Taunton to Minehead
West Somerset Railway
West Somerset Railway
We are extremely grateful to Chris Osment for the considerable input which he has provided. Chris is a volunteer signalman on the wonderful West Somerset Railway. Many thanks also to Craig Munday, Mike Roach the late John Cornelius and Roger Winnen who have also provided contributions.
Reference has been made to 'The Atlas of the Great Western 1947 by Tony Cooke' and other publications.
WSR Preservation history
1973Freehold bought by Somerset County Council
1975Light Railway Order granted
Minehead to Blue Anchor opened 28th March 1976
and services extended to Williton on 28th August the same year.
1979Re-opened to Bishops Lydeard
1987New station at Doniford
2009New station at Norton Fitzwarren
2020 After a lengthy shut down the WSR reopened with Santa specials on the 12th December 2020.
1973Freehold bought by Somerset County Council
1975Light Railway Order granted
Minehead to Blue Anchor opened 28th March 1976
and services extended to Williton on 28th August the same year.
1979Re-opened to Bishops Lydeard
1987New station at Doniford
2009New station at Norton Fitzwarren
2020 After a lengthy shut down the WSR reopened with Santa specials on the 12th December 2020.
During the summer of 2007 the 'Butlins Express' ran providing a through service to Minehead. A 'Taster' for an article on this one summer only service by Brian Pibworth is provided below - Click here for the relevant Features Section (1802) read the story and see all of the pictures of this historic event.

