Do enjoy this film in *4K* where possible. If you have not already done so, would you be able to *like* this film, *comment* and *share* it as widely as possible? This spreads the word of both the film and my channel...I would be delighted to obtain 30,000 subscribers by the end of the year, though with my occasional output and niche subject matter, I appreciate this is rather ambitions!
Have you considered emailing Southwold Railway Trust about your video? Maybe they'll be willing to link to this excellent video, and perhaps you could link to their website in the video description in return. Just an idea. :)
@Tiger313NL a very fine idea indeed. When I was making the film, I did attempt to contact them for the purposes of research, but I never received a reply.
A fantastic video, made even better by using archive footage and photographs. You have certainly brought this railway back to life via your film. Well done all the volenteers and society members who have spent a lot of time and effort on relaying some of the track and clearing the trackbed to enable us to walk most of the line.
As someone very much involved presently in actively restoring this wonderful line, I enjoyed watching this and well done to you for providing us with such an enjoyable and informative film.
A daunting task for so few volunteers. If only the energy’s and skills of say 500 of the men hemmed up in hotels could be put to use, the line would be restored in months.
Yeah, mate, your production quality is first-rate. Uplifting music, varied shots, great find and use of archive materials, fabulous post-production. You have a real talent for this kind of documentary making. You could easily do this for a living.
As ever the research is fantastic, the archive footage and the present day footage so skillfuly edited, this is a television level documentary as good as the BBC could make. Thank you.
Wow, what a beautifully researched video, with very clear narration. I was surprised at the sheer variety of great scenery on the route. And I was further surprised to see how much of the route survives. The volunteers have made a great start with 'boots on the ground', and momentum is clearly on their side. The railway will surely be a great asset to Southwold.
Thank you very much for your kind words and comment, greatly appreciated. Do subscribe if you've not already done so and enjoy my other films in the series.
Wonderful! Terrific film. The Southwold Corporation didn't want the railway in Victorian times, and I suspect the wealthy locals and Londoners who own the town today are not supportive of the excellent preservation efforts. It's a pipe dream, but just imagine 3' gauge trains running from Southwold to Halesworth once again!
I understand the attitude in the town at the eastern end is much the same today. As much of a narrow gauge nut as I am, the entire transhipment process rendered the line uneconomic as soon as demobbed servicemen were able to buy ex-WD lorries to open their own haulage businesses. The effect on the perennially skint Southwold was such that the area didn't even need to await more the powerful diesel buses which over the next decade, did for many a branch line, long before BR, let alone Beeching. It says a lot that even the redoubtable Col.H.F Stephens, that patron saint of railway lost causes, never got involved.
Stunning film. The work you do to make these videos is really appreciated by all of us. Super footage and so interesting to watch. This line needs to be brought back to life. Thank you.
This was excellent. The mix of period footage, use of drones and current footage on the ground was perfect. Nice to see some preservation activity too!
Amazing video! for a line that closed so early I wasn't expecting to see as much video footage from operation! Some real gems still to see on this line and great to see some of the work carried out at Blythburgh such a beautiful part of England.
First rate video on this lovely line. Your narration is spot-on and the combination of archive photos and film, interspersed with present day footage and drone useage makes for a very watchable programme. I was unaware that the trust had been so productive in recreating small pockets of the line.
I hardly ever comment on videos but having stumbled across this one today I just had to say how fantastic it was! Excellent production values, obviously thoroughly researched, and the mix of drone, on the ground and archive footage/photos really brought the story of the line to life. I’ve now subscribed and can’t wait to watch all your others. Thank you!
@richardblewett6078 I'm so pleased you've found my channel and I hope you enjoy my films. May I personally recommend my film concerning the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway which I hope you enjoy 🙏
I liked Southwold, the very essence of what a market town should be. Like so many in the East Anglian coastal area, it was neglected by all but the lower classes who depended on it, then came sufficient affluence to the local landowners that they preferred to have their motor car and it lost their support. Others that went the same way can be found a little further south on the Essex peninsulas
I’ve known Southwold since I was a nipper. Great to see the history of the line. Pretty sure I remember some structure by the harbour many years ago that may have had something to do with the railway.
I hope one day that it can be restored as a heritage railway. The scenery is fantastic and tourists would just love it. I have bicycled some of the route. 30” gauge could be replaced with a cheaper 15” for tourists from Southwold to Walberswick? Like Bressingham Gardens? Just a thought, it all costs money. Great film, well done and thank you 👍🏼🇬🇧👏🏻🥳🇬🇧
The railway was 3ft gauge, not 30 inch. The trust already has several items of rolling stock in the original gauge, including two locomotives, one a new build replica so 3ft gauge it is...
@@MorrisPV If Economy is the desired effect from making Tourists smile, 24 inch or 60 Cm equipment can still be located. The Wiscasset Waterville and Quebec line have bee busy assembling some lovely rolling stock, in that once popular gauge. That group may have demonstrating as well as any historical group, how you can apply the maximum amount of Humans per mile, or smile, as any other Gauge being operating anywhere.
@@danielhutchinson6604 So, what do you suggest the Southwold Railway Trust should do with the new build working 3 foot gauge replica of Blyth that was recently completed?
