Trains and railways: general interest Books
Amberley Publishing Rainhill Men Railway Pioneers
Book SynopsisTelling the story of the pioneering engineers behind the locomotives that took part in the iconic Rainhill trials.
£14.39
Pen & Sword Books Ltd The Clayton Type 1 Bo-Bo Diesel-Electric
Book SynopsisThe 'Claytons' were originally conceived as the British Railways "standard" Type 1 diesel-electric locomotive, superseding other Type 1 classes delivered as part of the 'Pilot Scheme' fleet. The early classes suffered from poor driver visibility, and the plan from 1962 was for subsequent trip-freight and local yard shunting locomotives to be centre-cab machines with low bonnets to dramatically improve visibility. To this extent the Claytons were highly successful and popular with operating crews. However, the largely untested high-speed, flat Paxman engines proved to be highly problematical, resulting in deliveries being curtailed after 117 locomotives. Further requirements for Type 1 locomotives after 1965 were met by reverting to one of the original 'Pilot' designs! Deteriorating traffic levels ultimately led to the Claytons being withdrawn from BR service by December 1971. Considerable amounts of archive material have been unearthed to enable the issues surrounding the rise and fall of the 'Standard Type 1' locomotives to be fully explored. Further sources provide insights into the effort and money expended on the Claytons in a desperate attempt to improve their reliability. Individual locomotive record cards, together with personal sighting information, allow histories of each class member to be developed including allocations, works visits, liveries and disposal details. Supported by over 280 photographs and diagrams, dramatic new insights into this troubled class have been assembled for both historians and modellers alike.
£32.00
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Mail by Rail - The Story of the Post Office and
Book SynopsisRailways have been used for the carriage of mail since soon after the Liverpool & Manchester Railway opened in 1830, the development of the first travelling post offices following, enabling the Post Office to achieve maximum efficiencies in mail transportation. As the rail network grew the mail network grew with it, reaching a peak with the dedicated mail trains that ran between London and Aberdeen. The Post Office also turned to railways when it sought a solution to the London traffic that hindered its operations in the Capital, obtaining powers to build its own narrow gauge, automatic underground railway under the streets to connect railway stations and sorting offices. Although construction and completion were delayed by the First World War, the Post Office (London) Railway was eventually brought into use and was an essential part of Post Office operations for many years. Changing circumstances brought an end to both the travelling post offices and the underground railway but mail is still carried, in bulk, by train and a part of the railway has found a new life as the Mail Rail tourist attraction. Author Peter Johnson has delved into the archives and old newspapers to uncover the inside story of the Post Office and its use of railways to carry the mail for nearly 200 years.
£28.00
Crecy Publishing British Railways Steam Locomotives 194868
Book SynopsisWhen it was originally published, Hugh Longworth''s definitive record of every steam locomotive operated by British Railways from nationalisation until the end of steam traction on the network in 1968 was very much welcomed as it provided for the first time in one place a detailed and accurate source of reference on this important subject. With the book having been out of print for some time, a new and revised edition was overdue. However, the extent of the revisions, which included the books'' many photographs being given more space on the page and the use of enlarged and enhanced locomotive drawings, greatly increased the size of the work. Rather than attempt to cut or dilute the content, it was decided that instead of publishing one unwieldy and expensive book, a more realistic approach was to present the work in two volumes of roughly similar size. This is the first of these and focuses on the Great Western and LNER locomotives which became part of BR stock in 1948. The second book, due in 2025, will cover Southern and LMS locos and the Standard classes introduced by BR. The entry for each class provides essential information including the size of cylinders and driving wheels, boiler pressure, weight, the type of valve gear used, the year the type was introduced and its tractive effort. For each locomotive in a class, its place of construction and the date, withdrawal and scrapping dates are given as are details of any renumberings that may have occurred during the BR era. Heavily illustrated throughout, this book and its companion volume will be of great value to all interested in the steam era on British Railways. All classes that were on BR''s books in the years post 1948 are covered, and whilst the overwhelming majority of the locos featured are standard gauge, the few narrow gauge locomotives operated by BR are also included.