The Last Train to Minehead.
Looking Back - Andrew Jones who rode the last B.R. Train remembers the event.
Looking Back - Andrew Jones who rode the last B.R. Train remembers the event.
Dear Keith and Valerie,
What a turbulent time for our railways! Railways re opening after extended closure, some like the Llangothlen Railway dealt a fatal blow after many years fighting to reach Corwen and may even be forced into total closure once again. Okehampton re joining the national network. The 800 series Hitachi revisiting metal fatigue problems, reminiscent of those dark days surrounding the de havilland Comet.
When I travelled on the last train to Minehead in 1971 all those years ago, I didn’t think things could get much worse, although the events on that night bordered on the antics of the Titfield Thunderbolt.
Why last trains always had a carnival atmosphere, escaped me at the time as the booked 21.30 actually left Taunton at 21.10 strengthened to nine coaches, with a traditional cacophony of detonators which must have reminded local residents of world war 11. It sounded like someone had raided the entire signal departments supply. The guard had managed to control the passengers for a few miles, but Crowcombe station signalled the start of blasts from the DMU horns which even with warnings that he would terminate the train continued all the way to Minehead.
Railway employees contrary to popular belief are not all enthusiasts but even the most ardent guard had to give up in the end.
We were not the only revellers that night as the local round table had chartered an earlier train leaving Minehead at 20.25.
The return trip was even more eventful, our booked departure from Minehead was 22.10 but in reality by the time the brass band had played and various delaying tactics hatched on the way up enacted , the train finally departed at 22.30.
Again no one slept in Minehead that night!
By Dunster a group of railway terrorists had occupied the rear driving compartment and were busily applying the brakes at every opportunity.
However by Stogumber the band had manged to slow the journey to a crawl by insisting on playing at every station edged on by the partying passengers. It was only when we reached Crowcombe that it was realised that the band had been left at Stogumber by mistake.
So the train was reversed back to collect them.
Everyone arrived back at Taunton thankfully in one piece ending an amazing trip, which these days would have probably ended in some government enquiry.
I can remember walking home and glancing at the town clock which had just chimed 1 o’clock. If anyone tells you the last train ran to Minehead on the 2nd of January 1971, think again for we arrived back on the 3rd of January!
I have attached a last day cover and my precious last ticket.
Very best wishes to everyone and be careful.
Andrew and Diane
What a turbulent time for our railways! Railways re opening after extended closure, some like the Llangothlen Railway dealt a fatal blow after many years fighting to reach Corwen and may even be forced into total closure once again. Okehampton re joining the national network. The 800 series Hitachi revisiting metal fatigue problems, reminiscent of those dark days surrounding the de havilland Comet.
When I travelled on the last train to Minehead in 1971 all those years ago, I didn’t think things could get much worse, although the events on that night bordered on the antics of the Titfield Thunderbolt.
Why last trains always had a carnival atmosphere, escaped me at the time as the booked 21.30 actually left Taunton at 21.10 strengthened to nine coaches, with a traditional cacophony of detonators which must have reminded local residents of world war 11. It sounded like someone had raided the entire signal departments supply. The guard had managed to control the passengers for a few miles, but Crowcombe station signalled the start of blasts from the DMU horns which even with warnings that he would terminate the train continued all the way to Minehead.
Railway employees contrary to popular belief are not all enthusiasts but even the most ardent guard had to give up in the end.
We were not the only revellers that night as the local round table had chartered an earlier train leaving Minehead at 20.25.