@@MorrisPV Dual Gauge Tracks are found all over the Planet. The cost of an extra rail, is not a game changer. I believe we can provide real transportation preservation and historical sites that will provide actual transportation facilities as well as historical presentations that function as a normal part of life. Cars now appear to have become a Wealthy Mans Toy. The cost of a fine automobile as well as the insurance has been driven to a point that the majority of humans are incapable of providing. We can create Rail transport facilities that offer an alternative and maintain the Past for those who might desire a glimpse of what was at one time a common method of transport.
Hi, Again fantastic job, (my wife's grandad was born there ,as many of the time was a fisherman, hard job), everyone thinks it the best thing to do get the of the railways, now it's get rid of the car's, (back to the horse and cart, Thanks for the enjoyment, , All the best Brian
Such a talented, so expertly researched, filmed, edited and narrated channel doesn’t deserve 30k subscribers, you deserve 300k. Thank you so much for posting, enjoyed every second.
Knowing my interest in old railways a family member brought me a copy of the "Narrow Gauge Album" 1961 by P.B. Whitehouse that she randomly came across in a second hand store - unusual considering I'm in South Africa! And yes - there on pages 78 and 79 is the section on this railway. As per that section "It displayed an unusually stubborn reluctance to lie down and die decently".
The perfect late evening trip through lovely countryside. I do hope planning permission and funding is forthcoming, it would be a delightful heritage line judging by what you've shown. Loved the archive footage and photos, and the fast runs through trees and cow parsley. Delightful as always, and great to learn about a line I knew nothing about.
Thank you so very much for taking us on this journey on this beautiful railway through England's green and pleasant land. Had it survived it would indeed have been a very popular heritage railway usefully commencing the journey at a mainline station and travelling to the most attractive of destinations at Southwold. We are indeed most grateful for the heritage association that have preserved parts of the line. We are absolutely delighted with the work that you have done in providing us with this excellent production.
A nice video! I've met the guy who took some of the film of the Southwold Railway! The harbour line once had tracks and a buffer stop at Blackshore Quay, but that has all gone except the one bit of rail you spotted. The original railway bridge spans were still extant at the time (1971) when I took my footbridge photo - which I see you've used in your video. Had you looked through my stuff you might have spotted a sign that said 'Halesworth for Southwold' - yet another photo of mine - that sign survived on the platform at Halesworth until about 1973.
I'm very glad you got in touch because it is a really fine photo of that bridge and I greatly enjoyed reading your notes on the subject. Thank you for your kind words about my film 🙏
Well, everyone else beat me to giving you accolades about this very well presented and produced video of this obscure little branch line. I thank you because it actually added life to my Middleton Press book of the Southwold Railway! Thanks again😀👍🏻
That's an interesting video. I spent a few days in Southwold during 2023. I was not aware of the railway until the final day, hence I could not explore it. I did find an old faded photograph in a local charity shop, showing the station. It does not have a photographers name on it, only stating Train entering Southwold station, with the number S 9663.
@@RediscoveringLostRailways I grew up near the north Liverpool extension line and used to play on it (after it had been ripped up ) near Walton triangle . I now live about 8 miles from there near what was Halewood triangle . It’s a fascinating disused bit of infrastructure. Absolutely no fore sight those responsible for taking it off the network .
Brilliant film thank you! I managed to see many of the remaining traces on a visit some years ago. I have a great photo of my late wife, looking bemused, sitting on the Walberswick bench. I also found some bits of rail at the harbour branch. There have been many additions thanks to supporters of the line. Your video brings it all together forming a complete trip along the line. Excellent.
As always an amazing video incredibly well crafted, great research inserting old paintings, footage and HD drone images. Mind, soul and heart on every single one of them, you brought back railway nostalgia in flawless way.
Wonderful to see the old railway. I used to live in Southwold and often walked the old track route from the Southwold station, over the marshes and bridge to Walberswick. We once had a midnight walk with our local Red Cross youth group from Southwold to Halesworth, creepy at night but lovely views during the day. Many thanks for bringing back so many memories of the old line and keep up the good work.
This was well worth the wait and many thanks for all the time and effort this must have & it should definitely reopen as an attraction i highly doubt that this will happen though i have brought you a coffee to say thanks😀
It's an easy and enchanting ramble, Southwold to Blythburgh, on the old line, ending at a fine pub. Return to the river, turn right and, from the pub, walk back to town across the fields.
What a beautiful film of a lovely part of the world. I never knew this line had existed, and on recent holidays to Walberswick and Southwold I wondered why such an important town isn't rail connected. When my daughter has joined us for a few days I've dropped her off at Darsham to catch the London train. What a delightful trip right through to Southwold it could be.
Thank you once again for another wonderful, informative and evocative film. Personally i would like to see all the old railways still with us!. I have never really read much about this railway, compared to the L&B or the Welsh narrow gauge ones, thanks again
Excellent video, thank you. An area I visited a few times with my wife and children when we lived near the Herts/Essex border. Happy times!Fascinating to see the old footage and what remains.
As an ex-resident of Westleton, and a current resident of the USA, this was a wonderful video. Places I used to know, interlaced with fascinating shots of a largely forgotten railway. Well Done!
