Exeter to Basingstoke Drivers eye view

The West of England line was once a key artery of the Southern Railway, bustling with express trains to Salisbury, Exeter, and Plymouth. It also carried the legendary Atlantic Coast Express (ACE), which connected London Waterloo all the way to Padstow on the North Cornish coast. Over the decades, the line’s prominence declined, particularly after the rationalisations of the 1960s, leaving it a much quieter route than in its heyday.

This DVD places viewers in the cab of a Class 159 DMU, capturing the journey along the recently resignalled line. Modern improvements, including redoubled sections of track, have enhanced capacity and flexibility, allowing both passengers and train enthusiasts to appreciate the route in its contemporary form. The footage showcases the driver’s perspective throughout the journey, offering a detailed view of the West of England line in operation.

In addition to the cab experience, viewers are treated to behind-the-scenes access inside the line’s signal boxes, highlighting the combination of modern signalling and traditional railway practices. These glimpses reveal the meticulous planning and coordination required to keep services running smoothly along this historic route.

Filmed in the summer of 2014 in collaboration with South West Trains and Network Rail, the DVD offers a compelling mix of history and modern railway operation. It captures the transformation of the West of England line, providing both a nostalgic look back and an appreciation of its current role in connecting communities across southern England.