Winnen

890610d Some of the CRS party stand on the up platform at the Bristol end, The bay still sees occasional use. The platform awaits its replacement awnings, David Brown, our minibus driver for the day stands on the extreme right. Copyright Roger Winnen

A Peak rolls into Weston super Mare with a service from the north on 28th March, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

150 263 runs into Weston super Mare down platform with a service from Bristol. Copyright Roger Winnen

890610g Under a darkening sky an HST runs into the bi-directional former up platform. It is arriving with a service from Paddington. The Locking Road terminus lay beyond this platform and was only accessible from the east. This picture taken on 10th June 1989 Copyright Roger Winnen

A view from a train overlooking the end of the up platform of the sidings which were once part of the goods yard beyond which lay Locking Road station. 29th October, 1977. Copyright Roger Winnen

Weston (Locking Road)

Locking Road station opened in April 1914 and closed in September 1964.

The celebrity loco 3440 City of Truro stands at Weston Super Mare Locking Road station with the 1961 Westward Televison Exhibition train. Copyright John Thorn

Weston Super Mare Locking Road with 5954 Faendre Hall, this loco built in December 1935 was withdrawn in October 1963. Copyright John Thorn

Locking Road Weston super Mare was a terminus the site of which is well defined in this picture by the car park. It had two long island platforms with rails either side giving four faces to handle the heavy excursion traffic to the resort, the station extending down to have an independent and only entrance on Locking road. The ends of the excursion platforms being not more than thirty yards from the end of the current up platform. Weston S Mare had two signbalboxes, one the west box at the far end of the general station the East box was located where the pile white concrete fittings have been placed - this was open from 1922 to 72 and had 113 levers. Weston super Mare goods yard was situated between the metals of the excursion platforms of Locking Road and the General station, the goods yard closed on the 20th June 1966 but some of the sidings remained in use as carriage sidings. Taken on 28th March, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Weston Milton Halt Twenty eight miles from Taunton

890610a A two car heritage set based at Cardiff pulls away from Weston Milton Halt on the 10th June 1989 heading for Bristol. The platform currently in use is the former up platform, the down platform was removed after the line was singled on 31st January 1972. The former down platform found further use and now serves passengers at Lympstone Commando on the Exmouth branch. Copyright Roger Winnen

A view looking forward from a Weston bound train under the bridge on the north side of the one time double track halt. The down platform which was to get a second life is clearly seen in this view on 9th October, 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

Worle Junction

Worle Junction, greatly simplified since the Weston Loop was singled in 1972. Here we see the Manchester Pullman with two Class 31's in charge on the 28th June 1986. The sea mist which somewhat spoils this view must have spoilt the pleasures for those on Weston's sands. Copyright Roger Winnen

Worle Junction and station

Having passed through the distant Mendip Hills the line enjoys a level run past Weston Super Mare. This view of Worle Junction shows the Weston avoiding line on the left and the double track line to the resort on the right. There have been several stations at Worle. The original, we are informed by john Thorn was served by the lane to the right of centre of this picture. This closed in 1922 to be replaced by a station to the north of the bridge. John can remember the remains of the station here. Copyright John Thorn

An enlargement form the above photograph shows more detail of the signalbox which was banished on the singling of the Weston Loop on 31st January 1972. The signal is pulled off for a train from Weston Super Mare to join the main line. Note the board crossing for the signalman. Copyright John Thorn

Looking over the Bristol side of the bridge a Western hurtles towards John Thorn on, from the signals, a service avoiding Weston Super Mare. A new station at Worle, just over three quarters of a mile east was opened on the 24th September 1990. Copyright John Thorn.