Another excellent documentary from your editing suite, complete with such appropriate music and - as always - top quality informative narration. It's not difficult to appreciate why, with changing economic and social cultures at the time, the railway sadly came to an end. Full marks to the dedicated volunteers who are providing a Southwold railway rennaisance!
Wonderfully produced account, fully doing justice to this unique and much-lamented little railway. The geography and relationship of the various sites along the line are wo much clearer, now, and also just how much still remains. Thank you for this.
@ 2:39 Oh I've think I've heard about this before some where about it's 'movable platforms'!!! @17:21 - isn't it always the way - spend a long time looking for something & the moment you stop looking - you suddenly find it!!! 😄🚂🚂🚂
It never ceases to amaze me just how aerial views reveal the railways that once were, even now: the other day I discovered that it's possible to trace parts of a minor line such as the Edenham and Little Bytham Railway...
Southwold is one of my favourite UK coastal towns and we've stayed there several times, the last time in a hotel that was a favourite of Joyce Grenfell, an actress, writer & singer who was most active in the 50's & 60's. Another very enjoyable & informative video - many thanks.
Another very-well presented video, thank you. I wonder how much this line may have been subject to periodic flooding, or how stable the track bed may have been during wet conditions. Still, best of luck to the heritage folks, gradually restoring the line!
Another excellent film, really brings the railway, which I was aware of but knew very little about, back to life. Your 'expanded' videos are a delight.
Visited Southwold for a long weekend quite a few years back, well worth going there as it is an all round interesting and very photogenic town. Stayed at the Blyth Hotel which was originally the Station Hotel and is still in business today, you can see it quite clearly on the right of the picture at 18:36 in the video. It is partly obscured by what I'm guessing may be an engine shed. The defunct police station which still occupies the railway station site closed in 2016 and was operational at the time of my visit. The police station was preceded by Southwold Fire Station at that same site. Liked the video very much, thanks.
We often visit this part of the coast and it’s great to know about the remains and route of this railway, which I had always assumed was a standard gauge line. Many thanks for taking the trouble to cover its history properly.
A wonderful look at this quirky line. Railways like this were so impractical yet they had fond memories for people who rode them. A well constructed tale, looking forward to more.
@@RediscoveringLostRailways looking forward to it 👍. Can I suggest the branch lines around Midhurst in West Sussex. With lines running to Chichester, Pulborough and Petersfield.
Grew up in Halesworth. When I was at Halesworth Middle there used to be a signal box in the ground with all the museum stuff in it. The restoration work on the line wasn't carried out then but I spent many hours as a teenager playing on/around bridge number 2.
Wow, I really enjoyed the video 👍 it is amazing that some sections let alone a station has been preserved and this kinda reminds of the Lynton & Barnstable where it too has many stations restored. I will be surprised if the Southwold Railway will get planning permission to restore a section to run the replica of the original steam loco in the near future.
What a beautiful part of Britain. As always a very professional video, well documented and narrated. As you said . Would have made a very interesting heritage railway line. Great video. Keep up the excellent work. 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
A well researched illustrated and commented film. Congratulations. It would be interesting to find out if the original Act was ever repealed. If not then it still exists unless there is a specific abandonment clause.!
Superb video again, an absolute masterpiece. Always a real pleasure to watch. As I have said before, the work and effort you put into these videos is appreciated. 👍🙂
Great video. Having visited Southwold (and Walberswick) many times from my home in Norfolk, I was unaware this railway had ever existed. Having an interest in 'old' railways I, like many others, found your look back at how things were very enjoyable. It would be a dream come true to see some of the line around Southwold restored and, with a live steam powered train, would give the town an extra attraction for the residents and visitors alike. Maybe one day....
Superb documentary of a long extinct line. My grandparents lived in Southwold and then Halesworth in later years ...so I knew both towns aswell as a little of the history of the line ... Your footage brought back many happy memories ....particularly Southwold Common...
Good evening absolutely brilliant video so very interesting i really enjoy the history of the railway that you have visited the hard work you put into is fantastic so very enjoyable 😊
This is a remarkable video. Beautifully written, beautifully edited, and the presentation is just perfect. I was hooked from start to finish. A marvelous and piece of work, congratulations to all involved. And good luck with the railway restoration - you are right, it would make a brilliant preserved line!
I love the now-and-then visual overlays. As a railway enthusiast , i can always spot old railway right-of-ways when travelling thru the countryside. I find old abandoned railways quite .. wistful? . Thank you for a delightful video. ;)
Much appreciate your 4K filming and all the old footage. Well done to the volunteers who have done great work restoring sections of this lovely little line.
What a beautifully produced presentation. I love the abundance of pretty pastoral scenery and your sensitive judgement of the blend of archive and modern film to tell the historical story. Thank goodness too, for good quality drone scenes. I almost feel I want to rush out and discover it for myself right now ! It would make a great day out on the bike. And who is that nice looking young woman on the bench at Walberswick, (14:35) ? Huge thanks !
