Branch Lines of Hampshire

Join Colin Maggs and the 1st Take team to see what remains of Hampshire’s once-numerous branch lines, some of which were closed even before the Second World War. Many more lines have been lifted since then, but every branch can now be re-visited in this special historical journey, which explores every corner of the county.

Some former railway stations have been painstakingly renovated or maintained, and put to alternative use, such as at Horsebridge, Droxford, Holmsley and Lee-on-Solent. Other highlights include some enlightening and amusing anecdotes from Colin, such as why the Kaiser’s train was kept waiting at Christchurch Road level crossing in 1911, how a helpful porter regularly saved embarrassment at Litchfield Station; and a grandiose plan at Brockenhurst that never materialised. There is also a fascinating interview with Dave Blay, who enjoyed working at the Esso Fawley Refinery Railway for over 30 years.

Happily a few branches remain active today: the electrified Eastleigh to Fareham line, the Alton and Lymington branches, the preserved Mid-Hants Railway from Alton to Alresford and a section of the Totton to Fawley branch. We also visit the evocative Hayling Seaside Railway, and although technically just across the Dorset border, another narrow gauge line, the Moors Valley Railway near Ringwood.

Enhanced by rare archive photographs, superb modern location film and adorned by excerpts of archive footage, this new DVD will be a treat for railway enthusiasts everywhere.