£27.96
Transworld Publishers Ltd The Trainspotter's Notebook: The unmissable book
Book SynopsisThe adventure filled memoir from the world's most beloved trainspotter, TikTok sensation Francis Bourgeois.'Francis is one of the kindest, most genuine people I've met in a long time. His passion and unadulterated happiness is inspiring. I can't wait for more magical adventures with him.' - Joe Jonas'A National Treasure Of The TikTok Age.' - Grazia'Thrashing builds and builds. I look down and pull up my sleeve: I've got goosebumps, making all the hairs on my arm stand on end. I'm absolutely buzzing.' From sleeping in a car to get a good shot of 73962 Dick Mabbutt to trainspotting with Niall Horan, Francis Bourgeois has been on one hell of a ride over the past year. Bringing joy to millions, his epic journeys have highlighted the importance of connecting with your passions.In The Trainspotter's Notebook, Francis shares his greatest trainspotting adventures and takes you with him across the fields and footbridges of Britain, passing through historic terminals and backwater stations in pursuit of tones, thrash and locomotive perfection. Told in his inimitable style, these hilarious and heart-warming tales take you behind the scenes of his most popular videos, and celebrate the places and people of the railway.Are you ready to depart?'Oh for goodness sake, I'm on the wrong platform!'Trade ReviewA National Treasure Of The TikTok Age. * Grazia *Our favourite TikTok trainspotter. * The Face *Francis Bourgeois' unique style and infectious enthusiasm is proving to be a 'hellfire' hit. His delight is infectious. * The Observer *The world's most famous trainspotter. * The Times *'Francis is one of the kindest, most genuine people I've met in a long time. His passion and unadulterated happiness is inspiring. I can't wait for more magical adventures with him.' * Joe Jonas *
£10.44
John Murray Press Slow Train to Switzerland: One Tour, Two Trips,
Book SynopsisIn June 1863 an English lady set off by train on the trip of a lifetime: Thomas Cook's first Conducted Tour of Switzerland. A century and a half later, travel writer Diccon Bewes, author of the bestselling Swiss Watching, decided to go where she went and see what she saw. Guided by her diary, he followed the same route to discover how much had changed and how much hadn't. She went in search of adventure, he went in search of her, and found far more than he expected. Slow Train to Switzerland is the captivating account of two trips through the Alps: hers glimpsing the future of travel, his revisiting its past. Together they make a journey to remember.This is a tale of trains and tourists, of the British and the Swiss, of a Victorian traveller and a modern-day Englishman abroad. It is the story of a tour that changed both Switzerland and the world of travel forever.Trade ReviewLoquacious and genial. * The Independent *Bewes has become something of an expert on the Swiss. His first book, Swiss Watching lifted the lid on a country everybody knows of but knows little about. In his latest book, Slow Train to Switzerland he follows in the footsteps of Miss Jemima Morrell, a customer on Thomas Cook's first guided tour in 1863, and discovers how this plucky Victorian woman helped shape the face of modern tourism and Switzerland itself. * Wanderlust *Fascinating. Charming. Bewes' breezy prose makes him a pleasant travelling companion. * Spectator *Very enjoyable. Bewes is a charming guide. * Geographical *A brilliant book. There is a strong story to tell of the burgeoning country that Switzerland was in the 1860s, and the utmost change the travel industry effected on the land. The differences and similarities between the two excursions make this time capsule was well worth opening, the contrast well worth making, and this author probably the best to do so. * Bookbag *This book gives an excellent history of our favourite country, not the usual battle of this or war of that, but at the much more personal level of the common people's everyday lives. Even those of us who think we know a lot about Switzerland will learn something new, and gain that knowledge in a very readable and entertaining way. If you enjoyed 'Swiss Watching' then you'll need to get a copy of this book by the same author. Highly recommended. * Swiss Express *A delightful accessible throw-away style which is both amusing and endearing. * The Cultural Traveller *
£10.44
Key Publishing Ltd Highland Railways: Four Decades of Diesel
Book SynopsisSet against a backdrop of the wonderful scenic beauty of Scotland's Highlands, this book illustrates the area's fascinating passenger and freight trains, railway infrastructure, stations and signalling over a 40-year period. Using photographs taken mainly by two railway enthusiasts who have made regular and frequent visits to the area, the reader is taken on a captivating photographic journey north from Perth to Inverness, Kyle of Lochalsh, Wick and Thurso. En route, many of the locations on the railway and the variety of locomotives and multiple units that have appeared in the area from 1979 to 2019 are shown. This volume includes over 180 historic photographs, most of which have never been published before, each accompanied by an extensive caption. Together they form a comprehensive historic record of the trains in Highland Scotland north of Perth, including some of the changes that have taken place in the railways of the area. They illustrate the growth and decline of passenger and freight services and how the infrastructure of the railways has evolved through a period of four decades to meet the needs of the modern railway era.