It was certainly worth waiting for this thank you. I know its off your beat but it would be great if you could use your skills on the Great Northern line through Derby. It was closed in the late 60's (surprise surprise) and linked Burton upon Trent with Nottingham going through Derby Friargate Station on the way, hence this well loved lines' nickname "The Friargate Line" It has been done before but not in your style and depth. Thanks again, brilliant and as I said, worth the waiting.
Another excellent film. Wonderful. Thank you for spending the time and effort on this sadly lost line. I have always been surprised that it did not end up in the Stephens Empire, another avenue of speculation to explore one day....
What a lovely little documentary. One point, the replacement for the old swing bridge is ex-Royal Engineers Bailey Bridge. And yes, I've built a few of them in my timn!
What a fantastic video. Just like watching a television documentary. I spent a lot of my childhood around that area so this was fascinating to watch, thank you so much.
Another brilliant film, and I loved how skilfully you wove the archive footage in with the contemporary equivalent. One has to wonder whether the railway’s fortunes might have been happier if it had been built in standard gauge right from the start. We will never know, but in the meantime, kudos to all the volunteers working to bring at least some of it back to life!
Many thanks! I feel that even as a standard gauge, it would not have survived the 1960s at the latest...more's the pity! So glad you enjoyed the film 🙏
Another excellent piece of work, very informative. I’d never heard of this line until this video came about so now I’m better informed. Sadly this line looks like it closed due to lack of sufficient funds and little use of the line, a seemingly good idea that didn’t pan out. Thanks again for your hard work and time involved.
Do enjoy this film in *4K* where possible. If you have not already done so, would you be able to *like* this film, *comment* and *share* it as widely as possible? This spreads the word of both the film and my channel...I would be delighted to obtain 30,000 subscribers by the end of the year, though with my occasional output and niche subject matter, I appreciate this is rather ambitions!
Have you considered emailing Southwold Railway Trust about your video? Maybe they'll be willing to link to this excellent video, and perhaps you could link to their website in the video description in return. Just an idea. :)
@Tiger313NL a very fine idea indeed. When I was making the film, I did attempt to contact them for the purposes of research, but I never received a reply.
A fantastic video, made even better by using archive footage and photographs. You have certainly brought this railway back to life via your film. Well done all the volenteers and society members who have spent a lot of time and effort on relaying some of the track and clearing the trackbed to enable us to walk most of the line.
Glad you enjoyed it and all power to the volunteers!
As someone very much involved presently in actively restoring this wonderful line, I enjoyed watching this and well done to you for providing us with such an enjoyable and informative film.
I'm so glad it stands up to the scrutiny of someone 'in the know' such as yourself!
A daunting task for so few volunteers. If only the energy’s and skills of say 500 of the men hemmed up in hotels could be put to use, the line would be restored in months.
Impecable delivery,research, and content, always a pleasure to watch. You are a very talented person. Thank you.
Wow, thank you very much 🙏
Yeah, mate, your production quality is first-rate. Uplifting music, varied shots, great find and use of archive materials, fabulous post-production.
You have a real talent for this kind of documentary making. You could easily do this for a living.
@@k.r.baylor8825 You are very kind, thank you! if I could do this full time, I'd be delighted!
@@RediscoveringLostRailways Your diction is impeccable, too.
@1anhunter1 very kind of you to say so, thank you 🙏
Simply the best documentary series on UA-cam.
That's a very great compliment, thank you
As ever the research is fantastic, the archive footage and the present day footage so skillfuly edited, this is a television level documentary as good as the BBC could make. Thank you.
Wow, thank you - that's really very kind!
It must have been a pleasure to travel on this line ...I can imagine if it returned it would make a fantastic tourist attraction..
Agreed on both counts!
Especially for the Latitude festival
Ahhh, the definitive story of the southwold that o have craved for years! Bravo!
That is a very great compliment, thank you
Each time, I am delighted at the research and crafting of these great videos. Always worth the wait.
Wow, thank you!
Wow, what a beautifully researched video, with very clear narration. I was surprised at the sheer variety of great scenery on the route. And I was further surprised to see how much of the route survives. The volunteers have made a great start with 'boots on the ground', and momentum is clearly on their side. The railway will surely be a great asset to Southwold.
Thank you very much for your kind words and comment, greatly appreciated. Do subscribe if you've not already done so and enjoy my other films in the series.
Wonderful! Terrific film. The Southwold Corporation didn't want the railway in Victorian times, and I suspect the wealthy locals and Londoners who own the town today are not supportive of the excellent preservation efforts. It's a pipe dream, but just imagine 3' gauge trains running from Southwold to Halesworth once again!
Wouldn't it be wonderful! So glad you enjoyed the film 🙏
I understand the attitude in the town at the eastern end is much the same today.
As much of a narrow gauge nut as I am, the entire transhipment process rendered the line uneconomic as soon as demobbed servicemen were able to buy ex-WD lorries to open their own haulage businesses. The effect on the perennially skint Southwold was such that the area didn't even need to await more the powerful diesel buses which over the next decade, did for many a branch line, long before BR, let alone Beeching.
It says a lot that even the redoubtable Col.H.F Stephens, that patron saint of railway lost causes, never got involved.