Worle This station was opened on the 24th September 1990

Worle - on the first day. A 2 car class 108 number B961 calls with a lunchtime service for BTM. Kevin started work at 1400 so this was a handy service. 24th September 1990 Copyright Kevin Redwood

Worle 2 is taken from the ramp of the up platform looking towards Bristol on the day of opening. Passngers gather on the up platform whilst on the down platform a spectator keeps his child save as a down service appraoches 24th Sepember 1990 Copyright Kevin Redwood

Worle on the opening day from the car park. 24th September 1990. An enthusiast sorts his equipment in the foreground. Copyright Kevin Redwood

- and finally the large car park which goes with every modern station provision. Copyright Kevin Redwood

From Wilkipedia. The modern Worle railway station is the fourth station to serve Worle. The first station was 47 chains (0.95 km) east of the modern station, was opened in 1841 as Banwell and was known as Worle from 1869 to 1884, then as Puxton and Worle from 1922 until closure in 1964.

Puxton and Worle Twenty nine and a quarter miles from Taunton
This station closed 6th April 1964

Possibly Puxton & Worle S Box now used as a Level Crossing Box. Situated after the loop line comes in from WSM 6th October 2016 Copyright Roger Winnen Chris Osment confirms the location and writes Puxton & Worle, and it is still in use as the crossing control point; it also supervises the nearby Huish crossing. No lever-frame now, just a few switches etc AFAIK. I’m told by relevant sources that it may get replaced by CCTV in the near/distant future, but who knows????

Worle 57601 in Porterbrook livery on trial with FGW. June 2002 Copyright Martin Baker.

West Hewish 57601 June 2002. Returing from a trial run from Plymouth. Copyright Martin Baker

Hewish or Huish Crossing

About a mile west of Yatton lies Hewish Crossing here we see the box, boarded up. Courtesy John Cornelies

Yatton Thirty two and a half miles from Taunton

For a track plan at Yatton click below - pan to the west to see the up and down loops - https://www.google.co.uk/maps/place/Yatton,+North+Somerset/@51.3905927,-2.8301629,17z/data=!4m2!3m1!1s0x4871f0d43c104009:0x77aa3f6771d2b0b4

A railtour pauses at Yatton as 41202 and 41203 take water. 28th April 1957. Courtesy the Mike Morant Collection.

Yatton: (1) A Western' rushes through non-stop on the 09.50 Weston-super-Mare to Paddington. N.B. The Western is probably D1052 Western Viceroy judging by the weathering on the front which matches other pictures at the time of this loco. Summer 1969. Copyright The late John Vines, Courtesy Andrew Vines. Note :- The curved roof over the Yatton Platform came from Dauntsey station when that closed.

(2) The old Clevedon bay, complete with signals and associated infrastructure, including the magnificent Yatton West signal box (129 levers) and 'drop arm' starter on the down main visible to the left. Summer 1969. The Clevedon branch closed 3rd October 1966.

Photograph by the late John Stanford showing a Weston to Paddington train slowing to call at Yatton station. Note the signal box is still functional closed in January 1972 and the Clevedon branch connection and Clevedon bay platform (right hand side in shot, is still in situ). Indeed there are box vans in the bay. Copyright Paul Stanford

A class 31 trundles along with a medium size up freight tailed by a brakevan. The signal shows a yellow for the line ahead, presumably a down service is still in the section but one ahead on the 29th March, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

A quiet moment at Yatton two or maybe three people loiter on the platforms. The end valance of the down platform canopy has been removed probably in the interests of safety as that on the up platform looks in need of maintenance on 29th March, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

One could once change here for the 'Strawberry line' but alas no more. Photo taken on the 28th March, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

Yatton as 41245 waits with a service for Witham on 7th September 1963 Copyright Mike Roach

A Peak rushes through Yatton under a blue sky on the 29th March, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

Yatton, looking towards Taunton with the former bay platform to Cheddar, Wells and Witham on the left and that for the short run to Clevedon on the right. Both branches veered off sharply to the left and right respectively. There are up and down line loops to the west of Yatton, the signal for down loop cam be seen at the end of the down platform. Note the matching 'barrel roofs' on both the platforms. Photograph taken 29th March, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen.