The return trip was even more eventful, our booked departure from Minehead was 22.10 but in reality by the time the brass band had played and various delaying tactics hatched on the way up enacted , the train finally departed at 22.30.
Again no one slept in Minehead that night!
By Dunster a group of railway terrorists had occupied the rear driving compartment and were busily applying the brakes at every opportunity.
However by Stogumber the band had manged to slow the journey to a crawl by insisting on playing at every station edged on by the partying passengers. It was only when we reached Crowcombe that it was realised that the band had been left at Stogumber by mistake.
So the train was reversed back to collect them.
Everyone arrived back at Taunton thankfully in one piece ending an amazing trip, which these days would have probably ended in some government enquiry.
I can remember walking home and glancing at the town clock which had just chimed 1 o’clock. If anyone tells you the last train ran to Minehead on the 2nd of January 1971, think again for we arrived back on the 3rd of January!
I have attached a last day cover and my precious last ticket.
Very best wishes to everyone and be careful.
Andrew and Diane
Many thanks to you Andrew for your record of a very memorable journey. Thank heavens we can still travel the line.
Taunton
Norton Fitzwarren 2 miles from Taunton
Norton Platform 2 3/4 miles from Taunton
Reference Wikipedia On 24th March 2004, the WSRA announced the purchase of 33 acres of land at Norton Fitzwarren. The triangular piece of land is located between: the existing WSR line from Allerford bridge (B3227) south to the junction with Network Rail; the westward running residual trackbed of the Barnstaple branch from Network Rail junction to the first lane crossing the former trackbed in the west. The purchase of the land was announced as the first step in a 20-year programme to create a new train turning facility, alongside a national-scale "Heritage Railway Development" encompassing: an engine shed; carriage works; and railway engineering facility.
Planning permission was granted by Somerset County Council and a drainage plane approved by the Environment Agency. An agreement was made with Network Rail to utiles spent ballast and rail from NR's upgrade programme with NR trains operating to and from Fairwater Yard. A triangular layout has been established with an inner chord to turn trains before the junction with Network Rail.
At the Bishops Lydeard end of the triangle lies Allerford Junction, and just beyond this the WSR have created a new four coach station called Norton Platform.
Planning permission was granted by Somerset County Council and a drainage plane approved by the Environment Agency. An agreement was made with Network Rail to utiles spent ballast and rail from NR's upgrade programme with NR trains operating to and from Fairwater Yard. A triangular layout has been established with an inner chord to turn trains before the junction with Network Rail.
At the Bishops Lydeard end of the triangle lies Allerford Junction, and just beyond this the WSR have created a new four coach station called Norton Platform.
The two pictures below, by Chris Osment, were taken on 23 March 2013, when the Railmotor was on the WSR. It was the “Spring” Gala, hence the dismal weather – it was s-o-o cold that the batteries in the camera gave up much of the time!
When was the platform opened? I am advised that the platform was approved by the ORR on 17 July 2009 and first used by passengers during the subsequent Steam Fayre and Vintage Vehicle Rally on 1 and 2 August 2009. There does not appear to have been any formal commissioning or opening date, and I believe even the name ‘Norton Platform’ is still informal. Chris

Here are 3 pictures taken today 22nd June 2018 of the new siding on the back of Norton Platform.
One is the nice refurbished buffet stop, one of the WSR’s road railer, and a general view up the siding looking towards Bishops Lydeard.
This siding should see action during the Steam & Vintage Rally, held here on the 5th & 6th August this year, to display some of the Vintage Stock, including the GWR Sleeping Car and the ex Taunton Inspectors Saloon
Cheers
Rob