Stunning film. The work you do to make these videos is really appreciated by all of us. Super footage and so interesting to watch. This line needs to be brought back to life. Thank you.
Thank you very much - such a very kind thing to say!
This was excellent. The mix of period footage, use of drones and current footage on the ground was perfect. Nice to see some preservation activity too!
Thank you very much!
Amazing video! for a line that closed so early I wasn't expecting to see as much video footage from operation! Some real gems still to see on this line and great to see some of the work carried out at Blythburgh such a beautiful part of England.
Thank you very much!
First rate video on this lovely line. Your narration is spot-on and the combination of archive photos and film, interspersed with present day footage and drone useage makes for a very watchable programme. I was unaware that the trust had been so productive in recreating small pockets of the line.
Glad you enjoyed it - it was such a pleasure to make!
I hardly ever comment on videos but having stumbled across this one today I just had to say how fantastic it was! Excellent production values, obviously thoroughly researched, and the mix of drone, on the ground and archive footage/photos really brought the story of the line to life. I’ve now subscribed and can’t wait to watch all your others. Thank you!
@richardblewett6078 I'm so pleased you've found my channel and I hope you enjoy my films. May I personally recommend my film concerning the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway which I hope you enjoy 🙏
I liked Southwold, the very essence of what a market town should be. Like so many in the East Anglian coastal area, it was neglected by all but the lower classes who depended on it, then came sufficient affluence to the local landowners that they preferred to have their motor car and it lost their support. Others that went the same way can be found a little further south on the Essex peninsulas
Many thanks for your comment and thoughts.
Sadly Southwold is now mostly owned by Londoners - all second homes and holiday lets. It's not a real town any more.
I’ve known Southwold since I was a nipper. Great to see the history of the line. Pretty sure I remember some structure by the harbour many years ago that may have had something to do with the railway.
I hope the film provoked happy memories!
I hope one day that it can be restored as a heritage railway. The scenery is fantastic and tourists would just love it. I have bicycled some of the route. 30” gauge could be replaced with a cheaper 15” for tourists from Southwold to Walberswick? Like Bressingham Gardens? Just a thought, it all costs money. Great film, well done and thank you 👍🏼🇬🇧👏🏻🥳🇬🇧
Many thanks indeed - and yes, a heritage line of some description would be such a boon to the area!
The railway was 3ft gauge, not 30 inch. The trust already has several items of rolling stock in the original gauge, including two locomotives, one a new build replica so 3ft gauge it is...
@@MorrisPV If Economy is the desired effect from making Tourists smile,
24 inch or 60 Cm equipment can still be located.
The Wiscasset Waterville and Quebec line have bee busy assembling some lovely rolling stock,
in that once popular gauge.
That group may have demonstrating as well as any historical group,
how you can apply the maximum amount of Humans per mile, or smile,
as any other Gauge being operating anywhere.
@@danielhutchinson6604 So, what do you suggest the Southwold Railway Trust should do with the new build working 3 foot gauge replica of Blyth that was recently completed?
@@MorrisPV Dual Gauge Tracks are found all over the Planet.
The cost of an extra rail, is not a game changer.
I believe we can provide real transportation preservation and historical sites that will provide actual transportation facilities as well as historical presentations that function as a normal part of life.
Cars now appear to have become a Wealthy Mans Toy.
The cost of a fine automobile as well as the insurance has been driven to a point that the majority of humans are incapable of providing.
We can create Rail transport facilities that offer an alternative and maintain the Past for those who might desire a glimpse of what was at one time a common method of transport.
Hi, Again fantastic job, (my wife's grandad was born there ,as many of the time was a fisherman, hard job), everyone thinks it the best thing to do get the of the railways, now it's get rid of the car's, (back to the horse and cart, Thanks for the enjoyment, , All the best Brian
Glad you enjoyed it
Such a talented, so expertly researched, filmed, edited and narrated channel doesn’t deserve 30k subscribers, you deserve 300k. Thank you so much for posting, enjoyed every second.
You really are very kind, thank you
Definitely. This is my first and I'm speechless at the quality and professionalism. It certainly won't be my last
@TheOriginal_BigMac you are very kind, thank you, please subscribe and rummage about my channel. Thank you again 🙏
Knowing my interest in old railways a family member brought me a copy of the "Narrow Gauge Album" 1961 by P.B. Whitehouse that she randomly came across in a second hand store - unusual considering I'm in South Africa! And yes - there on pages 78 and 79 is the section on this railway. As per that section "It displayed an unusually stubborn reluctance to lie down and die decently".
Wonderful quote! Thank you so much for sharing!
The perfect late evening trip through lovely countryside. I do hope planning permission and funding is forthcoming, it would be a delightful heritage line judging by what you've shown. Loved the archive footage and photos, and the fast runs through trees and cow parsley. Delightful as always, and great to learn about a line I knew nothing about.
Thank you for your kind words and ongoing support!
An absolutely fascinating commentary of the Southwold Railway.. hope it has a reserection.
Thank you - so glad you enjoyed it!