£14.39
Great Northern Books Ltd The Glorious Years of the LNER: London North
Book SynopsisThe London & North Eastern Railway existed from 1923-1947 and presided over one of the most exiting periods in British railway history. From the non-stop ‘Flying Scotsman’ to ‘Silver Jubilee’, ‘Coronation’ and ‘West Riding Limited’ streamlined trains, the company was continually innovating and received accolades as a result. Particularly noteworthy were the LNER’s locomotives, designed by H.N. Gresley (later Sir), with world-renowned designs, such as the A1/A3 Class Pacific – no. 4472 Flying Scotsman – A4 Class – no. 4468 Mallard – and P2 Class 2-8-2 – no. 2001 Cock o’ the North. The Glorious Years of the LNER explores the period through over 400 superb colour and black-and-white images and informative captions. Divided into several sections, the book looks at locomotives, carriages, wagons and road vehicles. The LNER was organised into three areas: Southern (GC, GN and GE), North Eastern (NER) and Scottish (NBR, GNSR). Pictures included are taken at several locations within these, and are on main lines from London to Scotland (Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Glasgow), London to Sheffield and Manchester, and London to Ipswich and Norwich, with cross-country routes from Grimsby to Manchester, Cheshire Lines Committee undertakings between Manchester, Liverpool and Chester, as well as the Waverley route from Carlisle to Edinburgh, not forgetting the ‘West Highland’ line from Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig. Many of Gresley’s locomotives are included – A1/A3, A4, B17, D49, P2, V1, V2, W1 – in addition to his carriages and wagons, whilst many of the constituent companies’ engines also feature, such as those of H.A. Ivatt, Sir Vincent Raven, J.G. Robinson and S.D. Holden. The images are taken from the lineside, at sheds, stations and workshops. The Glorious Years of the LNER celebrates the company as one of the most prestigious and innovative of the ‘Big Four’ railway companies.
£999.99
Crecy Publishing Southern Way 67
Book SynopsisSince its first issue was published in 2007, The Southern Way has become the definitive journal on the history and heritage of the Southern Railway and the Southern Region of British Railways. Two more issues are scheduled for 2024, numbers 66 and 67. Each contains a mixture of articles and photo features on various aspects of the SR including rolling stock, infrastructure, operations and personalities. The Southern Way remains essential reading for all who interested in the SR and those modelling it.Among articles confirmed at the time of this catalogue going to press is a review of events on the SR in 1964 and a feature on the demise of the Longparish line in Hampshire.
£15.14
Crecy Publishing Rail Guide 2025
Book Synopsisabc Rail Guide has established itself as the single most comprehensive, detailed, accurate and reliable guide to the railway networks of the British Isles. The new 2025 edition of this bestselling annual publication has, as always, been thoroughly revised for its regular March publication date.The book provides the full fleet lists of the Train Operating Companies, open access and freight operators as well as a round-up of new trains, charter operators, rolling stock providers, spot hire and maintenance providers. Stock used by Network Rail and the channel tunnel operators is also listed. In addition to the national networks, abc Rail Guide 2025 also provides full coverage of London Underground, the DLR and all tram, metro and light rail systems. Main line preservation groups, depots and maintenance works, heritage lines, preserved locos, main line steam, charter promoters and scrapyards are also all included.abc Rail Guide 2025 is simply the most comprehensive and accurate single volume reference source on the contemporary railway scene. Portable, up to date, concise, easy to use, with Train Operating Company route maps and a new selection of quality colour photographs throughout, this is the essential guide for all railway enthusiasts seeking to keep up to speed with the dynamic and rapidly changing railway landscape throughout Britain and Ireland.
£21.25
Bradt Travel Guides USA by Rail
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£16.99
Key Publishing Hornby Tt 120
Book Synopsis
£23.99
Crecy Publishing Railways Remembered Southern England 19621972
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£19.12
Fox Chapel Publishing The Worlds Great Railway Journeys
Book SynopsisThe World's Great Railway Journeys takes readers on anunforgettable ride through 26 of the most iconic, scenic, and thrilling railroutes across the globe. From legendary transcontinental adventures like the Trans-SiberianRailway, Australia's Indian Pacific, and The Canadian, to breathtaking mountainclimbs and coastal views aboard the Glacier Express in Switzerland or the Settle& Carlisle in the UK, this beautifully illustrated guide celebrates theromance, grandeur, and variety of world-class train travel. The book features adiverse mix of steam-powered heritage lines, including France's Vivarais Lineand the Cumbres & Toltec Scenic Railroad in the U.S., as well as luxurycruise trains such as India's Royal Orient Express, Africa's Blue Train, and Spain'sAl-Andalus. It also explores more daring routes through remote or dramaticterrain, from Puno to Cuzco in Peru, across the Khyber Pass, or from Beijing toHanoi. Of course, no collection would be complete without the most iconic ofall: the Venice Simplon-Orient-Express. Whether you're a train enthusiast, aglobe-trotting adventurer, or a dreamer drawn to the golden age of travel, TheWorld's Great Railway Journeys is a compelling celebration of trains,landscapes, and the joy of the journey itself.
£19.99
Duckworth Books The London Underground
a huge range and FREE tracked UK delivery on ALL orders.