Norton Fitzwarren Its 11.57 on the 3rd August 2019. The service on the Taunton to Bishops Lydeard making a special stop at Norton Platform on the occasion of a Vintage Vehicle Event being staged on the triangle. Copyright Robert Lindley -- Thought you would like a shot of the Summer Saturdays only Taunton - Bishops Lydeard shuttle. This has a service of 5 trains each way. Today only, stopping at Norton Fitzwarren Station for the annual Steam and Vintage Vehicle Rally.
Note from Chris Osment. The pictures below were, all taken on 9th August 2010, show an HOBC (High Output Ballast Cleaner) train arriving from Fairwater Yard, running up past Allerford Jcn, and then reversing onto the triangle ready to discharge. [At that time the trains had an engine at each end and returned to Taunton by the same route. However, since completion of the triangle and the addition of ‘Barnstaple Jcn’ at the ‘apex’ nearest to the NR access, AIUI the HOBC now comes with one engine only and the train traverses the whole triangle in order to ‘change direction’.
Two more Norton pictures taken in 2016 by Robert Lindley. Robert writes :- Thought you would like to see the "big railway" using the turning triangle at Norton Fitzwarren on the WSR. This is not an uncommon operation as the train is based at Fairwater Yard, Taunton about a mile up the track. The first photo shows the train rounding the west cord of the triangle topped and tailed by class 66's. The second photo shows the rear of the train, heading away from me to rejoin the WSR main line.
This happened about 3pm on the 26th Feb.
The Norton Triangle - Derek Buttivant
Hello once more Keith.
In an effort to find a way of explaining the Norton Fitzwarren triangle situation, I have done a little more "digging" and can offer the following. I am a little more confident that the information is now largely accurate.
The most complete and detailed map and photos can be found at the following web address: http://www.wsr.org.uk/nortonmap.htm This confirms that the triangle land belongs to the West Somerset Railway. The photos I sent of Royal Scot were taken from Allerford Lane. Clicking on the various coloured symbols on the map brings up photos of the marked sites. Since moving to this part of Somerset in September 2020 - and when not prohibited from doing so by Covid lock-downs - I have been a frequent user of the road which crosses Norton Bridge at the northern apex of the triangle. The narrow, busy road and high hedges restrict opportunities for clear views (and prevented me from taking photos) but I have seen glimpses of yellow-painted Network Rail ballast wagons being hauled around the west side of the triangle towards the spent ballast plant which is located close to Norton Bridge and has road access from Allerford lane. Also, from time to time, grey-painted ballast wagons belonging to the WSR have also been seen on the extra triangle chord just behind the platform. I have not seen either of these for quite a few weeks now. The nearby Fairwater Yard where NR handles its high-output ballast train workings seems to be the source of occasional deliveries of spent ballast and I believe that this, when cleaned, is sold on either for further railway use on the West Somerset or as hardcore to local hauliers.
The triangle site has been used by the WSR for its steam rallies, sadly cancelled again this year. The passenger platform has provided access to the site via a shuttle train service from Bishops Lydeard. There is normally no public access to the triangle land - and with spent ballast trains using the triangle lines, this is understandable. A video (link below) was taken from the front of a dmu between Bishops Lydeard and the new exchange platform beside the Norton Fitzwarren triangle and was filmed when the WSR was running shuttles in connection with one of its steam rallies held on the land behind the platform within the triangle.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbx11cqbST8
The usefulness of the triangle is also shown in a video (link below) of a pair of locos using the Norton Fitzwarren triangle to turn. Note that the site of the spent ballast plant appears at about 1 minute 30 seconds but the second chord along the east to north side of the triangle has yet to appear.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kj30pBzxsHE
I hope the above information and links might be of some use to you - and perhaps to users of the CRS web site. Any factual errors are mine - and not those of the CRS!
Kind regards,
Derek
In an effort to find a way of explaining the Norton Fitzwarren triangle situation, I have done a little more "digging" and can offer the following. I am a little more confident that the information is now largely accurate.
The most complete and detailed map and photos can be found at the following web address: http://www.wsr.org.uk/nortonmap.htm This confirms that the triangle land belongs to the West Somerset Railway. The photos I sent of Royal Scot were taken from Allerford Lane. Clicking on the various coloured symbols on the map brings up photos of the marked sites. Since moving to this part of Somerset in September 2020 - and when not prohibited from doing so by Covid lock-downs - I have been a frequent user of the road which crosses Norton Bridge at the northern apex of the triangle. The narrow, busy road and high hedges restrict opportunities for clear views (and prevented me from taking photos) but I have seen glimpses of yellow-painted Network Rail ballast wagons being hauled around the west side of the triangle towards the spent ballast plant which is located close to Norton Bridge and has road access from Allerford lane. Also, from time to time, grey-painted ballast wagons belonging to the WSR have also been seen on the extra triangle chord just behind the platform. I have not seen either of these for quite a few weeks now. The nearby Fairwater Yard where NR handles its high-output ballast train workings seems to be the source of occasional deliveries of spent ballast and I believe that this, when cleaned, is sold on either for further railway use on the West Somerset or as hardcore to local hauliers.
The triangle site has been used by the WSR for its steam rallies, sadly cancelled again this year. The passenger platform has provided access to the site via a shuttle train service from Bishops Lydeard. There is normally no public access to the triangle land - and with spent ballast trains using the triangle lines, this is understandable. A video (link below) was taken from the front of a dmu between Bishops Lydeard and the new exchange platform beside the Norton Fitzwarren triangle and was filmed when the WSR was running shuttles in connection with one of its steam rallies held on the land behind the platform within the triangle.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Pbx11cqbST8
The usefulness of the triangle is also shown in a video (link below) of a pair of locos using the Norton Fitzwarren triangle to turn. Note that the site of the spent ballast plant appears at about 1 minute 30 seconds but the second chord along the east to north side of the triangle has yet to appear.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Kj30pBzxsHE
I hope the above information and links might be of some use to you - and perhaps to users of the CRS web site. Any factual errors are mine - and not those of the CRS!
Kind regards,
Derek
Bishops Lydeard 5 miles from Taunton

