Today’s post is a catch up on another visit to the Watercress Line, this time though it was not raining, thank goodness! I visited the railway last Sunday.
Upon arrival at Alresford I managed to get a few shots of U class 31806 before it departed. This locomotive really is a credit to the railway’s loco works and a solid workhorse of the Southern and it’s great to see it in operation.
I then went for a short 5-10 minute walk, starting by going from the station towards the town centre and taking a right just past the police station. A footpath takes you through the church graveyard. By following the path as far as it goes and then taking a right-hand turn followed by another right, you find yourself on a bridge over the railway. It isn’t a bad spot in itself, but this time I wanted to go a little further.
There is a footpath that can be found across the bridge and immediately on the left. The path is a little over-grown and clearly a favourite for inconsiderate dog-owners (mind your step!) Despite these hazards it is worth braving the path as it takes you to a good viewpoint of the line.
If you get there in the afternoon, you will have the sun is behind you, and you can get a nice picture or two. If you decide to try this view-point, take into account that trains will be drifting down-hill so will not be making much, if any fuss. There is also little space if other enthusiasts are present.
From here, 850 Lord Nelson came through and I caught it on video – 850 Lord Nelson approaching Alresford.
The day was rounded off nicely by walking back to Alresford station and having a good look at ‘Nellie’ and watching it leave (video 2 – 850 Lord Nelson departing Alresford.) As ever, it was a fantastic day out at this wonderful preserved line.