Thank you so very much for taking us on this journey on this beautiful railway through England's green and pleasant land. Had it survived it would indeed have been a very popular heritage railway usefully commencing the journey at a mainline station and travelling to the most attractive of destinations at Southwold. We are indeed most grateful for the heritage association that have preserved parts of the line. We are absolutely delighted with the work that you have done in providing us with this excellent production.
Thank you for your very kind words and comment - much appreciated
A nice video! I've met the guy who took some of the film of the Southwold Railway! The harbour line once had tracks and a buffer stop at Blackshore Quay, but that has all gone except the one bit of rail you spotted. The original railway bridge spans were still extant at the time (1971) when I took my footbridge photo - which I see you've used in your video. Had you looked through my stuff you might have spotted a sign that said 'Halesworth for Southwold' - yet another photo of mine - that sign survived on the platform at Halesworth until about 1973.
I'm very glad you got in touch because it is a really fine photo of that bridge and I greatly enjoyed reading your notes on the subject. Thank you for your kind words about my film 🙏
Loved this as much as I love Southwold
I hope you like Southwold a lot! Many thanks :)
Well, everyone else beat me to giving you accolades about this very well presented and produced video of this obscure little branch line. I thank you because it actually added life to my Middleton Press book of the Southwold Railway! Thanks again😀👍🏻
Wow, thank you! Very kind!
That's an interesting video. I spent a few days in Southwold during 2023. I was not aware of the railway until the final day, hence I could not explore it. I did find an old faded photograph in a local charity shop, showing the station. It does not have a photographers name on it, only stating Train entering Southwold station, with the number S 9663.
Thank you, and well done on your find in the charity shop!
Enjoyed this immensely... What a fun way to spend an afternoon
I'm so pleased you enjoyed it 🙏
Absolutely adore everything about this channel
You are very kind and always welcome here 🙏
@@RediscoveringLostRailways I work in the rail industry and love disused and old railways . This is the place for me
@@ste2442 Sorry - I only just saw your reply - I'm all the more pleased to have the approval of an insider, so to speak!
@@RediscoveringLostRailways I grew up near the north Liverpool extension line and used to play on it (after it had been ripped up ) near Walton triangle . I now live about 8 miles from there near what was Halewood triangle . It’s a fascinating disused bit of infrastructure. Absolutely no fore sight those responsible for taking it off the network .
What a lovely line with a coastal gem at the end. Thank you for this evocative portrayal.
My pleasure 🙏
Brilliant film thank you! I managed to see many of the remaining traces on a visit some years ago. I have a great photo of my late wife, looking bemused, sitting on the Walberswick bench. I also found some bits of rail at the harbour branch. There have been many additions thanks to supporters of the line. Your video brings it all together forming a complete trip along the line. Excellent.
Glad you enjoyed it and that it stirred some happy memories
So glad that someone has properly covered this line! Also No.4 was a Manning Wardle design
Thank you - and thank you for the correction - locomotives were never my strong suit!
As always an amazing video incredibly well crafted, great research inserting old paintings, footage and HD drone images. Mind, soul and heart on every single one of them, you brought back railway nostalgia in flawless way.
Many thanks indeed!
Wonderful to see the old railway. I used to live in Southwold and often walked the old track route from the Southwold station, over the marshes and bridge to Walberswick. We once had a midnight walk with our local Red Cross youth group from Southwold to Halesworth, creepy at night but lovely views during the day. Many thanks for bringing back so many memories of the old line and keep up the good work.
A lovely part of the world and a delightful walk...not sure about a nocturnal perambulation though!
This was well worth the wait and many thanks for all the time and effort this must have & it should definitely reopen as an attraction i highly doubt that this will happen though i have brought you a coffee to say thanks😀
Glad you enjoyed it and thank you for your generous contribution!
It's an easy and enchanting ramble, Southwold to Blythburgh, on the old line, ending at a fine pub. Return to the river, turn right and, from the pub, walk back to town across the fields.
Yes, quite delightful
What a beautiful film of a lovely part of the world. I never knew this line had existed, and on recent holidays to Walberswick and Southwold I wondered why such an important town isn't rail connected. When my daughter has joined us for a few days I've dropped her off at Darsham to catch the London train. What a delightful trip right through to Southwold it could be.
@LFBsmokealarm so glad you enjoyed the film. Yes, a trip by steam along this route would be such a delightful experience!
The HSNGR volunteers have done an amazing job.
Just so!
Thank you for this beautiful history film about the Southwold Railway line. I hope to see more films like this one, in the future.
Glad you enjoyed it
Thank you once again for another wonderful, informative and evocative film. Personally i would like to see all the old railways still with us!. I have never really read much about this railway, compared to the L&B or the Welsh narrow gauge ones, thanks again
My pleasure - a really wonderful line to explore!
Excellent video, thank you. An area I visited a few times with my wife and children when we lived near the Herts/Essex border. Happy times!Fascinating to see the old footage and what remains.
Glad you enjoyed it and that it stirred some happy memories!
As an ex-resident of Westleton, and a current resident of the USA, this was a wonderful video. Places I used to know, interlaced with fascinating shots of a largely forgotten railway. Well Done!
Greetings from England and thank you for your comment!
