It was great to see Class 40 D213 40013 Andania back in service after a thorough 20+ year restoration looking and sounding great. Hats off to the owners and everyone involved as the restoration looks top notch.
It seemed very strange to see Deltic 55007 Pinza again, even though we know it is 55022 Royal Scots Grey in disguise. I’m not overly sure about the concept of disguising loco identities but the commercial aspects for the owner is obvious. Nevertheless it was great to see an ex works condition Finsbury Park racehorse coloured Deltic, complete with white cab surrounds again.
Both small Sulzer Type 2 locos Class 25 D7628 (25278) and 26038 sounded great and 37264 looked good as an authentic Scottish large logo class 37.
From an operating point of view 26038 didn’t have the best of weekends, failing on both the Friday and Saturday. Saturdays failure caused quite significant delays. From a trading point of view we had a good couple of days despite the seemingly low number of attendees.
We are very much looking forward to going back to the NYMR railway for their Autumn Steam Gala running from 30th Sept to 2nd October.
We are at several other events this summer so drop by and see our unique pictures and digital paintings.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”80″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” txt_align=”center” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up!” btn_custom_background=”#0098da” btn_custom_text=”#fffffd” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F|title:Subscribe%20and%20never%20miss%20an%20update!|”]Subscribe and never miss an update![/vc_cta][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Share this overview of the NYMR 70s Gala with your friends and colleagues …. thanks! [juiz_sps buttons=”facebook, twitter, google, pinterest, digg, linkedin, stumbleupon, mail”]
Just before we dash off for the NYMRs 70s diesel Gala and Cosford airshows this weekend, I wanted to give a quick update on whats happening in the GDMK Images world. Firstly you can find out about the wall art, digital painting and gifts updates or jump to the editorial pictures update
I think the cover picture sums up June so far in the UK!![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Wall Art Pictures and Digital Paintings
I have released several new pictures and digital paintings over the last couple of weeks. I have been working through the thousands of pictures taken on our tedontourusa trip. These are being added slowly to my Alamy Editorial collection with a smaller amount added to the wall art galleries.
Gift Products
I have been trying out different suppliers for my gift products. I am really happy with my chosen suppliers, new and old. These suppliers are, as you would expect, providing top quality products. You might find things slightly cheaper elsewhere, but I am confident you wont find this quality, of both pictures and products, at our prices.[/vc_column_text][ess_grid alias=”GDMK-Images-2016-Picture-and-Gift-Update”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row el_id=”june-2016-editorial-upicture-update”][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Editorial Pictures
Pictures from the recent America trip are being added to my Alamy collection. The collection is broken down into lightboxes based on subject matter i.e. aircraft, railways, urban, people etc.
Currently I have been adding scenes from New York and a visit to Fort Lauderdale airport.
We have lots of shows coming up after this weekends NYMR 70s Diesel Gala and Cosford Airshow (which are perfect opportunities to get some awesome last minute Fathers Day presents!!).
We will be at the Lincolnshire County Show, Nene Valley Railway Mail Event, Derby Night Market, Flywheel Festival and Flying Legends in the coming weeks so there is plenty of chances to come and say hi – even if its only to see Ted!
Anyway, times ticking and we need to be on the road towards beautiful Yorkshire. If you are going to be at the North Yorks Moors Railway on Friday or Saturday or Cosford airshow on Sunday come and say hi – we love to meet our subscribers!
Thanks for reading and all the best
Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”80″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” txt_align=”center” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up!” btn_custom_background=”#0098da” btn_custom_text=”#fffffd” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F|title:Keep%20up%20to%20date%20all%20with%20all%20new%20picture%20and%20art%20releases|”]
Share the GDMK Images June 2016 Update with your friends and colleagues …. thanks! [juiz_sps buttons=”facebook, twitter, google, pinterest, digg, linkedin, stumbleupon, mail”]
Today has been one of those non-descript grey November days.
After getting todays orders sorted, I felt like today was a black and white day.