£10.44
AKEMAN PRESS Walks from Bristols Severn Beach Line
Book SynopsisBristol is a perfect city to explore on foot and the Severn Beach Line is the gateway to some of its finest sights. This guide has short strolls exploring Georgian crescents and city parks and all-day excursions through ancient woodlands, eighteenth-century estates and river gorges. It also includes a brief history of the Severn Beach Line.Trade ReviewThis book is more than just a walks book with maps and pubs, it is a veritable mine of information. It is profusely illustrated with colour plates and historic photos, a huge amount of historical detail on points passed, including quotes from the Bristol Mercury, a good bibliography and a history of the Severn Beach Line ... The diversity of Bristol is amazing. A wonderful book which puts each route into context with its industrial past. (From the BIAS Newsletter)Table of ContentsForeword by George Ferguson Introduction 1 Barton Hill, St Anne's Valley, Arno's Vale & Windmill Hill Lawrence Hill - Bedminster (7 miles) or Temple Meads (81/2 miles) 2 Bristol's Lost Railways Lawrence Hill - Temple Meads (71/2 miles) 3 Trooper's Hill, Royate Hill & St George Circular walk from Lawrence Hill (6 miles) 4 The Frome Valley Stapleton Road - Parkway (11 miles) 5 Montpelier, Stoke's Croft, St Paul's & Kingsdown Circular walk from Montpelier (4 miles) 6 St Andrew's, St Werburgh's & Montpelier Circular walk from Montpelier (41/2 miles) 7 Purdown, Stoke Park, Frenchay, Oldbury Court & Stapleton Circular walk from Montpelier (10 miles) 8 Redland, Henleaze, Westbury and the Trym Valley Redland - Sea Mills (9 miles) 9 Cotham, Clifton Wood, Hotwells & Clifton Redland - Clifton Down (6 miles) 10 Clifton, Brandon Hill, Christmas Steps & the Walled City Clifton Down - Temple Meads (5 miles) 11 Leigh Woods, Abbot's Pool & Ashton Court Circular walk from Clifton Down (13 miles) 12 Coombe Dingle, Henbury, Blaise Castle & Kingsweston Circular walk from Sea Mills (9 miles) 13 Lost Gardens, Spas & Railways of the Avon Gorge Sea Mills - Temple Meads (7 miles) 14 Pill, Paradise Bottom & the Avon Walkway Shirehampton - Temple Meads (11 miles) 15 Pilning, Patchway & Bradley Stoke Severn Beach - Parkway (11 miles) 16 Severn Shore & Severn Bridge Severn Beach - Chepstow (9 miles) or Severn Tunnel Jn (13 miles) The Severn Beach Line: A Brief History A Trip along the Line References Bibliography & Online Resources Acknowledgements & Picture Credits General Index Pub Index
£15.00
Plexi Productions The New York Subway Map Debate
Book SynopsisGary Hustwit is an independent filmmaker and visual artist based in New York. He has produced 14 feature-length documentaries focusing on the worlds of design, architecture, and music, including Helvetica, Objectified, Urbanized, Workplace, and Rams. The films have been broadcast on outlets in 20 countries, and have been screened in over 300 cities worldwide. His film and photographic work has been shown at the Museum of Modern Art New York, Smithsonian Cooper Hewitt National Design Museum, and the Venice Biennale.Table of ContentsIntroduction: Gary Hustwit; Foreword: Paula Scher; The Debate; John Barnett; Peter Blake; Arthur Drexler; Hugh Dunne; Aviva Goldstein; Richard Harris; Peter LaundyJohn Tauranac; Massimo Vignelli; Interview: John Tauranac; Interview: Arline Bronzaft; Interview: Peter Laundy
£28.00
Pen & Sword Books Ltd The Stroudley Brighton Terriers
£28.00
Pen & Sword Books Ltd North West Railways Gallery
£22.49
Amberley Publishing British Rail Through the 1980s
Book SynopsisExplore a fascinating journey in superb photographs through the railway scene in Britain in the 1980s.Trade Review'Captions are detailed, and the reproduction is superb, one of the best I have seen from Amberley. Various classic workings and locations are included in the book, which is split into 13 chapters. Recommended.' -- Rail Express Magazine, November 2023'An insightful and fascinating look at a railway that has changed much in 40 years and a super reference for modellers of this dramatic period in British Rail's history.' -- Hornby Magazine, February 2024
£14.39
Amberley Publishing Steam Around the East Midlands in the 1960s
Book SynopsisA terrific selection of photographs in celebration of 1960s steam railways around the East Midlands.
