Sunday 20th September saw the 5th Hinckley Classic Car Show. The event showcases a wide array of classic cars and bikes.
The display area stretched the full length of Castle Street through the market Square and along Regent Street. Cars from every decade were on show to satisfy the huge crowds that turned out in massive numbers. It was great to see the look of joy and wonder on faces young and old. I haven’t seen Hinckley so busy for many years.
There were classic vehicles of every type and shape on view including the classic Morris, VWs, Minis and sports cars. Bike fans were also well catered for with dozens of Vespas and Lambrettas.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Videos of the 2015 Hinckley Classic Car Show
Below are a couple of short videos showing a selection of the Classic Cars. All my videos can be seen over on my GDMK Images youtube channel.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_raw_html]JTNDaWZyYW1lJTIwd2lkdGglM0QlMjI0MjAlMjIlMjBoZWlnaHQlM0QlMjIzMTUlMjIlMjBzcmMlM0QlMjJodHRwcyUzQSUyRiUyRnd3dy55b3V0dWJlLmNvbSUyRmVtYmVkJTJGX00wdEZqN3RXeHclMjIlMjBmcmFtZWJvcmRlciUzRCUyMjAlMjIlMjBhbGxvd2Z1bGxzY3JlZW4lM0UlM0MlMkZpZnJhbWUlM0U=[/vc_raw_html][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_video link=”https://youtu.be/zkumd-iP2gY”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]One surprise was the lack of trade and enthusiast stalls. With the significant crowds this was surely an oversight by the organisers. There must have been other local businesses, including mine, that would have benefited from this niche market. Also I noticed traders open on Rugby Road but the barriers at the end of Regent Street seemed to deter the crowds from wandering along to their shops. That definitely needs looking at for next year. With space for visiting cars stretched to the limit, here was an overlooked opportunity to accommodate some of the unexpected visitors that struggled to find space in the main display area.
Below is a selection of images I took and are available for editorial use from Alamy and picfair.[/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]I found plenty of inspiration for new digital art creations as motor vehicles and bikes are underrepresented in my portfolio.
The classic cars and bikes were a real tribute to their owners and their hard work and effort. Some of the customisations and paint jobs were simply stunning. Even the standard models, some 40, 50 even 60 years old looking as good as the day they rolled off the production line.
Even the weather obliged by providing some beautiful late summer sunshine! All in all the car show was very good and deserves to become a full time fixture on the classic car show scene.
Did you visit the 2015 Hinckley classic car Show? If so why not share your views?
I’ll look forward to hearing your thoughts, thanks for reading
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I have long wanted to travel Europe by train. I recently had a short notice opportunity to travel so decided to have a test run of European train travel. Prague and Budapest have been on my list of places to visit for a long time and were at the top of the list of destinations.
This two part article gives details on some of the sites I used to research and book the trip and features a selection of photography tips for anyone planning a visit to either Budapest or Prague.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Researching Flights and Train Travel
The Man in Seat Sixty-One website is my go-to site to find reliable information about European train travel. I recommend this site if you have any plans to travel Europe by train. If you haven’t considered using the train to get about in Europe then have a look. It may well surprise you how easy and cheap it can be. Looking through the seat 61 website, I found there was a direct train service between Prague and Budapest. Ticket prices were a bargain starting at only €19!
To maximise the available time in both cities, I chose to fly from the UK. The first site I check for cheap flights is Skyscanner. I find Skyscanner is useful because you can choose broad searches. I selected ‘UK’ as the departing airport and ‘Prague’ as the destination and in no time had a selection of flights and prices. I repeated the search to get results for Budapest flights. Comparing flight prices showed flights to Budapest were cheaper. It made sense then to start this trip with a flight to Budapest and then catch a train to Prague.
For return flights, I searched for ‘Prague’ as the departing airport and ‘UK’ as the destination. The first search showed the cheapest flight was £69. I decided to check neighbouring countries to see if there was anything cheaper. I quickly found I could get an Easyjet flight from Berlin Schonefeld to Luton for £19!
I went back to Seat 61 to see how easy it would be to get from Prague to Berlin by train. There was a straightforward service available priced at €39.
So travel wise, everything looked straightforward – a flight to Budapest, direct train from Budapest to Prague, train to Berlin and flight home.