After going through my archives I found a number of pictures that I thought might work well with a black and white treatment.
I selected three pictures of BR Standard Class 9F steam loco 92214 at work on the Great Central Railway in Leicestershire.
The first picture shows steam gently engulfing the loco as it stands at the end of one of its runs.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_single_image image=”18140″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” add_caption=”yes” link=”https://gdmkimages.co.uk/shop/railway-pictures-and-gifts/railway-wall-art/class-9f-92214-steam-loco-wall-art-prints/”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Next a powerful head on image of the giant 9F steam loco.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”18107″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” add_caption=”yes” link=”https://gdmkimages.co.uk/shop/railway-pictures-and-gifts/railway-wall-art/black-white-9f-92214-steam-loco-wall-art-prints/”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Lastly I have a side view of the powerful locos running gear with a LMS Ivatt Class 2 gently steaming in the background.[/vc_column_text][vc_single_image image=”18108″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”custom_link” img_link_target=”_blank” add_caption=”yes” link=”https://gdmkimages.co.uk/shop/railway-pictures-and-gifts/railway-wall-art/class-9f-92214-loughborough-wall-art-prints/”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The 9F locos were a powerful and successful class of steam locos. The Class 9F locos were the last of the British Railways Standard Designs. These powerful locos were designed for heavy, long distance, freight trains and were one of the most powerful steam locomotive types ever built for use in Britain.
Of the original 251 9F locos built by British railways, 9 have survived into preservation. Of these 9, several are operational at various preserved railways around the country.
If steam trains are your thing, you won’t need much encouragement to go and see one of these fine machines in operation. If you are a casual railway fan, then I do heartily recommend you take the opportunity to see one of these enormous relics from the age of when Britain was good at making things.
While you are there, consider chucking a handful of change in any collection buckets, as these mighty machines cost a fortune to keep in working condition.
Thanks for reading my post, these pictures are available to buy from the GDMK Images online shop. Please feel free to leave your comments below
Cheers for now
Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”80″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” txt_align=”center” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up I want to save 10% on my purchase!” btn_custom_background=”#0098da” btn_custom_text=”#fffffd” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F|title:Subscribe%20and%20save%2010%25%20off%20your%20next%20wall%20art%2C%20phone%20case%20or%20t-shirt%20purchase!|”]Subscribe and save 10% off your next wall art, phone case or t-shirt purchase![/vc_cta][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Share news of these new black and white steam train pictures with your family and railway enthusiast friends …. thanks!
Some of these pictures are also available to buy as wall art and personalised gifts – follow the links on the pictures to buy as stock or wall art and gifts.
The update features images of diesel locos from the 1970s and 1980s on and around the Severn Valley Railway.
The pictures includes scenes at the main stations and some of the classic diesel locos including class 50, class 52 and class 55 locos.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ess_grid alias=”70s_80s_Railways”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″ css=”.vc_custom_1443099097328{padding-left: 0px !important;}”][vc_column_text css=”.vc_custom_1445371015759{border-top-width: 1px !important;border-right-width: 1px !important;border-bottom-width: 1px !important;border-left-width: 1px !important;background-color: #fffffd !important;border-left-color: #0098da !important;border-left-style: solid !important;border-right-color: #0098da !important;border-right-style: solid !important;border-top-color: #0098da !important;border-top-style: solid !important;border-bottom-color: #0098da !important;border-bottom-style: solid !important;border-radius: 4px !important;}”]
The update features images of people and Classic Cars at the Classic Car show in Hinckley during September.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ess_grid alias=”hinckley-classic-car-show”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
More Editorial Stock Pictures Coming
I have another sizeable batch of editorial stock pictures featuring more 1970s and 80s railway scenes, modern aircraft from air displays this past summer, general modern railway scenes and a number of autumn themed pictures.
This batch should be ready for upload towards the end of next week or early the following week.
All of these upcoming releases will be added as editorial stock on Alamy but a number will also be suitable for wall art and adding to gift products.