£14.39
Amberley Publishing The Worlds Last Steam Locomotives in Industry The
Book SynopsisA stunning collection of rare photographs documenting the last years of industrial steam around the world. This first volume focuses on scenes captured in the twenty-first century.Trade Review'As with any of Gordon’s works, the captions are highly detailed and very informative, and there’s a huge amount of variety of motive power on display. If real working steam is your thing, then this is a must-buy.' -- Steam Railway Magazine, August 2023
£16.99
Amberley Publishing Great Railway Journeys London Victoria to Brighton and the South Coast
Book SynopsisThe latest volume in the popular series exploring some of Britain's greatest journeys by rail. This time from London Victoria to Brighton and the South Coast.
£14.39
Amberley Publishing Yorkshire Railway Disasters
Book SynopsisDiscover the fascinating stories of Yorkshireâs railway disasters from the birth of the railways in the 19th century to the 21st century.
£14.39
Amberley Publishing The Birmingham to Derby Line
Book SynopsisJohn Jackson traces the 40-mile section of line connecting Englandâs second city of Birmingham with the strategically important railway centre of Derby.
£14.39
Amberley Publishing Rediscovering British Traction
Book SynopsisNick Sanderson offers a vivid pictorial celebration of British traction across the network in England and Wales.
£14.39
Amberley Publishing The Mountfield Line Since 2000
Book SynopsisHighly illustrated throughout, explore a vibrant insight into a hidden railway gem in the Sussex countryside.
£14.39
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Spirit of Northern Rails
Book SynopsisThis book endeavours to capture the very essence of the railways in the northern UK, exploring in photographs their imprint upon the landscape. Railways are illustrated as they traverse the bleak fells, pass by traditional cotton mills and industrial heritage, stride over iconic viaducts crossing vast windswept valleys and coastal estuaries, and as they share the grandeur of iconic cathedrals of both religious and railway station designs, whilst not forgetting the intricate network of canals intertwining with the rails that eventually carried the very traffic that kept these waterways in use. Here is a personal selection which I trust helps explore all that characterises and reveals the moods and atmosphere which conjure the heart and Spirit of railways traversing our northern climes. Locomotives, train designs and liveries past and present will help recall the rails of the 1980's and 90's and offer an interesting contrast to the more modern images of the present millennium. With a m
£21.25
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Rails South West From Birmingham in the Late 20th
Book SynopsisTowards the end of the twentieth century, take a photographic journey along the railway lines to the southwest and south of Birmingham. Starting at Birmingham''s main stations, New Street and Snow Hill in the centre of the city, you can travel from the West Midlands through the urban, industrial, and rural landscapes of the counties of Gloucestershire, Herefordshire, Warwickshire and Worcestershire, visiting the branch lines and the various heritage railways and railway centres along the way. As well as the diesel locomotives and railcars that are illustrated in most of the photographs, various steam-hauled special trains are also included. While the railway has gradually improved as a means of transport, for the author it has become increasingly less interesting as it has been modernised. Fortunately, the spectacle of ''Peaks'', Class 50s and many other locomotives going about their daily business has been well recorded, and many scenes are captured in these pages. Much railway infras
£22.50
Pen & Sword Books Ltd The A4 Pacifics After Gresley
Book SynopsisIn their book Gresley's Silver Link' the authors analysed the evolution of the A4s Gresley's and their service up to Gresley's death in 1941. This book takes this compelling story from the early years of the war up to their demise in the 1960s.
£28.00
Pen & Sword Books Ltd The North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Book SynopsisHigh quality picturesInformative textDetailed informationHistoric notesGood map
£13.49
Pen & Sword Books Ltd The Railway Grouping 1923 to the Beeching Era
Book SynopsisWhen King George V ascended to the throne in 1910, world trade was increasing and at home the country's private enterprise railways were booming with larger trains and more freight being carried than ever before. Over the next fifty years the country had experienced not one, but two world wars. Railways had been forcefully reorganised, not once but twice, eventually becoming state owned. With the Government now in control of the railway's finances, reformation was on the horizon in the medicine of Dr. Beeching. This volume sets out to chart the passage of the railways during these turbulent times. Contrary to popular belief, life on the railways during these times was not all doom and gloom but times of innovation, competition, new buildings, new lines and the spread of electrification. This was the era of faster, larger, non-stop expresses, streamlined trains: we even showcased our best trains abroad, not once but twice!More and more people were taking holidays by trains and holid
£24.00
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Great Western Castle Class 460 Locomotives The
Book SynopsisRecounts, from 1960, the refreshing of the trains' performance as they were modified with high superheat and double chimneys.