I used Trip Advisor to find suitable accommodation. A couple of well reviewed places were available in both Budapest and Prague so the trip was viable.
I chose to stay for three nights at the Akademia Apartments in Budapest and then two nights at the Charles Bridge Hotel in Prague.
Modern travel is amazing, within 10 minutes I had
booked flights with Jet2 and Easyjet
checked in on both flights
printed boarding passes.
received confirmation for five nights accommodation in two different countries
I returned to Seat 61 to find out about train tickets. The first leg from Budapest to Prague needed booking via the Hungarian Rail Operators website. The site is fairly easy to navigate and buy tickets as there are English versions of the web pages. Be aware there is no print at home option for tickets. When you buy a ticket, you get the usual email confirmation. This confirmation is an e-ticket with a 10 digit reference code at the top. When you arrive in Hungary you need to visit a main railway station. Here you can print your tickets from the internet ticket printing machines. These are blue coloured ticket machines dotted around the stations. Enter your 10 digit reference number and your tickets will be printed.
To find ticket prices for the second train trip from Prague to Berlin, the Seat 61 site advises checking prices on both the German Rail Website and the Czech Rail websites. Prices can vary on each site so you may save some money. I bought tickets from the bahn.de site for €39 each plus €2 per person for a reserved seat. These tickets can be printed at home.
Budapest Airport Transfers
With the key elements of travel and accommodation booked, I researched the smaller items such as getting to our accommodation and the best ways of travelling around at each destination.
The Budapest by Locals website is packed with lots of useful information and is a good read for anyone thinking of travelling to Budapest. TripAdvisor forums are also a useful resource. I found two real nuggets of useful information.
The first nugget was from TripAdvisor. A lot of people were recommending the Budapest Airport Shuttle minibus transfer service. This service takes you straight from Budapest to the doorstep of your accommodation. You can book your transfer in advance. Your confirmation email will include a booking reference.
After collecting your baggage at Budapest airport, simply follow the lines on the floor marked ‘Airport Shuttle’. The lines guide you straight to their booking kiosk. Give the person your printed confirmation and your minibus will be arranged. You are usually asked to take a seat and await your accommodation name to be called. This service is cheap and efficient as it literally drops you off at the steps of your accommodation. The airport is 25km from Budapest city centre and takes about 40 minutes in the rush hour. Budapest driving could be politely described as ‘enthusiastic’ and the shuttle is recommended as a convenient way to avoid this enthusiasm!
Budapest Travel Card
The second nugget of advice involved advice on the public transport network in Budapest. Budapest has an excellent public transport network including buses, trams and metro system. Two travel cards are available – the Budapest Card and the Travel Card. Both cards include free travel on all public transport for a set period of 24, 48 or 72 hours. The difference is that the Budapest Card includes some free entry or discounts to specified attractions and discounts at certain restaurants.
I recommend one of these two cards if you want to use public transport to get around the city.
The 24 hour Budapest Card is 4900 HUF or €17 each
The 24 hour Travel Card is 1650 HUF each or €5.30
There is a lot of discussion about the relative value of each card. On this trip, I found the Travel Card gave the best value. We didn’t have enough time to visit a lot of the attractions but needed to get around easily and cheaply.
If you were visiting for two or three days and intended to visit and enter a lot of attractions, then I would recommend the Budapest Card.
If you were only visiting for two or three days and just needed to get about cheaply then I would recommend the Travel Card.
One thing to note is that there are a lot of venues and discounts included with the Budapest card. You will need to get about a lot to get the most value from the Budapest card.
You can choose to buy individual tickets for your tram or metro trips but be very wary and vigilant in your use of individual tickets. There are several different types of ticket available with differing conditions. You MUST validate your individual tickets BEFORE starting your journey at the red machines on the Metro or in the trams. Ticket inspectors are extremely vigilant in checking tickets. Should you be found to have an invalid or unvalidated ticket they are renown for being extremely firm with transgressors. Significant on the spot fines and threats of police intervention are frequently mentioned on forums by tourists caught out.
I highly recommend the use of a travel card if you intend to use public transport as they do not need validating in any way. You just show the ticket to the inspector when asked.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Accommodation
As mentioned earlier, I used Tripadvisor to find suitable accommodation.