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The Severn Valley Railway is a preserved railway that runs 16 miles between Kidderminster and Bridgnorth. As with most of todays heritage railways, the line fell victim to the rationalisations that ravaged the railways in the 1960s. Even before the infamous Beeching Report, the Severn Valley Railway was recognised as economically unviable and identified as a candidate for closure.
The railway ran from Hartlebury through to Shrewsbury. Construction started in 1858 with final completion coming in 1862. Stations were located at Stourport-on-Severn, Bewdley, Arley, Highley, Hampton Loade, Bridgnorth, Coalport, Ironbridge, Buildwas, Cressage and Berrington.
Primary traffic for the line was coal from the collieries at Alveley and Highley. The line was never considered as financially successful.
The railway became part of the Great Western Railway in 1870.
The Great Western Railway built a link from Bewdley to Kidderminster in 1878. This connection allowed traffic access to the Black Country and West Midlands.
The line played a useful role during the Second World War as a diversion route around the Midlands.
Through passenger and freight services ended during 1963. The line was removed north of Bridgnorth soon afterwards.
Coal traffic continued from Alveley until 1969. Passenger services from Bewdley to Kidderminster and Hartlebury lasted until 1970.
Preservation Beginnings
In 1965 a group of local enthusiasts formed the Severn Valley Railway Society.
Their aim was to buy the section of line from Bridgnorth through to Alveley Colliery sidings near Highley.
The societies hard work was rewarded in 1970 when the first train services ran between Bridgnorth and Hampton Loade.
By 1973 sufficient funds allowed purchase of the the line from Alveley Colliery sidings, through to Highley, Arley and Bewdley as far as Foley Park, near Kidderminster.
Services started running south to Bewdley in 1974 with occasional special trains running through to Foley Park.
The railway always knew a station and connection with the national railway network at Kidderminster was vital.
British Rail traffic to the British Sugar Corporation sidings at Foley Park ceased in 1982. This presented an opportunity to buy the 1 ½ miles of railway through to Kidderminster Junction. At the same time, an agreement to lease the old Kidderminster Goods Yard from British Rail allowed the dream of a station at Kidderminster to become reality.
The new Severn Valley Railway station at Kidderminster came into use in 1984. Finally trains were able to run over the full length of the Severn Valley Railway as we know it today.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Overview of the Severn Valley Railway Today
Today, the Severn Valley Railway is a far cry from the economically unviable railway of the early 20th Century.
The railway is predominantly operated by steam locos with a small number of services, mainly at weekends, operated by classic diesel locos. The Severn Valley Railway is the home of many types of steam and diesel locos.
Many railway preservation societies call the Severn Valley Railway their home including –
Each of these societies are focused on preserving and operating many different types of loco, coaching stock and infrastructure but each contributes to the Severn Valley Railways success. When you have read this article, please take a few minutes to read about their organisations as they deserve much support.
All stations are maintained in typical Great Western Railway styles and colours and the railway retains its authentic Great Western Railway lower quadrant signals.
Moving away from the locos, the Severn Valley Railway operates classic period rolling stock. Of particular note is the railways achievement in running full rakes of coaches from defined periods. Many railways find themselves in a position where their coaches are a mix and match of styles and eras.
The Severn Valley Railway can proudly boast its ability to run full rakes of rolling stock from the following railway companies
Great Western Railway
London Midland and Scottish Railway
London and North Eastern Railway
1950s/1960s British Rail
The LNER rake is particularly eyecatching with its varnished teak panelled exterior.
As well as running regular steam and diesel timetabled services, the Severn Valley Railway has regular theme days to attract visitors including
Steam galas featuring many visiting steam locos
Diesel galas where the service is operated by classic diesel locos
Most visitors start their journey at Kidderminster, which is ironically the railways newest station and modelled on the original Great Western Railway station at Ross on Wye.
Kidderminster mainline station is directly adjacent to its mainline counterpart, being only a short walk across the cobbled station frontage. This provides a convenient connection for visitors using the main railway network.
