Going East: The Story of East-West Rail and the Oxford-Cambridge Line

The Varsity Line, a railway route between Oxford and Cambridge, was opened in stages in the 19th century and became part of the LMS in 1923. It was strategically important during the Second World War but closed in the 1960s. Since then, demand has risen and East West Rail has been founded to reopen the line by 2030, linking Oxford, Bicester, Bletchley/Milton Keynes, Bedford, and Cambridge. This book surveys the history and operations of the route, analysing the benefits and downsides of such a large rail project today.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 November 2023
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

The railway route between Oxford and Cambridge, affectionately known as the Varsity Line, underwent a phased opening in the nineteenth century. Spanning approximately east to west, it intersected numerous significant trunk routes connecting London with the North and Midlands, ultimately becoming part of the LMS in 1923 Railway Grouping. Recognized for its strategic importance during the Second World War, the line facilitated freight traffic by bypassing London, leading to the construction of new connections. Despite post-war plans to further develop the line, certain sections were closed down by BR in the 1960s. However, the increasing demand for railways and the recognition of the value of this through route have resulted in the reopening of sections, with the establishment of East West Rail in 2015. This company aims to re-establish the entire line by 2030, connecting Oxford, Bicester, Bletchley/Milton Keynes, Bedford, and Cambridge. Additionally, it serves as a potential feeder route for HS2. This book delves into the history of the Varsity Line and its operations, examining the campaign and plans to reopen it, analyzing both the benefits and challenges of such a significant rail project in the present day.

Weight: 306g
Dimension: 165 x 232 x 14 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398112735