On the rails: Contrasts…

Our wonderful country, rolling hills, soaring mountains and long horizons, green and lots of it. We don’t have to only consider visits to preserved railways to enjoy these vista from a train window…

That said we do actually need a window, and preferably a picture window! Table seats are often a good way to ensure a great view. Recent journeys in the TFW refurbished 150/2s have lovely big windows at the table seats, as do, surprisingly the 175s on Southern. So contrast here the view from a Class 108 DMU between Bodiam and Tenterden on the K&ESR with that from a Class 175 between Rye and Ashford…

Class 108 on the K&ESR

I’ve mentioned the run from Ashford to Rye before as being one stuck in a time warp, it’s lack of 3rd rail and sections of single track meaning a less frequent train journey but plenty of character. On a sunny day you can’t help but enjoy the lush Romney marshes. 

So contrasts not in view, but in journey. Preserved Class 108 at 15-25mph or Class 175 at 50-60mph? Both comfortable, if not quiet. Today’s turbo star doing very much the job the 108 were so successful at too, keeping Britains rural lines moving.

Class 175 on the Rye to Ashford.

The way a train journey splits up a day, from hustle and bustle to calm contemplation can be a wonderful way to travel, be it for business or pleasure. I’ve been lucky with my adventures in the past 12 months, let’s hope things continue to ‘generally improve’ for rail passengers in the months and years ahead. Enjoy your Aunday, until next time more soon…

Donate

I love writing and creating material for the blog. If you enjoy what you read and engage with I would be appreciative of any donation, large or small, to help me keep it advert and restriction free.