At Kidderminster station you will also find the Kidderminster Railway Museum (www.krm.org.uk) and the Coalyard Miniature Railway.
Bewdley has three platforms and was originally the junction station for trains to Hartlebury or Kidderminster. Adjacent to the station is a goods yard full of wagons and coaching stock.
Highley is a small station but also home to The Engine House. There is only one platform but several lines through the station. This a reminder of the areas important mining past and that industries reliance on the railway to get its produce to the market.
The Engine House at Highley is an interesting visitor and education centre. On display are several steam locos for you to get up close to and get a real sense of the immense size and presence of a full-size steam loco.
Another item of interest is an original Post Office sorting vehicle. Inside you can see how mail was sorted on the go by mailmen in days gone by.
On the upper floor is an excellent cafe and viewing terrace which allows great views of passing trains.
[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid item=”2915″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1480361748635-de2b9bec-7682-0″ include=”2908″][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/5TV5MDwb5V8″ title=”View From The Engine House Cafe Balcony”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Hampton Loade Station
Hampton Loade is a beautiful station that seems to be in the middle of nowhere. Trains pass here allowing you the chance to change trains.
The Severn Valley Railways northern terminus station. The buildings date back to the railways original opening in 1862, albeit with numerous changes in that time.
Bridgnorth has a locomotive works and yard. You can get an overview of the works from the platform and station overbridge but access is not allowed.
I suppose this is due to that dreaded ‘Health & Safety’ mantra that dominates the modern world – whatever happened to using common sense and taking responsibility for your own health and safety? Please, don’t get me started![/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Photographic Opportunities
On The Railway Photographic Opportunities
There are many factors besides the meticulously restored stations, locomotives and coaching stock that makes the Severn Valley Railway so rich in photographic opportunities.
Each station provides fantastic opportunities for capturing or recreating period scenes. You can document the operational activities of a busy railway scene. Guards and Station Masters interact with the public, drivers attend to their locos and massive locos ooze atmosphere alongside authentic signalling equipment. There is much to inspire photographers.
The attention to detail means many period still life set pieces are everywhere including authentic signage and period baggage.
Interesting pictures can be had at the north end of Arley Station. Trains pass here and you can get some nice images of the trains passing. At the north end of the Platform is a grassy picnic area with a restricted view to the north. You can get shots of the southbound service arriving with the loco of the northbound service in the foreground. Afternoons are better due to the suns position.
At Highley, cross the bridge and walk northwards past the signalbox. Pick a point along the fence to get pictures of southbound services coming round the bend. The trains approach head on before entering the station. Telephoto lenses create a compressed field of vision for this shot. Afternoons are better when the sun has moved around.
The overbridge at Bridgnorth station provides a useful viewpoint of the yard as well as views of trains ready to depart southwards. The view southbound can be tricky with high contrast lighting being a problem most of the day.
The first location is still technically on the railway. The Engine House viewing balcony is an excellent place to relax with a cuppa and view the trains coming and going from Highley Station. I recommend this location in the afternoon as the sun will have moved around sufficiently to light your subjects.
The railway meanders, as its name suggests, through the Severn Valley and at many points is close to the Severn River. At 16 miles in length, the railway passes over several level crossings, public footpaths and bridges, all of which provide lineside photo opportunities.
The Severn Way, a long distance footpath following the River Severn, provides several vantage points for photographing the railway between Arley and Highley stations.
The most well known of these spots features the Victoria Bridge passing over the River Severn just south of Arley Station. This location is a classic photography spot on the railway and features regularly in the railway press. As with the Engine House location at Highley, lighting is more favourable in the afternoon.
You can leave the train at Arley and walk down to the river. Follow the Severn Way northwards towards Highley. Along the Severn way you will encounter several locations that set the railway in context with the surrounding countryside. This walk should be undertaken in the morning to take advantage of the morning light. In the afternoon your scene will become backlit as the sun moves around.