Another excellent documentary from your editing suite, complete with such appropriate music and - as always - top quality informative narration. It's not difficult to appreciate why, with changing economic and social cultures at the time, the railway sadly came to an end. Full marks to the dedicated volunteers who are providing a Southwold railway rennaisance!
You are very kind and I fully agree with your assessment and remarks concerning the volunteers
Good evening and thanks for sharing your latest film.
All the effort you put in is greatly appreciated my friend.
All the very best
☕👍
Thank YOU my friend for your continuing support!
Stunning, such huge potential to be returned to traffic as a heritage line, beautiful scenery, sky's the limit, gr8 video as always 👍👍👌
Glad you enjoyed it - thank you!
A first rate video in evey single respect. Your commentary, particularly, is skilfully constructed and executed. Thank you.
Thank you, you are very kind
History lost forever thank you.👍👍👍👍👍🦘
My pleasure 🙏
Wonderfully produced account, fully doing justice to this unique and much-lamented little railway. The geography and relationship of the various sites along the line are wo much clearer, now, and also just how much still remains. Thank you for this.
Thank you - my very great pleasure!
@ 2:39 Oh I've think I've heard about this before some where about it's 'movable platforms'!!! @17:21 - isn't it always the way - spend a long time looking for something & the moment you stop looking - you suddenly find it!!! 😄🚂🚂🚂
Yes - there's a good documentary on those platforms and how they operated on UA-cam...and as for finding the rail? Spot on!
It never ceases to amaze me just how aerial views reveal the railways that once were, even now: the other day I discovered that it's possible to trace parts of a minor line such as the Edenham and Little Bytham Railway...
Yes, it is quite remarkable!
Southwold is one of my favourite UK coastal towns and we've stayed there several times, the last time in a hotel that was a favourite of Joyce Grenfell, an actress, writer & singer who was most active in the 50's & 60's.
Another very enjoyable & informative video - many thanks.
It is a lovely place and I'm very glad you enjoyed the film!
Another very-well presented video, thank you. I wonder how much this line may have been subject to periodic flooding, or how stable the track bed may have been during wet conditions. Still, best of luck to the heritage folks, gradually restoring the line!
Yes this is something I should have included. It could be extensive, especially towards Southwold!
Another excellent film, really brings the railway, which I was aware of but knew very little about, back to life. Your 'expanded' videos are a delight.
Many thanks!
Excellent stuff yet again. Many thanks for all your hard work in puting this together. 👍🚂
Many thanks for your support 🙏
Visited Southwold for a long weekend quite a few years back, well worth going there as it is an all round interesting and very photogenic town. Stayed at the Blyth Hotel which was originally the Station Hotel and is still in business today, you can see it quite clearly on the right of the picture at 18:36 in the video. It is partly obscured by what I'm guessing may be an engine shed. The defunct police station which still occupies the railway station site closed in 2016 and was operational at the time of my visit. The police station was preceded by Southwold Fire Station at that same site. Liked the video very much, thanks.
Many thanks for these details - I'm glad you enjoyed the film!
We often visit this part of the coast and it’s great to know about the remains and route of this railway, which I had always assumed was a standard gauge line. Many thanks for taking the trouble to cover its history properly.
Glad you enjoyed it and my very great pleasure!
A brilliant combination of extensive footage and brilliant current footage ❤
Many thanks indeed 🙏
I particularly enjoyed the opening quote 😊
I'm not a massive fan of John Masefield's poetry, but I can see why 'Sea Fever' is perhaps his most well known!
Superb quality as always. You clearly spend a lot of time researching and producing these videos.
I certainly try - and even then I don't get everything right - but it really is a labour of love!
A wonderful look at this quirky line. Railways like this were so impractical yet they had fond memories for people who rode them. A well constructed tale, looking forward to more.
Many thanks indeed - more to come, for sure!
Another story beautifully told. Thank you for sharing. So only one thing left to say: Where next? 🚂
Many indeed. Next project is the Hawkhurst branch line in Kent and I'm keeping an open mind about other projects...
@@RediscoveringLostRailways looking forward to it 👍. Can I suggest the branch lines around Midhurst in West Sussex. With lines running to Chichester, Pulborough and Petersfield.
Amazing production values as usual from your channel. Many thanks for the enjoyment you give us. Regards, Robert.
Glad you enjoyed it, my pleasure 🙏
I do love your videos. Old trains (steam especially) have always interested me. Those combined with sort of urbex is a match made in heaven.
Thank you very much! And I share your enthusiasms!
Thank you for a lovely film of a wonderful lost railway.
My very great pleasure!
Another first class video. Superbly narrated and perfectly edited footage. Bravo
You're very kind, thank you
Grew up in Halesworth. When I was at Halesworth Middle there used to be a signal box in the ground with all the museum stuff in it. The restoration work on the line wasn't carried out then but I spent many hours as a teenager playing on/around bridge number 2.
Wonderful memories! Thank you!
Another excellent film! Lovingly put together and worthy of a TV documentary channel
Thank ever so much, as always!
Wow, I really enjoyed the video 👍 it is amazing that some sections let alone a station has been preserved and this kinda reminds of the Lynton & Barnstable where it too has many stations restored. I will be surprised if the Southwold Railway will get planning permission to restore a section to run the replica of the original steam loco in the near future.