A view of the downside approach. Looking beneath the flat roof cover over the down platform the up platform building is visible with its attractive gothic shaped apertures for the doors and windows. 29th March, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

Yatton station, a view of the outside on the up side. Trains for Clevedon departed from the bay platform under the canopy. 28th June 1986. Copyright Roger Winnen

Looking back at the down main platform from an up service - the footbridge has already lost its overall roof. Trains for Cheddar, Wells and Witham were dealt with on the left hand side face of the main platform. 29th October, 1977. Copyright Roger Winnen

47 138 heads a service towards Bristol, the road serving the station runs down to the left alongside the track. Photograph taken on 29th March, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen.

33027 Earl Mountbatten of Burma rushes a charter through Yatton on the 28th June 1986 (This loco and stock had previously been seen at Bedminster heading east) Copyright Roger Winnen

A diesel on a pub sign. Yes, the picture of a Class 52 western on the station pub delighted enthusiasts for several years - this view from the station on 29th March, 1978. . Copyright Roger Winnen

A rather grubby 47 heads northwards out of Yatton station on 29th March, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

Looking from the roadbridge at the approach to the station form the Bristol direction on 29th March, 1978.. Copyright Roger Winnen

Nailsea and Backwell Thirty six and three quarter miles from Taunton

Nailsea and Backwell Copyright Roger Winnen (From an up train on 9th October, 1976.)

Nailsea & Backwell 1967, a detailed history and photographs
by Michael Bussell

Nailsea & Backwell Station is on the Bristol Temple Meads – Weston-super-Mare line, built by the Bristol & Exeter Railway that was later absorbed into the Great Western Railway. The station, located on an embankment, opened on 14 June 1841 as plain ‘Nailsea’. ‘& Backwell’ was added to its name on 1 May 1905, dropped on 6 May 1974, and restored on 2 May 1977. I visited on 30 April 1967, and was able to photograph the buildings as they then stood. These I believe dated from the 1860s, replacing the original buildings that, like the platforms, had been of timber rather than masonry to minimise the surcharging effect of their weight on what is quite a high man-made embankment. Sadly, the main station building on the north side of the line, of two storeys entered at ground level and giving access to the up platform, was demolished in the 1970s, in its turn to be replaced by a mean ‘bus shelter’ on the platform – a wanton destruction of a fine stone building, and giving the lie to the phrase ‘customer care’. (It also reminds me of the Biblical saying which can be paraphrased as “every judgement judges the judges”.)
Visible in several of the photos is the former engine house of the Amberlands colliery, on the south side of the line. The colliery had closed as long ago as the middle of the 19th century, but survived as a fine ruin, a landscape feature more reminiscent of Cornwall than of Somerset, before it too was pulled down, in 1974.

Photos taken 30 April 1967

1. A distant view of the station from the north. From left to right can be seen the footbridge; the Amberlands engine house; the main station building, a small goods shed, and a signal box – all on the up platform. (A small waiting shelter on the down platform is not seen in this view, as it is beyond the main building.) Copyright Michael Bussell.

2. The main station building from the west, built of stone like the base of the platform-level goods shed just visible nearer the camera. Copyright Michael Bussell.

3. The main station building from the east, with the platform-level timber goods shed (on its stone base) and the signal box just visible beyond. Copyright Michael Bussell.

4. Looking east from a few yards beyond the previous viewpoint is seen the footbridge linking the two platforms. The girders in the foreground support the up platform over Station Road beneath, the railway tracks themselves being carried by a stone arch bridge. Copyright Michael Bussell.

5. A view east along the up platform towards the footbridge, with the platform frontage of the main building in the foreground. Copyright Michael Bussell.

6. The timber waiting shelter on the down platform. Copyright Michael Bussell.

7. A view across the tracks from the west end of the up platform shows the long-abandoned Amberlands colliery engine house, which was to be demolished a few years after my visit. Copyright Michael Bussell.