If you were feeling adventurous, it is possible to walk from Bewdley through to Hampton Loade. You would follow Northwood Lane until you came to the Severn Way. The route generally follows the railway and provides many different opportunities to photograph passing trains.
I must stress in the strongest terms, DO NOT TRESPASS on the railway at any time, however exceptional you think your photo could be. Trespassing is illegal. Walking around a working railway is dangerous – trains WILL kill you. Your presence is a distraction for the staff who have a job to do. Ultimately, stupid acts of trespassing usually result in unnecessary tighter controls on those of us who do respect the railway environment.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Lasting Impression
My lasting impression of the Severn Valley railway is overwhelmingly positive. For a start the line is a good length and trains are regularly 7 or 8 carriages long meaning the locos have to work hard in places.
Each of the stations are impeccably restored and maintained to represent a working Great Western Railway allowing yourself to be immersed in the ambience of times long since passed.
Add in the fact that the railway passes through some stunning scenery and you have a winning formula.
The railway and the hosted preservation societies provide a nice mix of large and small locos mixed in with matching rakes of coaching stock.
The railway also has regular turns for the diesel fleet which I highly commend. A lot of people think of diesels as boring, but they nevertheless played an essential role in the history of Britains railways.
Preserved railways need to remember that many people won’t remember steam trains active on the ‘real railway’. I’m in my late 40s and never saw a steam train in service. My youth is full of BR Blue diesels with compartment stock working trains to various seaside resorts.
I hope you enjoyed this overview of the Severn Valley Railway. Please take a little time to visit the groups I have linked to as restoring and running railways is an expensive, unglamorous and time consuming labour of love. The groups deserve all the support and publicity they can get.
I would love to hear your views on what I have written and am only too happy to answer any questions you might have.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column_inner][/vc_row_inner][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”80″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” txt_align=”center” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up I want to save 10% on my purchase!” btn_custom_background=”#0098da” btn_custom_text=”#fffffd” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F|title:Subscribe%20and%20save%2010%25%20off%20your%20next%20wall%20art%2C%20phone%20case%20or%20t-shirt%20purchase!|”]Subscribe and save 10% off your next wall art, phone case or t-shirt purchase![/vc_cta][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Share this location report of the Severn Valley Railway with your friends and colleagues …. thanks! [juiz_sps buttons=”facebook, twitter, google, pinterest, digg, linkedin, stumbleupon, mail”]
I have added 12 new images to various wall art categories this morning.
The pictures feature the following subjects
Red Arrows
LMS Ivatt, GWR and Southern Bulleid Steam locos
British Rail Class 40 Diesel locos
Flowers
Belgian Air Force F-16
Black and white railway scenes
A selection of the new images are shown below …[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][ess_grid alias=”new-wall-art-1″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
New Images Available on Your Choice of Mounting
All the pictures in my wall art portfolios can be mounted on your choice of wall art product –
framed
wooden block
acrylic block
metallic
mobile phone case
[/vc_column_text][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” images=”2370,2357,2356″ img_size=”medium”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]More images are added every week so keep checking back, or why not subscribe to my newsletter and be notified automatically and save 10% on your first purchase?
Thanks for reading
Cheers
Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”80″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” txt_align=”center” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up I want to save 10% on my wall art purchase!” btn_custom_background=”#0098da” btn_custom_text=”#fffffd” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F|title:Subscribe%20and%20save%2010%25%20off%20your%20next%20wall%20art%2C%20phone%20case%20or%20t-shirt%20purchase!|”]
Subscribe and save 10% off your next wall art, phone case or t-shirt purchase!
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This photo walk is in Leicestershire and will take you on a 3 mile circular route from Sutton Cheney Wharf.
You will encounter a nice mix of scenery as it includes a walk along the Ashby Canal, through a wood and along a disused railway line giving plenty of varied photo opportunities.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Overview
The Sutton Cheney photo walk is just under 3 miles and pretty level so is suitable for most people.
Sometimes the canal tow path gets muddy so I suggest you wear good sturdy boots. I have included links to some of the places you will pass on this walk. The links provide more detailed information about what they have to offer.