5542 is a GWR 4575 Class 2-6-2T "small prairie" tank engine which was built in 1928 and withdrawn by British Railways in December 1961, she spent the next fourteen years in a scrapyard before being acquired for preservation.
After many years of hard work restoring her she entered traffic on the West Somerset Railway in autumn 2002, she has since moved to work on a number of other heritage lines . Copyright John Cornelius
Looking around Bishops Lydford with Chris Osment.
As a not too frequent visitor to the WSR, I'd asked for views of what lies at the back of the main station building and along the approach road. Chris replies " Hope these satisfy your curiosity!"
The ‘cottages’ are in the bend of the approach road on the down side. As they were built for the railway I am /assuming/ they were for staff purposes, though AFAIK now they are in private hands. I believe the SM’s house is also private, certainly not WSR use at the moment. The ‘T M R G’ building is a WSR-era structure built to infill the space between the station building and the good shed and houses the Taunton Model Railway Group.
The ‘cottages’ are in the bend of the approach road on the down side. As they were built for the railway I am /assuming/ they were for staff purposes, though AFAIK now they are in private hands. I believe the SM’s house is also private, certainly not WSR use at the moment. The ‘T M R G’ building is a WSR-era structure built to infill the space between the station building and the good shed and houses the Taunton Model Railway Group.
One last look around - the very well equipped Gauge Museum
Crowcombe Heathfield 9 miles from Taunton

An often forgotten item of Crowcombe Heathfield is the Lamp Hut. Seen here on the 29th March 2014. It looks as if the plant sprouting from a redundant chimney pot is about to be refreshed as a young cyclist is witnessing, one wonders what the conversation is? Note the smart fire buckets hanging from the rest. Copyright Chris Osment
As part of his detailed survey of the current Crowcombe Heathfield Chris writes :- Apart from the ‘Lamp Hut’ on the Up platform at Crowcombe near the station building, there is another, larger hut a bit further along towards Taunton, but set higher up at the top of the embankment by the access road. This is used for storing gardening equipment etc.
I have been advised now that neither hut is a CH ‘original’. The origin of the Lamp Hut is unknown, but is believed to have been recovered by WSR Association volunteers from somewhere in the Bristol area. The other (larger) hut apparently used to be the Goods Office at Flax Bourton.
I have been advised now that neither hut is a CH ‘original’. The origin of the Lamp Hut is unknown, but is believed to have been recovered by WSR Association volunteers from somewhere in the Bristol area. The other (larger) hut apparently used to be the Goods Office at Flax Bourton.