8. Looking westwards from the footbridge (with apologies for the camera shake). Copyright Michael Bussell.

9. The maker’s nameplate on the footbridge establishes its date: E FINCH & Co LIMTD ENGINEERS 1907 IRONFOUNDERS &c CHEPSTOW. Copyright Michael Bussell.

10. The main station building, the Station Road arch bridge and down platform girders, and the footbridge, seen from the south. Copyright Michael Bussell.

Many thanks Michael for your exhaustive study.

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Tyntesfield Government Sidings - Flax Bourton

Just west of Flax Bourton These were closed in 1981 Quite extensive sidings existed here - they ran for approximately 1,000 yards north east - a good view of these can be obtained by reference to Google Earth and by turning the clock back to 1999. Google Ref 51deg 25' 34, N 2 deg 42' 51 E

From Ron Kosys. A Saturday visit to Bristol Airport for work gave me the opportunity to photograph the peak season Saturday only Butlins Express that ran from Minehead to Bristol and return.
The closest point with easy access was the bridge at Flax Bourton which overlooked the long closed Tyntesfield MOD sidings.

On Saturday 11th August 2007, 31452 worked the train to Bristol, with Mainline liveried 31454 hanging on the back. It ran as 1Z35 1110 Minehead to Bristol.
Immediately before it was a Weston-super-Mare to Paddington HST, with 43133 on the front.

On Saturday 11th August 2007, 31452 worked the train to Bristol, with Mainline liveried 31454 hanging on the back. It ran as 1Z35 1110 Minehead to Bristol. Copyright Ron Kosys

The rear of the above train. Copyright Ron Kosys

43133 Flax Bourton 11th August 2007 Copyright Ron Kosys

Flax Bourton Thirty nine miles from Taunton
Closed 2nd December 1963

Some traces of Flax Bourton station site remain. this picture taken on the 13th October 2014 from a speeding west bound train. Copyright Roger Winnen

Flax Bourton on the 1st April, 2001, taken from a speeding train heading east. However from this view it is easy to recognise the goods loading dock, the waiting shelter and the main station building. The building has since suffered from an arson attack, Re-opening as a station for Bristol Airport has been suggested. - Copyright Roger Winnen

Flax_Bourton railway station MMB 35 Copyright Matt Buck From Wilkimedia Picture dated 25th August 2011

Long Ashton Middleton Press records that the station ceased to appear in public timetables from 24th September 1950 Yet the official closing wasn't until 6th October 1964. Unfortunately we haven't been able to obtain a picture of this station - one can be found in the Middleton Press Bristol - Taunton book.

Parson Street Junction

To see a recent Track Plan of the Parson Junction click here, pan to the east to see Parson Street and Bedminster https://www.google.co.uk/maps/@51.4322467,-2.6130793,17z

Parson Street Jct 28th May 96 N.B. The Portishead line was closed for twenty years and re-instated in December 2001 to serve Royal Portbury Dock. Whilst the metals remain there is still a chance that the Portishead branch might reopen for passenger traffic. Copyright Roger Winnen

It is indeed a gloomy day as we look westwards. To the right the Portishead branch turns off at Parson Street Junction, the loop and sidings to the right of the main line nowadays serve Bristol Freightliner Railport. 20th October, 1979. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Parson Street Forty two and three quarter miles from Taunton

It is a gloomy day as Cardiff based unit C335 stops by the 'bus shelter' on the down island platform. The unit bears the destination Mythyr - hardly likely on this service!! 20th October, 1979. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Parson Street. A view from 'On high' off the road bridge. As can be seen from the white lines on the platform edges only the inner faces of the islands are in use. Under the distant bridge lies Parson Street Junction, it is from here that the Portishead branch bears off to the right on 20th October, 1979. Copyright Roger Winnen (The line between here and Bedminster was quadrupled in 1933 prior to this there was a short tunnel at this location)

The view approaching Parson Street from the east on 18th August, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

Parson Street - the name board on 29th May 87 Copyright Roger Winnen

Malago Vale Carriage sidings

Very extensive carriage sidings once existed here, the site of the sidings has been replaced by housing all of which is protected from the railway scene by a high wooden fence.