Budapest
In Budapest, we booked 3 nights in the Akademia Apartments on Akademia Utca. This is a one bedroomed self-catering apartment. The apartment is perfect for a couple as it provides all you need for a quiet break. Akademia Utca runs parallel to the Danube one street back from the riverbank. The Parliament building is about 200yds from the front door. If you know Budapest then you will understand how perfect this location is. You are right on the No 2 Tram Line and 350yds from the Kossuth Lajos ter on Metro line 2. This is particularly useful if travelling by train as this Metro line takes you directly to Budapest Keleti railway station.
Prague
In Prague, I booked the Charles Bridge Residence which is about 50 yds on the castle side of the Charles Bridge. The location is absolutely perfect. The Charles Bridge Residence rooms are massive with equally big and comfortable beds. I must mention Michal, the owner, who greeted us and checked us into our room. He is a top guy, extremely friendly and helpful. He arranged no hassle taxi transfers to and from the railway station at a discount rate which were invaluable as we arrived mid evening and had to leave early morning.
I can’t recommend Budapest highly enough as a great destination for photographers, albeit with a slight caveat discussed further below.
There is just so much of photographic interest to see. Below is just a small selection from dozens of places of photographic interest.
Shoes on the Danube
Hungarian Parliament building
Margaret Island
Chain bridge
Buda Castle
Fishermans Bastion
Danube Promenade
As fantastic as these places are in the day, they are utterly transformed at night when illuminated.
Although Budapest is busy with people bustling around, I felt totally safe even with all my photo equipment. At night, I had my tripod over my shoulder with my camera attached walking around and felt safe. I did exercise caution at all times and was always on the lookout for potential problems but never once felt uncomfortable.
The people are extremely friendly and the city is beautiful. As you look around it seems inconceivable the city and people were witness to such brutality and horror for so long.
There are many photos of Budapest on the internet, all very similar, so one of my aims was to capture a different viewpoint on these iconic locations.
Below is a selection of my alternative views on Budapest with the odd classic viewpoint thrown in.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Shoes on the Danube and the Danube Promenade
The promenade provides a nice leisurely stroll along the River Danube. From the Promenade you get great views of the magnificent Buildings and attractions on both sides of the river.
The shoes on the Danube memorial consists of 60 pairs of 1940s period shoes. They commemorate the Jews who were lined up on the Danube’s riverbank bank, executed and whose bodies fell into the river during 1944 and 1945.[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid style=”load-more” items_per_page=”3″ gap=”3″ btn_add_icon=”true” btn_custom_onclick=”true” filter_size=”md” include=”36845,36844,36843″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1483967600932-ed90085e-6dac-1″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Hungarian Parliament Building
The architecture of the Parliament building is truly stunning. The building is of Neo-Gothic styling and was fully completed in 1902.[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid gap=”3″ filter_size=”md” include=”18179″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1483967600935-4ac36050-b635-8″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Chain Bridge
The Chain Bridge is one of the central tourist attractions and one of the main crossings when visiting the different attractions. There are lots of opportunities to take photos of, and from, the bridge.[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid element_width=”3″ gap=”3″ filter_size=”md” include=”18178,18177,18182,18181″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1483967600936-43862c54-e068-6″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Hungarian Photography Laws
So, after proclaiming the delights of photography in Budapest, here is the caveat mentioned in my introduction. In March 2014, the Hungarian government enacted a new ‘civil code’. The code makes it illegal to include a person in a photograph without their prior explicit permission.
If ‘Street Photography’, the capturing of candid day to day scenes, is your thing, then Hungary is not a country that should be high on your list of places to visit.
I have tried to find evidence of actual prosecutions under the modified ‘civil code’. To date, I can’t find any hard evidence of a prosecution for including a person in their photograph. Even so, I wouldn’t want to be the first and neither would you, so exercise caution when taking photographs in crowded areas.
I mentioned earlier how busy Budapest was. In reality, it is almost impossible to take general photographs without people appearing in the shot.
From a professional photographers standpoint, commercial photography in Hungary is fraught with potential problems. I have been reviewing the online collections of the major stock agencies. It seems there is a small number of images available with people in that obviously haven’t given permission. What I do see is a lot of ‘sterile’ photos without people.
What I take from this is that a small number of stock photographers are unaware of the ‘civil code’ changes. A larger number are aware and supplying ‘sterile’ people-less pictures.