Crowcombe Heathfield Down shelter on the 3rd of August 2013 Just like the up building this shelter is in an immaculate state of repair. It is well provided with milk churns, a seat and litter box. Lurking to the right in shadows is a delivery bicycle complete with front basket and steadying legs. To the left a platform trolley loaded with various leather bags sits waiting for the next service down the line. Copyright Chris Osment

3rd October 2013 was indeed a pleasant day as can be seen from this picture looking towards Stogumber, obviously trains are not to be long coming in both directions. The station staff chatter. From the direction everybody is looking it is likely that the sound of an approaching train from Stogumber has been heard and they all wait in anticipation although the boards have not been pulled off yet. Copyright Chris Osment
Stogumber 11 3/4 miles from Taunton
Many thanks to Chris Osment for this quite detailed look at a quiet country station.

Stogumber Station on the 9th August 2010, a general view from the Bishops Lydeard end. The station is unusual in that the main building, due to site constraints has to be on the opposite side of the line to the platform. Had goods facilities not been provided there would have been room for a platform on the up side of the line, but that was not to be. Goods facilities withdrawn in August 1963. There is a pedestrian access over the line from the Booking Office and car park by means of a board crossing. Further access is possible from the down side and the village by means of a steep footpath. Copyright Chris Osment

Almost exactly two years on and little has changed in this view, the tree is a little larger and a noticeboard and the sign over the doorway have been removed. Stogumber station building. This is on 29th March 2014 Stogumber station has also been renamed - the name changed to Portsmouth Arms for the 2014 'Withered Arm 'Spring Gala'. Copyright Chris Osment

South of the station, at the Taunton end, lies the cattle dock seen here looking quite pleasant on the 27th October 2007. The milepost has been nicely repainted. Also nearby was the site of a Goods Store. Friends of SR (Stogumber) are keen to rebuild the store, repair the cattle dock presently in a state of re-build, and perhaps install a short length of track compete with a restored wagon or two to create the 'old atmosphere'. Copyright Chris Osment

Seen from the station garden is Stogumber station platform complete with the new Waiting Room. The platform has rotted, been replaced and shortened at various times. Seen here on the 31st March 2012 and doesn't it look smart? The platform trolley is loaded with an assortment of trunks and cases. Copyright Chris Osment
Williton 15 miles from Taunton
Collapsed culvert at Williton.
Back in the 1960's BR experienced trouble with collapsed culvert just the Bishops Lydeard side of Williton station. Rather than repair the culvert, and as the line was likely to close anyway, they shortened the up loop thus singling the line over the culvert. The following two pictures from Derek Buttivant taken in September 2015 clearly show the alignment and the collapsed culvert. Many thanks to Derek
Back in the 1960's BR experienced trouble with collapsed culvert just the Bishops Lydeard side of Williton station. Rather than repair the culvert, and as the line was likely to close anyway, they shortened the up loop thus singling the line over the culvert. The following two pictures from Derek Buttivant taken in September 2015 clearly show the alignment and the collapsed culvert. Many thanks to Derek

Major engineering works - lenthening to loop at Williton to increase the effective length of the up platform which had been shortened in BR Days. 26th January 2016 Copyright Rob Lindley
Note - Chris Osment also advises that the facing point on the down main by the signalbox has been replaced by plain track.
Robert Lindley writes Extension of the loop at Williton. The WSR has decided to re-instate the full length of the loop at Williton, so trains have use of the full length of the platform (needed in peak season). This was shortened in the early 1960’s when the culvert bridge needed replacing, so BR in their wisdom only replaced one side.
The old points position can be seen just behind the mini digger. The new bridge girders for the lengthened loop can be seen over the culvert, but not yet in the final position. The level crossing had to be completely dug up, tracks relayed and re-tarmacked. The “home” signal, the post of which can be seen centrally under the bridge, has also been moved further out, with the up starter, at present about 2 coach lengths down the platform, yet to be moved. Robert Lindley - Many thanks for the picture and information Rob
The old points position can be seen just behind the mini digger. The new bridge girders for the lengthened loop can be seen over the culvert, but not yet in the final position. The level crossing had to be completely dug up, tracks relayed and re-tarmacked. The “home” signal, the post of which can be seen centrally under the bridge, has also been moved further out, with the up starter, at present about 2 coach lengths down the platform, yet to be moved. Robert Lindley - Many thanks for the picture and information Rob
Chris Osment kindly adds the following additional information. Re the photo and comments about the work at Williton. This is a complex project which has had to be done in a number of stages during the relatively short winter periods without scheduled services.
The existing Up Starting signal (No 4) will NOT be moved, instead an additional Starting signal (No 5) will be added just in rear of the new trap points. Apart from the actual loop extension, there is much additional signalling work to be done, which will include an extensive re-locking of the lever-frame and a new instrument shelf in the signal-box. This work will be completed during the 2106/17 winter period and the complete new layout will be implemented next year. Although there will be a longer loop during 2016, that is probably all that will be noticeable to causal observers for the time being. Regards Chris
Many thanks for this additional information Chris.
The existing Up Starting signal (No 4) will NOT be moved, instead an additional Starting signal (No 5) will be added just in rear of the new trap points. Apart from the actual loop extension, there is much additional signalling work to be done, which will include an extensive re-locking of the lever-frame and a new instrument shelf in the signal-box. This work will be completed during the 2106/17 winter period and the complete new layout will be implemented next year. Although there will be a longer loop during 2016, that is probably all that will be noticeable to causal observers for the time being. Regards Chris
Many thanks for this additional information Chris.
From Rob Lindley 21st February 2016 Hi Keith, Please find attached a picture of the finished culvert and extended loop at Williton on the WSR as promised. The new works being the left hand side. You can see the remains of the original point which marks the start of the old loop on the right hand track. For the first time since the 60's up trains can use the full length of the platform. Cheers Rob Lindley Many thanks Rob
Doniford Halt Built in 1988 using platform sections from Montacute and the pagoda hut from Cove.
Watchett 16 3/4 miles from Taunton