There is a great canal side cafe well worth a visit at the end of your walk[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Sutton Cheney to Bosworth Battlefield Centre
The walk starts at Sutton Cheney Wharf where you can park your car.
You will encounter varied photographic subject matter on this photo walk. Scenery includes a walk along the Ashby Canal, through a wood and along a disused railway line providing plenty of varied photo opportunities
Once parked up in the car park (currently £1 but prices may alter), walk past the cafe and straight onto the trail.
The first section starts off skirting the edge of a field along the Ashby Canal. After a short walk you enter the first wooded section known as Ambion Wood.
There are a great deal of varied photo opportunities here.
In the spring it is full of blossom, summer brings a carpet of woodland flowers and the autumn has many different types of fungi.
Following the trail through the wood brings you out into a field.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Bosworth Battlefield Centre to Shenton Railway Station
Cross the field and you will find yourself at the Battle of Bosworth Visitor Centre. The whole area is rich in history with much information available on the famous battle of 1485.
The Battle of Bosworth Visitor Centre has a museum and another cafe.
Carry on up the small hill known as Ambion Hill and follow the path up towards the giant flag pole. You will come to the display commemorating the 1485 Battle of Bosworth.
The memorial is a huge sundial formed from a Pike style weapon hoisting a replica crown of King Richard III. Surrounding the sundial is a ring of red and white roses.
At the side of this flies a giant flag bearing Richards colours.
[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”7998″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”link_image”][vc_column_text]Richard IIIs crown hoisted upon a billhook which is part of the Battle of Bosworth memorial to the 1485 battle. Licence from Alamy[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][vc_column width=”1/2″][vc_single_image image=”7997″ img_size=”full” alignment=”center” onclick=”link_image”][vc_column_text]Richard IIIs house colours flying above the Battle of Bosworth Visitor centre. Licence from Alamy[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
The battle of Bosworth took place in 1485 and was the last major battle of the English civil war called the ‘War of the Roses’. This battle ended the Plantagenet line and heralded the start of the Tudor Dynasty.
There has been much interest since the discovery and reburial of Richards body.
The actual battle site location has been a matter of conjecture for a long time.
A couple of years ago, the exact site was found a few miles away. Richard IIIs standard flies over the memorial and from this point you can look across the countryside to the battlefield. The exact location is not disclosed to avoid trophy hunters disturbing the site.
Archaeological research is ongoing and will be for many years.
From the sun-dial continue along the trail down the side of the field. Along this section you will encounter several displays with audio and visual information about key players and their role in the battle.
This is the steepest and roughest part of the walk. Follow the path along the edge of the field. You will soon see Shenton railway station appear. Shenton is the southern terminus of the Battlefield Railway. Walk through two swing gates and you will arrive at the railway station.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_media_grid element_width=”6″ gap=”3″ filter_size=”md” include=”7999″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1557307650684-1e502dca-703c-0″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Shenton Railway Station to the Ashby Canal
Shenton railway station is one end of the ‘Battlefield Line’ steam railway which runs north to Shackerstone.
In 1873 the Midland and London North Western railway companies opened the Ashby and Nuneaton Joint Railway. Passenger services ended in 1931 and the line was finally closed to all traffic in 1964.
The line is now run as a preserved heritage railway between Shenton and Shackerstone. The railway is home to a small number of steam and heritage diesel locomotives.
Turning left at Shenton station the walk carries along the disused track bed.
Along this section are several pools to the side of the main walk. Some have bird spotting cabins where you can stop to sit and watch the birds.
As you walk along this disused section of railway, you see many apple trees – what are the chances these have grown from apple cores thrown out of passing train windows all those years ago?
When the blossom comes out it is a beautiful scene.
After approximately 3/4 mile you come to a derelict railway bridge that takes you over the Ashby canal.