£24.00
Penguin Books Ltd Full Steam Ahead Felix
Book SynopsisCurl up with the wonderfully cosy SUNDAY TIMES bestselling tale of the exciting adventures of Felix and Bolt!''FULL OF FUNNY AND HEART-WARMING STORIES'' Sunday Express _________ Felix, Senior Pest Controller at Huddersfield station, has been at the heart of a close-knit community since the day she arrived as a kitten. But now, having risen to fame, everyday life at the station has become rather hectic; while reporters and fans clamour for a glimpse of her, Felix and her human co-workers find themselves, and the station, in quite a whirlwind. With the job seemingly too big for one fluffy feline to handle, it seems only sensible to recruit a young apprentice to the team: enter, Bolt. Full of funny and heart-warming stories, with personal tales from Felix''s biggest fans, this is the remarkable tale of Felix and Bolt, the ultimate pest-controlling duo.AS SEEN ON THE ONE SHOW & GOOD MORNING BRITAINTrade ReviewShe's come a long way from her humble start as Huddersfield train station's mouser * Sun *Full of funny and heart-warming stories * Sunday Express *Since she arrived at Huddersfield train station as an eight-week-old kitten, Felix has become famous, attracting visitors from all over the world who come to the West Yorkshire town in the hope of catching a glimpse of her * Big Issue North *Felix the cat, is back with another book of her escapades as a station cat - and she's gained a new apprentice, Bolt * Living North *He's a feline Facebook phenomenon . . . A beautiful book which encapsulates a whole range of emotions. It is humorous and heartbreaking but, above all, it's about real life and the joy pets bring to lives * Telegraph & Argus, Book of the Week *Within these pages you'll find heartwarming stories from the ultimate pest control duo, Felix and Bolt * Living North *
£7.59
Amberley Publishing BNSF Railway
Book SynopsisSeen through the lens of a UK-based photographer, this book shows wonderful photos of one of the world's largest and most iconic railways.
£14.39
Pen & Sword Books Ltd The Liverpool and Manchester Railway
Book SynopsisDrawing on years of research, and practical experience of working with the replica of Stephenson's Planet, this book shows how the Liverpool & Manchester Railway worked in its day-to-day operations
£21.25
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Oliver Bulleid's Locomotives: Their Design and
Book SynopsisOliver Bulleid's locomotives guides the reader in the quest to understand what motivated Mr Bulleid in his work as a senior engineer and manager, and tries, with as little bias as is reasonable, to make sense of some of the more controversial aspects of his activities. For example, why did OVB not pursue the ideal of a 2-8-2 for the Southern Railway? How did the 'Leader' project go so much out of control? What role did Bulleid play in the massive dieselisation programme in Ireland when he was CME there? How did the 0-6-6-0T turf-burning steam locomotive fit in with Ireland's traction policy, or did it? And why did ninety of his steam locomotives and ninety-four of 'his' diesels have to be rebuilt to make them either more economical or more reliable? These are fundamental questions to which the book provides the reader with answers based on the author's experiences or on those of people who knew Bulleid. OVB's undoubted successes are illustrated in words and photographs, too, to provide a hopefully balanced picture of one of Britain's more exciting railway engineers.
£24.00
Pen & Sword Books Ltd Steam Heritage 19862000
Book SynopsisWe can now celebrate the 200 years anniversary of railways, which have served to connect communities across this country and across world countries. Our railways started with steam power in 1825, until steam was phased out by British Railways in 1968. Nowadays the preservation movement continues to provide the glorious spectacle of steam trains at work in many parts of the U.K. The preserved railways and the preserved locomotives running on the main line are making their own history, and it is part of this history that is covered by this book, which records many of the steam activities from 1986 to 2000. There are numerous locomotives pictured here which may never steam again as the costs of refurbishment, coupled with very much stricter safety requirements, preclude the reappearance of some old favourites. This book contains colour pictures from the author's collection of large format slides and latterly some 35mm slides. The style is similar to the author's previous books, using approximately of 200 pictures with informative captions to describe the scenes depicted, presented in chronological order. The enormous work of volunteers in continuing the development of the preservation movement cannot be underestimated, because without those efforts, there would be no history to record. This book is a further salute to the volunteer movement, in recognition of their outstanding achievements.