By way of comparison we go back to this view from the Mike Morant Collection. Mike adds that he received the following comments from a Railwest viewer. :- Sidings still in situ though little used. What is interesting is that there is no sign of the West Ground Frame nor of the facing point lock or of any rodding to the yard exit point. Freight traffic ceased in July 1964 and the sidings were lifted soon after. This fact dates this picture to being between closure and lifting - about 1965. Just visible on the letf hand side is the ex B&ER signal box closed in 1926 and used for staff/storage purposes thereafter. It was essentially 3-storey, but the top floor was removed (and the roof lowered in 1961, it was demolished probably in 1967.
Between Watchet and Washford. With reference to the views below Chris Osment advises - I confess I had to "ask a friend" , but the answer is that they are near
Kentsford crossing (between Watchet and Washford). In which case, the view
is looking south-ish from the high ground north of the line, so it is a Down
train in both cases.
Washford 19 miles from Taunton

Washford station during the Somerset and Dorset weekend 25th March 2006 Copyright Sid Sponheimer. The ‘hut on the left’ is in fact the structure of the old GWR Washford Signalbox still in situ, but it now houses a representation of the interior of the former S&DJR Midford box. The ‘small items’ part of the S & D R T’s museum collection is housed in the former waiting room in the main station building, whilst larger items are in various buildings and wagons etc in the yard. Thanks to Chris Osment for this information.
Blue Anchor 21 1/4 miles from Taunton
Background Notes on Blue Anchor kindly supplied by Chris Osment
The original 1874 station was a single platform on the Up side of the single-line, but in 1904 a passing-loop and Down platform were added. At the west end of the station there is a level-crossing with four gates, which are now the only such set in the West Country still worked by a wheel in the signal-box. To the west of the level-crossing a small goods yard with one siding was opened in 1913, but this was closed in 1963. The siding was removed prior to the re-opening of the line by the WSR, but there is now a short length of unconnected track which is home to three camping coaches. The current signal-box was opened in 1904 as a replacement for a smaller structure on the same site and is equipped with a 17-lever frame with GWR ‘stud’ locking; this is now the only ‘stud’ lever-frame in the UK still operational in its original signal-box on its original site.
At the Taunton end of the loop the facing point is unusual in that it lies ‘normal’ for the right-hand (Up) line, rather than the left-hand (Down) line, and there is also a sprung trailing catch-point at the exit from the Up loop. This arrangement is a hang-over from the days of ‘unfitted’ freight trains and ensured that any runaway wagon down the gradient from Washford would be derailed at the catch-point rather than pass along the Down loop and potentially crash the level-crossing gates. In recent years the facing point was converted to motor operation, as the old mechanical rodding was becoming troublesome and in any case the point was beyond the permitted distance for mechanical operation. The facing point at the Minehead end is still operated mechanically and its Facing Point Lock is now the only one on the WSR still protected by a mechanical ‘lock bar’ rather than an electrical track-circuit.
The brick-built station building is the original 1874 structure, although with some later alterations. To the east of this there is a wooden waiting shelter which is a WSR-era replacement for an earlier shelter which had fallen into disrepair. Next along the Up platform is a brick-built ladies toilet believed to have been built in 1904, with an odd-shaped angled rear wall necessary to clear the railway boundary fence. On the Down platform is a 1904 brick-built waiting shelter, which now houses the Blue Anchor Railway Museum. Also on that platform close to the level-crossing is a GWR corrugated-iron goods lock-up shed provided circa-1912, whilst at the entrance to the old goods yard there is a typical GWR corrugated-iron lamp-hut.
Further information on Blue Anchor
kindly supplied by Rob Lindley
The original wooden waiting shelter had to be taken down before the line re-opened as it was too far gone to repair. The new replacement was erected in the mid 1980’s – I know as I built it! The Goods lock-up is a replacement for the original that was removed by BR. I can’t remember where it came from, but was recovered by the WSRA. The lamp hut on the other side of the level crossing is original. The main station building has always been thought of as an adaption of an original building, as about 4 inches underneath the traditional wooden floor is a stone flag floor. This was discovered when inserting the ticket barrier at the booking office window! Also, the cost of the building at Blue Anchor is considerably less than Dunster & Washford when built. The building style is also completely different. The Station lighting was installed in the late 80’s, using original cast iron lamp posts, sourced from many sites. These replaced the 1930’s large concrete posts that would have had tilly lamps wound up and down. The reinforcing within the concrete was corroding from the effects of the salt air and were in danger of collapsing. The lamp tops are new replicas, all electric and can be switched on from the Signal Box.
kindly supplied by Rob Lindley
The original wooden waiting shelter had to be taken down before the line re-opened as it was too far gone to repair. The new replacement was erected in the mid 1980’s – I know as I built it! The Goods lock-up is a replacement for the original that was removed by BR. I can’t remember where it came from, but was recovered by the WSRA. The lamp hut on the other side of the level crossing is original. The main station building has always been thought of as an adaption of an original building, as about 4 inches underneath the traditional wooden floor is a stone flag floor. This was discovered when inserting the ticket barrier at the booking office window! Also, the cost of the building at Blue Anchor is considerably less than Dunster & Washford when built. The building style is also completely different. The Station lighting was installed in the late 80’s, using original cast iron lamp posts, sourced from many sites. These replaced the 1930’s large concrete posts that would have had tilly lamps wound up and down. The reinforcing within the concrete was corroding from the effects of the salt air and were in danger of collapsing. The lamp tops are new replicas, all electric and can be switched on from the Signal Box.
Note from Rob Lindley
The original wooden waiting shelter at Blue Anchor had to be taken down before the line re-opened as it was too far gone to repair. The new replacement was erected in the mid 1980’s – I know as I built it! Smashing job - well done.
The original wooden waiting shelter at Blue Anchor had to be taken down before the line re-opened as it was too far gone to repair. The new replacement was erected in the mid 1980’s – I know as I built it! Smashing job - well done.
Blue Anchor Signalbox examined
Views from the signalbox at Blue Anchor

