DEVONS RAILWAYS

This book explores the railways of Devon, covering the two main lines from the east and branch lines to Exmouth and Barnstaple. It includes over 180 color photographs of the infrastructure and trains, depicting older locomotive classes and modern traction.

Format: Paperback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 31 July 2021
Publisher: CRECY PUBLISHING LIMITED

This, the first of two volumes covering the railways of Devon, follows the routes of the two main lines that enter the county from the east. Firstly, the former Western Region line is examined as it runs from Whiteball Tunnel in the Blackdown Hills and down along the attractive Culm and Exe Valleys to the county town of Exeter. It then takes the reader over the former Southern Region line from Axminster through rolling countryside to Exeter, where the two routes meet. In addition, the book explores the branch lines that are still open in this part of the county; firstly, the one to Exmouth, which runs beside the Exe estuary for half of its length, and then by way of a contrast, the line to Barnstaple, which penetrates the rural heart of Devon to reach the county's north coast. Finally, a look is taken at the Okehampton branch, which has just been acquired by Network Rail and is about to have its passenger service reinstated. Illustrated with over 180 color photographs, only a few of which have been published previously, this volume records many of the changes that have taken place over the last 35 years to both the infrastructure and trains. Coverage is mainly of service trains, but a number of special workings are also included. It depicts some of the older locomotive classes in their final days as well as the traction that provides today's services.

Introduction:
This, the first of two volumes covering the railways of Devon, follows the routes of the two main lines that enter the county from the east. Firstly, the former Western Region line is examined as it runs from Whiteball Tunnel in the Blackdown Hills and down along the attractive Culm and Exe Valleys to the county town of Exeter. It then takes the reader over the former Southern Region line from Axminster through rolling countryside to Exeter, where the two routes meet. In addition, the book explores the branch lines that are still open in this part of the county; firstly, the one to Exmouth, which runs beside the Exe estuary for half of its length, and then by way of a contrast, the line to Barnstaple, which penetrates the rural heart of Devon to reach the county's north coast. Finally, a look is taken at the Okehampton branch, which has just been acquired by Network Rail and is about to have its passenger service reinstated.

Former Western Region Line:
Firstly, the former Western Region line is examined as it runs from Whiteball Tunnel in the Blackdown Hills and down along the attractive Culm and Exe Valleys to the county town of Exeter. It then takes the reader over the former Southern Region line from Axminster through rolling countryside to Exeter, where the two routes meet. In addition, the book explores the branch lines that are still open in this part of the county; firstly, the one to Exmouth, which runs beside the Exe estuary for half of its length, and then by way of a contrast, the line to Barnstaple, which penetrates the rural heart of Devon to reach the county's north coast. Finally, a look is taken at the Okehampton branch, which has just been acquired by Network Rail and is about to have its passenger service reinstated.

Branch Lines:
In addition, the book explores the branch lines that are still open in this part of the county; firstly, the one to Exmouth, which runs beside the Exe estuary for half of its length, and then by way of a contrast, the line to Barnstaple, which penetrates the rural heart of Devon to reach the county's north coast. Finally, a look is taken at the Okehampton branch, which has just been acquired by Network Rail and is about to have its passenger service reinstated.

Okehampton Branch:
Finally, a look is taken at the Okehampton branch, which has just been acquired by Network Rail and is about to have its passenger service reinstated. Illustrated with over 180 color photographs, only a few of which have been published previously, this volume records many of the changes that have taken place over the last 35 years to both the infrastructure and trains. Coverage is mainly of service trains, but a number of special workings are also included. It depicts some of the older locomotive classes in their final days as well as the traction that provides today's services.

Conclusion:
In conclusion, this comprehensive and well-illustrated book provides a fascinating insight into the railways of Devon, covering both the main lines and branch lines that are still open in this part of the county. It records many of the changes that have taken place over the last 35 years to both the infrastructure and trains, and depicts some of the older locomotive classes in their final days as well as the traction that provides today's services. Whether you are a railway enthusiast or simply interested in the history and development of the region, this volume is sure to be of interest.

Weight: 288g
Dimension: 171 x 243 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781802820256