That is a real shame as such a vibrant place deserves recording in its true beauty – of which people are a key ingredient.
The EU are studying the wider implications of Hungary’s civil code and is due to report in late June. Let’s hope the report clears up the situation for public photography in Hungary.
So, in summary, be careful if considering using your photography for commercial purposes.
Fortunately, an unintended consequence of the new code means there are plenty of reasons to experiment in close-ups, abstracts and long exposures!
If you are sensible with your people photography then I am sure there will be no problems. Nothing in my caveat detracts from the fact that Budapest is a stunning city, full of friendly people and I heartily recommend you to visit.
Thanks for reading, in part 2 I will focus on the trip from Budapest to Prague.
Please feel free to leave your thoughts and comments
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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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Below Are Links Direct To All My Railway Images For Sale and To Licence …..
Here is a quick update on what’s new in regard to this website.
A lot of time has been spent tweaking the user interface and aesthetics of the site. The aim is for visitors to quickly see whats new and easily get to the section of interest whether that be my portfolios, location reports or news.
I have been reviewing and updating some old photography technique posts that were posted several years ago on an old blog of mine. The updated articles will be posted here in due course following a general tidy up of the content and updating any technical or product information to reflect newly released equipment.
The first series focuses on aircraft photography – here is the link to part 1 of the series which looks at cameras and lenses. The original series of posts featured 4 parts and discusses cameras, lenses, camera modes and various useful aircraft photography techniques.
I am quite intrigued by the release of the Nikon D7200 and have been mulling over the likelihood of ever seeing a Nikon D400 to replace the classic Nikon D300 camera.
Both the stock photo and wall art photo portfolios are expanding with new and varied content. The new additions feature many different subjects as shown below.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mpc_vc_grid id=”819″ columns=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
A selection of the latest stock photos
A random selection of latest new photos added to my stock photography portfolio. Use the categories above to see all the latest additions in each category.[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid element_width=”3″ gap=”1″ filter_size=”md” include=”843,842,841,840,839,829,830,828″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1551114352315-19777b50-27eb-3″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][mpc_vc_grid id=”902″ columns=”5″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
A random selection of the latest wall art pictures.
A random selection of latest new photos added to my portfolio can be seen below..[/vc_column_text][vc_media_grid element_width=”3″ gap=”1″ filter_size=”md” include=”888,1730,1733,1734,1719,1732,1793″ grid_id=”vc_gid:1551114352325-a42776b2-df60-7″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Thanks for taking the time to read this update and look at my portfolio updates. Please feel free to leave any comments about the site layout and fuctionality, portfolios or anything else that comes to mind.
Cheers
Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”70″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column font_color=”#00478c”][vc_cta h2=”Subscribe to GDMK Images” h2_font_container=”color:%2300478c” h2_google_fonts=”font_family:Arimo%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:400%20regular%3A400%3Anormal” h4_google_fonts=”font_family:Arimo%3Aregular%2Citalic%2C700%2C700italic|font_style:700%20bold%20regular%3A700%3Anormal” txt_align=”center” color=”sky” add_button=”bottom” btn_title=”Sign me up I want to know about new GDMK Images articles” btn_align=”center” style=”outline” btn_style=”outline” use_custom_fonts_h2=”true” use_custom_fonts_h4=”true” btn_button_block=”true” btn_color=”sky” shape=”round” btn_shape=”round” btn_size=”md” btn_link=”url:http%3A%2F%2Fstaging.gdmkimages.co.uk%2Fsubscribe-gdmk-images-newsletters%2F||”]
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The Monsal Trail is a walk through the Peak District and offers some spectacular scenery and interesting opportunities for photographers. The Monsal Trail follows the route of the disused Midland Railway from Bakewell through to Topley Pike. The history of this railway line is discussed in my post about the Peak Rail steam railway which tells how part of the disused line was reopened and is now operated as a steam railway. The railway closed in 1968 as part of the cuts following the ‘Beeching Report’ and the trackbed lay unused until being converted into a designated walk.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row font_color=”#00478c”][vc_column][vc_column_text]
In 1981 the disused railway line opened as the Monsal trail and allowed walkers, cyclists and horse riders access to the impressive Peak District scenery once reserved for train passengers only. Being a former railway line means the walking is not taxing in terms of steep climbs. The walkway is solid underfoot meaning those people who are ‘not so able’ can enjoy the Peak District scenery with relative ease. Even though the walking is level, you should always have good sturdy footwear. The trail is approximately 8.5 miles in length and includes 4 tunnels between 400 and 500 yards long to walk through in addition to a couple of impressive viaducts to walk over. Initially the tunnels remained closed and alternative routes around the tunnels were used. Work was undertaken to make the tunnels suitably safe and they were eventually opened to allow people a unique experience. The tunnels are lit during daylight hours and impressive to walk through, lets face it you don’t often get the chance to walk through railway tunnels! All I can say is they are impressive enough in their disused condition, let alone with a steam engine and coaches thundering through. That would have been a sight to see.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row font_color=”#00478c”][vc_column][vc_column_text]
At various points along the trail you will find public footpaths crossing the route. This gives you the opportunity to take a more adventurous walk across the peak district to some of the higher viewpoints if you so wish.