Blue Anchor View of back of box and station building on the 20th June 2009 Although there was a public entrance from the road at the rear (you can see the steps, path and porch), this has not been used for a long time because of safety issues with traffic problems and the lack of a pavement on the ‘blind bend’ behind the station. The hedge in the picture has been removed recently and replaced by a new fence. Public access to the ticket office etc is via the Up platform. Copyright Chris Osment
Don't forget to read the detailed notes on Blue Anchor by Chris Osment and Robert Lindley at the beginning of this collection of pictures.
Sea Lane Crossing at Dunster (About 170 yards east of the east end of Dunster platform)
Dunster 23 miles from Taunton
Older pictures
Older pictures
Dunster Very interesting and detailed background notes supplied by Chris Osment :-
There are two level-crossings at Dunster. The one at the east end is Sea Lane, on quite a busy road to the local beach. There was a crossing-keeper here, with a GF released from the SB. The one at the west end is now called Dunster West, on a minor road to just a few houses and a farm etc, with the gates locked by the SB. When the WSR took over, as they did not need a SB at Dunster and so, to avoid the need to man two LCs all the time, Sea Lane crossing became a AOCL (Automatic Open Crossing Locally-monitered, ie just road lights, no barriers) and the West crossing became just an Open crossing – ie warning signs only, no lights. The SB was moved to Minehead. The old crossing-keeper’s cottage at Sea Lane survived in private hands, but a few years ago it was demolished and replaced by a new house on virtually the same site. The original station building and goods shed survive in railway use. The WSR relayed the sidings and the yard is used by the PW department. The nearby stationmaster’s house also survives in private hands (not photographed). Although most WSR stations are now in GWR livery, Dunster has been kept largely (but not entirely) in the BR(WR) colour scheme. The line from Dunster to Minehead is dead straight and (almost) level) and those with very good eyesight can stand on the platform at DR and watch the steam rise as trains pull away from MD! The station also houses an old printing press which keeps the railway well-stocked with ‘proper’ Edmondson-like card tickets :-) The station is about a mile or so from Dunster village, but during the summer months there is often a free vintage bus shuttle service to take passengers to/from the village and castle.
Dunster
More recent pictures
More recent pictures
The Dunster Goods
Near Minehead
Minehead level crossing
Statement concerning work on the level crossing at Minehead please click below:- https://www.railadvent.co.uk/2021/06/west-somerset-railway-release-seaward-way-railway-level-crossing-statement.html
Minehead 24 3/4 miles from Taunton
We start with the signalbox.perhaps one of the most important parts of the station.
Now going back to the start of our collection we look at the station buildings in 1977.
Good morning Keith, your mention of hymeks on the Minehead branch,prompted me to look out the two pics enclosed,which is of D7029 at Minehead on 20-8-1970, the only two pics I have of it.
Having worked a morning stopping train down,it then worked a mid morning through train to London.
I travelled down and back to Taunton on this train,being the first time I had ever travelled over the branch to Minehead. But look at the desolation at Minehead station then,only a few months from closure and compare this pic with what is there today. The WSRLY have done wonders with the station
over the years, from a run down state when the line closed in January 1971, to the really vibrant and upbeat station it is today. enjoy the pics cheers JOHN C.
Having worked a morning stopping train down,it then worked a mid morning through train to London.
I travelled down and back to Taunton on this train,being the first time I had ever travelled over the branch to Minehead. But look at the desolation at Minehead station then,only a few months from closure and compare this pic with what is there today. The WSRLY have done wonders with the station
over the years, from a run down state when the line closed in January 1971, to the really vibrant and upbeat station it is today. enjoy the pics cheers JOHN C.
An extremely interesting and detailed item on this signalbox by Kevin Weston can be obtained by clicking here :- http://www.signalbox.org/branches/kw/minehead.htm

Good morning Keith, I wish the pic had been 7823, as it was my last manor which I saw at Aberystwyth in Aug 1961, but sadly was inside the shed,so I never got a pic. The pic of the loco is actually 7828,but what makes it look like 7823, is the smoke box door handle is at angle and partially covering the eight, thus giving the impression it is a three. hence the illusion,hope this answers your query. I'm really enjoying the web at present with all the multitude of items coming through. excellent. CHEERS JOHN C. Many thanks for the explanation and your picture John, I was confused.
Installation of the Turntable at Minehead.
A little bit of history This is a precis from the publication 'Return of the Minehead Turntable' - the full document is available on their website. The turntable was purchased from far off Pwllheli in 1974, the WSRA committee having agreed to undertake the cost and movement of the turntable over 300 miles. It is described as GWR 55 foot St. Blazey type on 1930 vintage - all the better reason for saving it!! The removal from Pwllheli Goods Yard was a two day operation, however all went well despite some nasty weather. At 2pm on 3rd April 1979 the turntable arrived at Minehead. Here are some pictures from the Chris Osment collection of the turntable at Minehead.
Some more information on the ex Pwllheli Turntable kindly supplied by Rob Lindley Before installation at Minehead, it was decided to lengthen the Turntable to take the biggest engines in preservation and was extended at each end. If you look at the “before” and “after” photos, you will see the table has grown from 9 sections to 11. The Turntable went away to a firm in Birmingham, I believe, to have the work done. As you can see a fantastic job was done, as it is very difficult to detect now!
Butlins Minehead

London Brighton & South Coast Railway Terrier Tank at Minehead rescued from the Butlins Holiday Camp. This picture 3rd September 1978 Copyright Roger Winnen N.B. While we use the term 'rescued' from Butlins one must accept that had Butlins not 'rescued' the Terrier in the first place it could have well gone to the scrapmen!