A lovely picture caught passing Malogo Vale sidings 33016 Malgo Vale, Bristol 12 june 1983 Copyright Steve Widdowson

Malago Vale 1A 31454 heads the Butlins Express the 1Z39 1406 Bristol - Minehead 31452 11th August 2007 Copyright Ron Kosys N.B. Note the remains of one siding.

Malago Vale 1B 31452 on the rear of 1Z39 1406 Bristol - Minehead 31454 11th August 2007 Copyright Ron Kosys

Malago Vale 2A 43005 Paddington to Weston super Mare 11th August 2007 Copyright Ron Kosys

Malago Vale 2B Hired in Midland 42046 leads 1V49 0941 SO NCL - NQY 43073 at rear. 11th August 20017 Copyright Ron Kosys

Malago Vale 2C First Trans Pennine liveried 158764 works a Cardiff to Taunton service. 11th August 2007 Copyright Ron Kosys

Malago Vale 3A 37602 passes Malago Vale with the 6Z37 0900 Taunton - Fletton 8th July 2009 Copyright Rpn Kosys

Malago Vale 3B 67016 passes Malago Vale on the 8th July 2009 with the 2U14 1102 SX Taunton-Cardiff Copyright Ron Kosys

Malago Vale 3C 67017 passes Malago Vale on the 8th July 2009 with the 2U14 1102 SX Taunton-Cardiff Copyright Ron Kosys

Malago Vale 4A 43015 43092 8th July 2009 0Z74 0950 Laira-St Phillips Marsh Copyright Ron Kosys

Malago Vale 4B 43015 43092 Malago Vale 8th July 2009 0Z74 0950 Laira - St Phillips Marsh Copyright Ron Kosys

Bedminster Forty three and a quarter miles from Taunton

Seen from the front of a DMU, weren't those heritage sets marvellous? Now reduced to a very basic station, two almost barren island platforms accessed by means of stairs from the street below. At one time it boasted quite considerable awnings, now only the inner sides of the islands are used. Photographed on 18th August, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

B431 looking pretty smart pulls away from Bedminster. 28th August 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

33027 Lord Mountbatten Earl of Burma heads through Bedminster 28th June 1986 Copyright Roger Winnen

On a cold and misty day on 30th January 1981 a hybrid DMU set calls at Bedminster with a westbound service. Copyright Roger Winnen (A view through the trees seen in the picture above)

Better light on 50050 Fearless as it accelerates away from Temple Meads heading for Taunton. 31st January 1981 Copyright Roger Winnen

Bristol Freightliner Depot

141009d Bristol Freightliner Terminal with 66543 in attendance. Copyright Roger Winnen

Pylle Hill Washing Plant

A Peak passe by Pylle Hill washing plant heading west. 31t January 1981 Copyright Roger Winnen

An HST in original livery passes Pylle Hill washing plant 31st January 1981. Copyright Roger Winnen

Pylle Hill Sidings

141013a Pylle Hill just the west of Bristol Temple Meads on the up side. Copyright Roger Winnen

Bristol West Junction

141009e Bristol West Junction for St Philips Marsh. This line serves the St Phillips Marsh HST depot and continues on to form a trailing junction with the Bath to Bristol Temple Meads line to the east of Feeder Bridge Junction. Copyright Roger Winnen

980413a Royal Mail Vans on the approach to BTM, the avoiding line via St Phillips Marsh is lower middle of the photo. Copyright Roger Winnen

Bristol Temple Meads Forty four and a quarter miles from Taunton

Map courtesy Google Maps. Bristol Temple Meads in the centre Lawrence Hill is on the line heading to the north at the top of the map. Bedminster is on the line towards Taunton heading off to the left. The line to the right heads towards Keynsham and Bath. Use Zoom and Pan to see more of recent track layouts. Note the now isolated rails of the Bristol Harbour Railway on the opposite bank of the Floating Harbour to Canon's Marsh.