Cross the bridge and walk down the side of the railway embankment to join the Ashby Canal tow path.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_media_grid element_width=”6″ gap=”3″ filter_size=”md” include=”8000,8001″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1557307650687-8ab002bd-800c-9″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Ashby Canal back to Sutton Cheney
The Ashby canal is 31 miles long and connected the Leicestershire mining districts with the Coventry Canal in Warwickshire.
The Ashby Canal opened in 1804 and remained profitable through to the 1890s. Today the canal is popular with leisure boaters and you will see many holiday canal boats on its waters.
Walk under the bridge along the canal for the last section of the walk.
This section is about 1 mile long and brings you back to the Wharf cafe at Sutton Cheney. A note of caution for this section. The tow path can get pretty muddy, particularly as you get nearer to Sutton Cheney, so it pays to have good footwear.
Once back at Sutton Cheney you will no doubt be ready for a well earned drink or snack in the cafe.
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Photographic Opportunities
This photo walk presents many options to photographers. You walk through varying types of scenery and pass by two local attractions. You will find much of interest to photograph whatever your preferred photographic inclinations are.
History and nature feature heavily throughout this walk. Ambion Wood provides plenty of opportunity for macro photography. Many Fungi and wildflower species are found in the undergrowth. Just remember not to stray off the edges of the pathway.
Shenton railway station and the Battlefield Line provide interest for those who enjoy railway photography. Preserved railways are good sources of material suitable for black and white photography.
The pools alongside the disused railway are a haven for wildlife. Many different species of bird, insect and flower can be found here.
The Ashby canal is busy with recreational narrowboats. The canal and colourful boats provide plenty of opportunities to get colourful abstract reflections. Wildlife is abundant alongside the canal. Those who enjoy wildlife photography have plenty of interesting subject matter.
Throughout the walk you will see many different types of flower and plant species. Nature photographers in particular will find plenty of interest to photograph.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
I hope you have enjoyed my description of this walk and the sights and photo opportunities that are offered. Whatever your particular niche or preferred style of photography, I am sure you will find something of interest.
Thanks for reading, please feel free to leave comments below
Cheers
Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
The Great Central Railway is the only former double track main line operated as a heritage preserved railway in the UK. The original main line ran from Nottingham through Leicester, Rugby and on to London Marylebone.
The railway was another victim of the infamous 1960s ‘Beeching Report’ which also saw the closure of the railway between Matlock and Buxton as discussed in both my Peak Rail and Monsal Trail location reports.
After the railway was closed in the late 1960s, a group of enthusiasts got together to secure the line for future generations. In 1976 a small section was opened and the railway has grown steadily over the years to become one of the premier preserved railways in the UK.
The current preserved railway runs between Loughborough and Leicester North (Birstall) with stations at Quorn & Woodhouse and Rothley.
Interestingly the northern section, from Loughborough to Nottingham, is run as another separate preserved railway.
There is a gap between both railways of just over a mile. The gap includes a missing bridge that originally took the railway over the current Midland Main Line immediately south of the existing Loughborough main line station.
The Great Central Railway is in the process of raising around £1m to undertake the work necessary to join these two railways. The railway has raised around £750,000 towards its target, which is currently the largest infrastructure project in the preserved railway industry. Full details can be found at the ‘Bridge to the future’ page on the main Great Central Railway website
Loughborough
Loughborough Central is the main operating centre for the railway. You will find a large two platform station, signal box, water tower and loco servicing shed. The station is set out to evoke a 1950s feel complete with authentic period posters and fixtures. The railway staff are all dressed in appropriate uniforms which reinforces the impression of times gone by.
The signalbox is a Grade II listed building as it is the only surviving Great Central Railway signalbox.
The engine shed is accessible for viewing with supervised trips being available on running days.
Quorn and Woodhouse station represents the railway during the 1940s and has many interesting World War 2 features. Under the railway bridge is the air raid shelter which is decked out as a NAAFI style cafe and serves teas and coffees.
On certain days you will find the home guard walking around the station.
At the side of of the track on platform 2 is the ‘Dig for Victory’ garden which adds to the wartime theme.