£23.99
FUEL Publishing London Tube Stations 1924-1961
Book SynopsisCharles Holden's designs for the London Underground from the mid-1920s to the outbreak of World War II represent a high point of transport architecture and Modernist design in Britain. His collaboration with Frank Pick, the Chief Executive of London Transport, brought about a marriage of form and function still celebrated today. Pick used the term ‘Medieval Modernism’ to describe their work on the underground system, comparing the task to the construction of a great cathedral. London Tube Stations 1924 – 1961 catalogues and showcases every surviving station from this innovative period. These beautiful buildings, simultaneously historic and futuristic, have been meticulously documented by architectural photographer Philip Butler.Annotated with station-by-station overviews by writer and historian Joshua Abbott, the book provides an indispensable guide to the network's Modernist gems. All the key stations have a double page spread, with a primary exterior photograph alongside supporting images. A broader historical introduction, illustrated with archival images from the London Transport Museum, gives historical context, while a closing chapter lists the demolished examples alongside further period images.These stations, as famed architectural historian Nicholas Pevsner later noted, would "pave the way for the twentieth-century style in England".Table of ContentsForeword : The Allure of the SubterraneanIntroduction : Medieval ModernismA New Beginning : The Northern Line Extension to Morden 1924-1926 Re-make, Re-model : The Central London Stations 1927-1935Little Boxes : The Piccadilly Line West 1931-1934Into New Country : The Piccadilly Line East 1932-1933Repeat Performance : The District Line East 1932-1935Five Year Plan : The New Works Programme 1935-1939Before The Jubilee : The Bakerloo Line North 1936-1939Branching Out : The Central Line East 1940-1948The Long Goodbye : The Central Line West 1940-1961Victims of Progress : Demolished Stations
£21.21
The Crowood Press Ltd The Severn Tunnel Junction
Book SynopsisThe Severn Tunnel Junction was the largest freight marshalling yard on the Western Region of British Railways, once stretching for over two miles along the Welsh bank of the River Severn. At its height it was a goods yard, junction, station and loco depot, but it was an important railway community and small town as well. With over 150 photographs this book describes the beginnings of the yard within the wider historical context and discusses the expansion of the site and the impact of the two World Wars. It documents the methods of working at the junction and recalls the locos, freight and passenger trains that travelled the lines. Finally, it remembers the people who worked and lived here.
£18.00
Profile Books Ltd Steam Trains Today: Journeys Along Britain’s
Book Synopsis'A delightful book ... the perfect companion as you wait for the 8.10 from Hove' Observer After the Beeching cuts of the 1960s, many railways were gradually shut down. Rural communities were isolated and steam trains slowly gave way to diesel and electric traction. But some people were not prepared to let the romance of train travel die. Thanks to their efforts, many lines passed into community ownership and are now booming with new armies of dedicated volunteers. Andrew Martin meets these volunteer enthusiasts, finding out just what it is about preserved railways that makes people so devoted. From the inspiration for Thomas the Tank Engine to John Betjeman's battle against encroaching modernity, Steam Trains Today will take you on a heart-warming journey across Britain from Aviemore to Epping.Trade ReviewPraise for Andrew Martin: 'Compelling ... full of history and railway nuggets -- Michael Binyon * Sunday Times *Informative and witty * Cumbria Life *You do not have to be a trainspotter to enjoy this book. It is social history, a kind of epitaph to a way of travel that seems to be lost, at least in Europe -- Christian Wolmar * Spectator *A delightful book ... This book is the perfect companion as you wait for the 8.10 from Hove -- Nigel Jones * Observer *Martin is entertaining company, alive to the history of his route ... leaves you with renewed confidence that trains can still be the most civilised way to travel * Financial Times *
£9.99
Profile Books Ltd Train Teasers: A Quiz Book for the Cultured
Book SynopsisWhen was smoking banned on trains? Which actor restored kippers to the menu of the Brighton Belle? What regular lineside event did Dickens describe as 'a shave in the air'? Perfect for a trivia night or a long trip, Train Teasers will both test your knowledge of this country's rail system and enlighten you on the most colourful aspects of its long history. Meet trunk murderers, trainspotters, haters of railways, railway writers, Ministers for Transport good and bad, railway cats, dogs and a railway penguin. This is NOT a book for number-crunching nerds. Many of the answers are guessable by the intelligent reader. It is a quiz, yes, but also a cavalcade of historical incident and colour relating to a system that was the making of modern Britain.Trade ReviewWonderful ... a treasure and a gem -- Jeremy CorbynAndrew Martin has cornered the train market. He is the Bard of the Buffer, the Balladeer of the Blue Train, the Laureate of Lost Property ... the best sort of travel-writer: inquisitive, knowledgeable, lively, congenial * Mail on Sunday *Martin is entertaining company, alive to the history of his route ... leaves you with renewed confidence that trains can still be the most civilised way to travel * FT *A fascinating look back at the lesser-known, the long-forgotten and the downright bizarre features of [Britain's] railways * Railways Illustrated *Perfect for any self-respecting railway enthusiast with a penchant for quizzes ... Hours of fun * Steam Railway *
£9.49
Crecy Publishing Birmingham and West Midlands Railway Atlas: 2nd
Book SynopsisMuch has changed in this region since the first edition of this Atlas was published in 2016, notably the confirmation of the route of HS2 and extensions to the West Midlands Metro. As a consequence, a completely revised edition of this masterly cartographic portrayal of the railways and tramways of the West Midlands by leading railway cartographer, Joe Brown, is particularly timely.The Atlas covers the entire West Midlands continuous urban area of Birmingham, Walsall, Wolverhampton, West Bromwich, Stourbridge and Dudley. It also features the towns and cities surrounding this core area. This includes Stafford, Lichfield, Tamworth, Nuneaton, Coventry, Rugby, Leamington Spa, Stratford-upon-Avon, Bromsgrove and Kidderminster. As well as dealing with the complex railway system that served the area, the entire historic passenger tramway network of the region is mapped with opening and closing details provided in an Appendix. This is brought up to date with the current West Midlands Metro system and future extensions to it which have been announced as well as the planned Coventry ''Very Light Rail'' system.Intricate and finely drawn mapping shows individual track and platforms for all lines whether open and closed, as well as stations, changes of station name and opening and closing dates, and much, much more. Many of those both interested in both transport and local history will already be aware of the superb quality of Joe Brown''s cartography and will wish to add this new and much enhanced edition of the Birmingham and West Midlands Railway Atlas to their libraries.
