Brockenhurst to West Moors Trackbed Tour

Description

Opened in 1847, closed in 1964, explored by Dumpman in 2013.

A recreation of the train journey that used to be possible between Brockenhurst and West Moors, following very nearly all the remaining track bed.

Starting at Brockenhurst before taking in a view of Lymington junction and then swiftly moving on to disused track bed through the delightful New Forest. Numerous crossing keeper’s cottages are seen along the way as is the station building and platform at Holmsley. Every effort is made to access even the most awkward and overgrown areas. Travel is mostly by bike, sometimes on foot and even by car where a road has been built on the track bed east of Holmsley.

Filming in early April afforded stunning, unfettered views across the New Forest before the summer growth took hold, showing the views that railway travellers would have enjoyed.

The site of Ringwood station is seen, followed by impressive bridge crossings across the River Avon. Over the border into Dorset and the platform remains and station site are seen at Ashley Heath followed by a dead straight section heading into West Moors past a vast M.O.D. fuel dump. The site of West Moors station is pointed out, using the remaining crossing keeper’s cottage and railway hotel building as reference points. Also mentioned is the line joining this one from Fordingbridge.

Reference to a vintage map at the end of the film shows the course of the line in relation to the film.

Includes constant, well researched commentary.