BRANCH LINE to MINEHEAD

The West Somerset Railway

At 20 miles long the West Somerset Railway runs from Bishops Lydeard through the Quantock Hills and out along the coast through Blue Anchor to the popular seaside resort of Minehead.
It is the longest line in British railway preservation. During this documentary style video, the line's history from 1862 to the present day is discussed, including a detailed study of the scenic route, its beautifully restored stations, and steam in the landscape. The old Great Western Railway atmosphere is recreated with footage of the ubiquitous 'Prairie' tanks and 'Manor's' No. 7828 Odney Manor and No. 7820 Dinmore Manor. Former Somerset & Dorset Joint Railway '7F' No. 88 is also seen in action. Visiting locomotives to the line, including British Railways No. 71000 Duke of Gloucester, are also captured. Witness the locomotives working hard on the steeply graded picturesque line!