At the north end of Headstone Tunnel, you will find a trail leading up to Monsal Head. Please note, this is a steep climb. The effort is well rewarded with a view looking over the Wye valley. There is a cafe at the top which is a useful place to recharge your batteries. Just remember it doesnt open on Mondays.
It is important to remember to dress appropriately, especially in winter months as my visit did. The day started in brilliant sunshine, albeit with very cold temperatures and strong winds. Within a couple of hours the weather turned to heavy rain, and with the strong wind, made the walking bracing to say the least. Car parks and toilets can be found at Bakewell, Hassop, Monsal Head and Miller’s Dale. If cycling is your thing and you don’t bring your own bikes then you will find bike hire at Bakewell, Hassop Station and Blackwell Mill.
The Peak District is full of photographic opportunities and the fact that the railway cuts right through the countryside means the photographer can get some unique views. For a start, the tunnels provide pretty unique photographic opportunity in themselves. Although well lit for walkers and general walking, the tunnels are still pretty dark as you can imagine. A tripod will allow all sorts of creative opportunities. Something you need to bare in mind is the fact that the wind absolutely whistles through the tunnels regardless of the weather outside. A good tripod is recommended to compensate for this. Another thing to remember if you do use a tripod in the tunnels, is that the wind isnt the only thing zipping through the tunnels. Some of the cyclists absolutely fly through so make sure you dont get too distracted and become part of an accident in the dim light. Just north of the first tunnel, Headstone Tunnel, is Monsal Viaduct. If you are feeling energetic then take the steep path immediately to the right of the tunnel up to Monsal Head. At the top you get a great view down on to Monsal Viaduct and the River Wye as shown above. Another item of interest for photographers is walking through the platforms of the disued station at Great Longstone which served Thornbridge Hall. This main station is a private residence so creative opportunities are limited. Immediately next to this are the impressive facilities used by those going to and from Thornbridge Hall. A great illustration of the times and how society worked in those days. In addition to these railway specific features, the trail is littered with photographic opportunities including moss covered trees and drystone walls, stratified rock formations in the cuttings where the navvies literally blasted their way through the rock and rolling views of the Peak District. This report only covers the 2.5 mile section from Hassop Station through to Monsal Viaduct. Further north there is plenty to see and photograph. A report of these sections will follow later in the year.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Lasting Impression
The Monsal trail is a nice undemanding walk and is accessible to almost everybody. Cycle hire is readily available should you wish to bike the route. The section between Hassop and Monsal Viaduct starts off through gentle rolling hills and finishes as the countryside becomes noticeably more rugged. Several points of interest, both photographically and historically, are encountered to make the 2.5 miles enjoyable. Reports on the northernmost sections will follow in due course. Thanks for reading and I hope you find this report useful Cheers Gary[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_separator color=”sky” el_width=”70″][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
My intention is to provide information for the photographer, and casual visitor, to various places of interest.
See the main Location Reports page for more details of the series and links to the reports.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Railway Overview
The Peak Rail steam railway is part of the old Midland Railway line that originally ran from London St Pancras to Manchester Central via Derby.
The railway was identified for closure as part of the infamous ‘Beeching Report’ of the 1960s.
As a result, local passenger services ceased between Matlock and Buxton in 1967 and through express trains finally ended in 1968.