Rothley station has been restored to depict the railway as it would have looked in 1912.
On the platforms you will find an authentic parcels office and waiting room.
All lighting on the platforms and inside the buildings is provided from authentic gas lamps which I am sure would create an excellent feel for any night photography.
Leicester North is a newly built station slightly south of the original Belgrave and Birstall station. The Belgrave and Birstall station fell into disrepair and suffered heavily from vandalism after closure of the station in the early 1960s.
Currently there is a single platform with a canopy, a waiting room and small cafe.
The railway has submitted a bid to the National Lottery Fund for £10m to build a museum here that will hold locomotives and historical artefacts from the National Railway Museum.
The railway very much embraces its main line heritage and provides many varied photographic opportunities.
On the date of our visit, the railway was hosting its annual Winter Steam Gala. The gala event featured 8 different steam locos operating an extremely intensive timetable that featured passenger trains, freight and Post Office trains.
Steam locos in attendance at the Winter Gala were
GWR 7820 ‘Dinmore Manor’
BR Pannier 1501
BR 7P 70013 ‘Oliver Cromwell’
LMS 8F 48624
SR 777 ‘Sir Lamiel’
BR Standard 78019
BR Standard 9F 92214
LMS 46521
The Great Central has a unique attraction in that it has a fully operational mail collection and delivery system. Back in the day, mail trains would drop off and collect mail from lineside equipment at speed without stopping. Demonstration runs of this equipment, complete with authentic Post Office carriages, are run on many dates throughout the year. Unfortunately the weather wasn’t conducive to getting good footage of this interesting aspect of railway operation.
In line with its role as a one of the big players on the Heritage Railway, the Great Central Railway has a busy and varied program of activities.
The photographic opportunities are plentiful. The railway has a sizeable fleet of steam locomotives and period rolling stock. It also has a mixed fleet of heritage diesel locos dating from the 1960s and 1970s for those not old enough to remember authentic steam working. All locos and coaching stock are painted in appropriate colour schemes for the time frame being depicted. There are no modern ‘gaudy’ colour schemes to ruin the authenticity of your photography.
As discussed, the 3 main stations are restored into differing periods of the lines historical operation which provides additional varied photographic material. In my view this is one of the better Heritage Railways for experimenting with black and white photography.
Something I intend to do is return on one of the railways 1960s weekends when the diesels are running. I want to try and capture a feel of the 1960s and 1970s and experiment with some retro colour film effects that could be appropriate for this subject matter.
The Great Central Railway doesn’t feature too many spots for photographing the operations from outside. Most of the vantage points are from overbridges which greatly restrict your creative options.
There are only a couple of spots that do allow taking photos from the surrounding countryside. Unfortunately that means that these spots get very busy, especially during the special event weekends.
The railway does run a scheme whereby members of the railway can apply for lineside passes. These passes allow you to walk lineside, after suitable training, during running operations. I haven’t explored this opportunity but it would definitely allow you to get some interesting vantage points.
The Great Central Railway is a great place to visit for any photographer looking to increase their portfolio of historic railway scenes. From the minute you enter the booking hall you are immersed into an authentic world of historic railway operation. The authenticity level is extremely high with the staff dressed in period clothing, restored stations and appropriately painted rolling stock and locos.
With such a high level of attention to detail, just about everything you see forms the basis for creative photography. As mentioned earlier, there is massive opportunity to experiment with black and white photography.
The engine shed provides opportunities for those who like trains, engineering and mechanical subjects. The staff are great for those with a penchant for people photography. The period set pieces on the platforms are great for creating mini scenes in themselves. My best advice is to take your time, look around, and see what catches your eye.
The best thing I found is that because there is so much to see, any non photographer accompanying you wont be standing there tutting and sighing asking “How many MORE do you want of that ‘xyz’ ?!?!?”
I hope you enjoy this location report. Please feel free to leave me feedback and let me know if I have missed anything of importance.
Cheers for now,
Gary
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