A winter sun breaks through the gloom of the haze over Temple Meads. 31st January 1981 Copyright Roger Winnen

141009f A very recent view approaching Bristol Temple Meads on the 06.45 Penzance-Paddington on 9th October 2014 Copyright Roger Winnen

As one arrived at Temple Meads eyes were turned to see what was on shed. Even in diesel days this was of great interest. Sid Sponheimer who took this picture says that there are no less than six types of diesel on shed - can you spot them. An engineman picks his way carefully over the metals on his way to the shed. No orange jacket! Enthusiasts watch on enviously from the platform end! Copyright Sid Sponheimer

BR class 22 'Baby Warship' Bo-Bo diesel hydraulics nos. D6352 and D6354 at Bristol Bath Road depot. [Mike Morant collection]

The platform end scene looking into Bristol Bath Road. 20th July 1971 Copyright Ron Kosys

Another platform end shot. Bristol Bath Road Green Class 31 5617 Bristol Bath 16th August 1972 Copyright Ron Kosys

What a grand name of a locomotive - the leader of the pack! Copyright John Cornelius

Watch out, there's a King about. Temporarily stabled in the Dock Road at Temple Meads is 6023 King Edward second awaits restoration. Copyright Sid Sponheimer

R.C.T.S. (London Branch) Somerset & Dorset Rail Tour
Locos Used35011 'General Steam Navigation', 34015 'Exmouth' & 31639, 48309, 41307, 41283 & 82019Route :
Loco(s)Route
35011 (2)London Waterloo - Clapham Junction - Hampton Court Jn - Woking - Basingstoke - Winchester - Eastleigh - Southampton - Bournemouth Central - Broadstone
31639 + 34015Broadstone - Evercreech Junction - Masbury - Radstock - Bath Green Park
48309Bath Green Park - Mangotsfield - Bristol Temple Meads - Weston-Super-Mare - Highbridge (West)
41307 & 41283Highbridge (S&D) - Glastonbury - Templecombe
35011Templecombe - Salisbury - Basingstoke - Woking - Hampton Court Jn - Clapham Junction - London Waterloo.

Here we see the above train ready to depart Bristol Temple Meads with 48309. This one of the 3 8F's fitted with Steam Heat, this hauled the train from Bath To Highbridge Copyright Geoff Matthew

A class 37 awaits its turn of duty outside Bristol Bath Road shed which appears to be nearly empty - a class 50 sits on the left hand side. 1st April, 1978. Copyright Roger Winnen

The steam heating is on as a Peak makes ready to depart on a northbound service. An HST stands in platform 3. 9th October, 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

The prototype HST stands at platform 3 under the cavernous roof of the station. Steam heating is still in evidence on the train opposite! 10th October, 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen.

45062 Bristol TM Turkey Trot Railtour 8th January 1983 Copyright Clive Smith

66748 at Bristol Temple Meads on 2nd November 2016 with the empty Portbury-Hexthorpe Biomass working. This loco has been repainted and named 'West Burton 50'. Copyright Guy Vincent

143620 Bristol Temple Meads 12th December 2017. Copyright Guy Vincent. 143620 at Bristol Temple Meads on the late evening of December 12th 2017 prior to forming the 2157 stopping service to Exeter St Davids. The unit had been receiving maintenance at St Phillips Marsh.

880907b The Bristol & Exeter Railway building now named Collect House. Copyright Roger Winnen

Bristol Temple Meads - the grand façade taken on the 9th October,1976.. Copyright Roger Winnen.

Brunels terminal station, currently a car park but likely to return to use as a station lies alongside and to the right of the approach to the main station taken on the 9th October, 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen

Turning about and looking further into the terminus one can see an area currently an up market exhibition site. Note the hammerbeam roof. Photograph taken on the 9th October, 1976. Copyright Roger Winnen