Currently local services, operated by East Midlands Trains, still run from Derby to Matlock, which is the ‘mainline’ terminus.
Directions to Peak Rail.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column font_color=”#00478c”][vc_gallery type=”image_grid” images=”1721″ img_size=”medium” title=”Matlock”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]At Matlock, you change to platform 2 and join the Peak Rail line for a run of 4 miles through to Rowsley South.
In 2011 arrangements were finalised to allow Peak Rail trains to run into the mainline station making access to the steam railway extremely easy.
In November, January and February only, Peak Rail trains run into Matlock Riverside station which is slightly north of the mainline station. It is only a short riverside walk into the main town.
The railway is open throughout the year. You will find both steam and old BR diesels running the service.[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row font_color=”#00478c”][vc_column][vc_column_text]
Darley Dale Railway Station
[/vc_column_text][ess_grid alias=”darley-dale-railway-station”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]Darley Dale is the first station north of Matlock.
There is a small museum featuring various exhibits showing the railway during its working period. The exhibits include photos, posters and items of equipment that give a good flavour of times gone past.
[/vc_column_text][ess_grid alias=”peak-rail-rowsley”][/vc_column][/vc_row][vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]The northern terminus is Rowsley South. The station is a modern build, albeit in traditional style, alongside the main engine shed and engineering facilities.
On the station is a nice buffet and a gift shop with lots of transport related wares.
During British Rail days this site was a sizeable depot and maintenance facility.
Within this engineering complex are several enthusiast groups dedicated to restoring, preserving and maintaining various historical locomotives and rolling stock.
Also to be found at Rowsley South is a picnic area which gives a good view of the railways operations. There is a short narrow gauge railway operated as the Derbyshire Dales Narrow Gauge Railway which runs alongside the picnic area.
There are many photographic opportunities to be found on and around the Peak Rail facilities.
Matlock and Matlock Riverside stations offer little other than the standard railway platform type environment.
A footpath runs a good way alongside the railway between Matlock Riverside and Darley Dale. The River Derwent also runs close at several points. The footpath provides many opportunities for lineside shots of the passing trains.
Darley Dale station has an authentic steam era feel and look. The crossing gates immediately south of the station also offer another unusual opportunity for creative photos.
The Matlock bound platform is laid out with authentic milk churns, enamel signs, period railway signage and stacks of luggage. It really looks the part. The Rowsley platform buildings are under renovation and not open to visitors yet.
Rowsley has many great opportunities. The many types of wagons, coaches and locomotives under restoration and stored is very impressive. The sheer number and differing types of railway vehicles present many photo opportunities. There is a fully working turntable which in itself is a rarity nowadays.
As is typical for Britain, the weather was changeable during my visit. The day started nice and bright with good light from the winter sun.
As the day progressed, the clouds crept in and the day became much darker with only very brief glimpses of sun. The darker skies led to flatter looking scenes with little in the way of saturated colours. At times like these it sometimes pays to look for scenes that would look good in black and white.
A steam railway is the perfect place to practice black and white photography. It not only gets around the problem of flat colours, but also leads you into creating a little bit of authenticity with your photos.
As shown below, when the sun shines keep an eye out for colourful scenes, but when the light isnt favourable look for patterns, shapes or reflections in otherwise dull scenes. The sky was heavily overcast on the carriage shot. The dull maroon colours were muted, yet the sheen provided lots of reflections from the wooden boarding on the platform. A dull image in colour is transformed when converted to black and white.
My lasting impression of the Peak Rail steam railway was positive.
Although the line is only 4 miles long, it provides ample opportunities for creative photography. The railway shouldn’t be compared to larger steam railways such as the Severn Valley Railway as that simply isnt an equitable comparison.
The Peak Rail steam railway does a great job of providing a compact snapshot of a railway from the past.
Darley Dale and Rowsley are both full of opportunities for the photographer who enjoys railways or recreations of times long gone.
The railway operates a number of special theme days which provides additional photographic opportunities.
All in all, I recommend the Peak Rail steam railway to both photographers and also to general visitors looking for an authentic steam era experience.
Share overview of the Peak Rail steam railway with your friends and colleagues …. thanks![juiz_sps buttons=”facebook, twitter, google, pinterest, digg, linkedin, stumbleupon, mail”]
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