£21.25
Crecy Publishing British Railways First Generation DMUs: Second
Book SynopsisFirst widely introduced from the early 1950s onwards, the diesel multiple-unit represented an attempt to produce a vehicle that would replace steam traction on the country''s branch lines and secondary routes at a time when the railway industry was in desperate need of a cheaper alternative to steam in order to improve the finances of these increasingly unremunerative lines. Over 4,000 vehicles were ordered from both BR works and private manufacturers as part of the BR modernisation plan of 1955.Following refurbishment from the early 1970s onwards, many first generation DMUs were to survive in service until the late 1980s and early 1990s. Although most were scrapped after withdrawal, a significant number of these vehicles have been preserved on the nation''s heritage railways.This updated and expanded edition of Hugh Longworth''s classic book on the subject records the great variety of DMU types constructed as part of the programme. Each is covered in detail with information about construction, technical specifications, entry into service, formations, allocations, withdrawal and final fate. This new edition makes full use of colour throughout with many additional photos included. The diagrams have been redrawn and a new section showing the unit formations has been added.Comprehensive in its coverage, this book will be sought after by all those modellers, preservationists and historians seeking a detailed reference work on the history of first generation DMUs.
£28.00
Crecy Publishing Railways Remembered: North East England
Book SynopsisThe north east of England was the crucible of the railway revolution in the early nineteenth century. The Stockton & Darlington Railway, which opened in 1825, was the world''s first public railway to use steam locomotives. As the national network developed, the East Coast Main Line passed through the region on its way from London to Edinburgh and virtually every part of the area was linked to a large and complex web of lines which were built to serve coal mines and other heavy industries as well as communities across the region. As the century developed, by a process of expansion and amalgamation, the North Eastern Railway came to dominate the area. This became part of the LNER group in 1923 though with the formation of British Railways in 1948, the new North Eastern Region of BR, with its distinctive orange signage, served an area closely comparable to that of the old NER itself. This new colour album explores the railways of the north east from the 1950s through to the 1970s using largely hitherto unpublished images from the files of the Online Transport Archive. These cover steam, diesel and electric traction and whilst focusing on the main line railways, the area''s heavy concentration of industrial lines is also featured in this wonderful nostalgic reflection of the fascinating railway network of this part of the country.
£19.12
Crecy Publishing abc Famous Trains
Book SynopsisIn 1955, Ian Allan Publishing produced the first five books in a new series entitled, Famous Trains. Another three were added in 1956 to complete the set. The extent of these little booklets was around 30 pages and they were priced at 6 (old) pence each. They were similar in format and appearance to the abcs which were being produced and sold in vast numbers at the time when locospotting had become something of a national obsession for schoolboys in particular. Each of the books featured one of the well-known named express trains of that era; The Elizabethan, The Royal Scot, The Cornish Riviera Express, The Atlantic Coast Express, The South Wales Pullman, The Queen of Scots, The Royal Wessex and the Bournemouth Belle and The Irish Mail. They were all written by one of the most prolific railway authors of the 1950s and 60s, G. Freeman Allen, and followed the same format. A short introduction led to a description of the route traversed by the trains. This was illustrated with sketches of relevant portions of the route and photographs of the trains themselves. Major railway and topographical features, which could be seen by passengers along the journey, were also highlighted. All the covers carried a drawing by A.N.Wolstenholme of the train featured, similar in style to the covers of the ''abcs'' of the time. Long out of print, we are republishing facsimiles of all eight titles in one combined volume. This book will transport the reader on a wonderful nostalgic journey back to those years that, seen from the perspective of the twenty first century, represents the golden age of British Railways and the apogee of steam traction on the network.
£13.67
Key Publishing Ltd Rail Freight: London and the South East
Book SynopsisExploring the rail freight operations in London and the South East, this book details the traction, rolling stock, terminal facilities and infrastructure over the past several decades.
£15.29
Key Publishing Ltd Classes 142143144
Book Synopsis
£15.29
