Freshwater to Newport Trackbed Tour

Description

Starting at the site of Freshwater station, the station sign supports and platform remains are sought out in the store of a garden centre, alongside the well named “End Of The Line” cafe.

The track bed is then cycled alongside the stunning River Yar estuary, past the attractive causeway crossing, before reaching the largely intact station at Yarmouth.

Shortly after Yarmouth, the journey becomes a mixture of walking and cycling all the track bed that is accessible, depending on the terrain. Some overgrown, ploughed over and private sections are not travelled, but zoom lens footage manages to include most of these and all footpaths that cross the line are taken full advantage of. Numerous sites of industrial history are spotted along the way.

Access was granted at the stations of Ningwood, Calbourne & Shalfleet and Watchingwell, including some views inside station buildings. The site of Calbourne viaduct is thoroughly explored showing the remaining concrete footings and brick abutments. Bridges either side of Watchingwell are sought out and filmed as is the site of Gunville bridge. Access to the site of Carisbrooke station was gained and also to Petticoat Lane crossing keeper’s cottage to include footage from within the garden showing where the track used to run.

The site of the brick and trestle Towngate viaduct in Newport is explored showing sculptures harking back to the days of the railway that have been left there. The film closes showing the site of the terminus in Newport.

Includes constant, well-informed commentary and reference to a vintage map.