Glad you enjoyed it and I hope the railway is at least part of the line is restored 🙏
The 'Red Lion' pub in Southwold used to have a collection of framed postcards in a humorous genre on a bar wall - it perhaps still does . . .
I think I know the ones you mean
What a beautiful part of Britain. As always a very professional video, well documented and narrated. As you said . Would have made a very interesting heritage railway line. Great video. Keep up the excellent work. 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
Many thanks - and you're absolutely right - delightful landscape!
A well researched illustrated and commented film. Congratulations. It would be interesting to find out if the original Act was ever repealed. If not then it still exists unless there is a specific abandonment clause.!
Many thanks for your thoughts and kind words about my film
Superb video again, an absolute masterpiece.
Always a real pleasure to watch.
As I have said before, the work and effort you put into these videos is appreciated. 👍🙂
You have been such an encouraging voice across the years, I am delighted this does not disappoint
Great video. Having visited Southwold (and Walberswick) many times from my home in Norfolk, I was unaware this railway had ever existed. Having an interest in 'old' railways I, like many others, found your look back at how things were very enjoyable. It would be a dream come true to see some of the line around Southwold restored and, with a live steam powered train, would give the town an extra attraction for the residents and visitors alike. Maybe one day....
Wouldn't it be a wonderful boon to the area? Glad you enjoyed the film!
Wonderful.....It is always good to watch a master of his craft present something new. Thank you
Thank you very much! Your ongoing support is greatly appreciated 🙏
Superb documentary of a long extinct line.
My grandparents lived in Southwold and then Halesworth in later years ...so I knew both towns aswell as a little of the history of the line ...
Your footage brought back many happy memories ....particularly Southwold Common...
Glad you enjoyed it and that it has provoked some happy memories!
Delightful, and still so much to be seen and enjoyed.
Many thanks indeed!
Brilliant!
Thank you!
@@RediscoveringLostRailwaysvery good video 🙏
Good evening absolutely brilliant video so very interesting i really enjoy the history of the railway that you have visited the hard work you put into is fantastic so very enjoyable 😊
Many thanks indeed!
This is a remarkable video. Beautifully written, beautifully edited, and the presentation is just perfect. I was hooked from start to finish. A marvelous and piece of work, congratulations to all involved. And good luck with the railway restoration - you are right, it would make a brilliant preserved line!
You are very kind, thank you. Do subscribe if you've not already done so and enjoy my other films in the series 🙏
I love the now-and-then visual overlays. As a railway enthusiast , i can always spot old railway right-of-ways when travelling thru the countryside. I find old abandoned railways quite .. wistful? .
Thank you for a delightful video. ;)
Couldn't agree more! So glad you enjoyed the film.
Much appreciate your 4K filming and all the old footage. Well done to the volunteers who have done great work restoring sections of this lovely little line.
Many thanks! And agreed!
Brilliant video, made me feel nostalgic.
Then my work here is done! Many thanks!
Another excellent film, you capture perfectly the spirit of a bygone age. Thank you.
Thank you - and my pleasure!
Another fantastic video at broadcast quality. Thank you, sir.
Very kind of you to say so 🙏
Such an amazing journey ; thank you
My pleasure!
An absolutely charming and adorable video. Well done, keep up the fantastic quality work.
You are so kind, thank you
What a beautifully produced presentation. I love the abundance of pretty pastoral scenery and your sensitive judgement of the blend of archive and modern film to tell the historical story. Thank goodness too, for good quality drone scenes. I almost feel I want to rush out and discover it for myself right now ! It would make a great day out on the bike. And who is that nice looking young woman on the bench at Walberswick, (14:35) ? Huge thanks !
I'm so glad you enjoyed the film, it was a joy to make. Many thanks indeed.
It was certainly worth waiting for this thank you. I know its off your beat but it would be great if you could use your skills on the Great Northern line through Derby. It was closed in the late 60's (surprise surprise) and linked Burton upon Trent with Nottingham going through Derby Friargate Station on the way, hence this well loved lines' nickname "The Friargate Line"
It has been done before but not in your style and depth.
Thanks again, brilliant and as I said, worth the waiting.
I will certainly look into it. Thank you for the tip!
Another excellent film. Wonderful. Thank you for spending the time and effort on this sadly lost line. I have always been surprised that it did not end up in the Stephens Empire, another avenue of speculation to explore one day....
Many thanks indeed!
I did enjoy that video. absolutely well done, and what a charming railway and a lovely part of the country
I am so glad you found the film fulfilling - thank you
What a lovely little documentary.
One point, the replacement for the old swing bridge is ex-Royal Engineers Bailey Bridge.
And yes, I've built a few of them in my timn!
Thank you for your comment and that bit of information, much appreciated!
What a fantastic video. Just like watching a television documentary. I spent a lot of my childhood around that area so this was fascinating to watch, thank you so much.
@howardosugars8922 so glad you enjoyed it, thank you for your kind words and comment 🙏
Another brilliant film, and I loved how skilfully you wove the archive footage in with the contemporary equivalent. One has to wonder whether the railway’s fortunes might have been happier if it had been built in standard gauge right from the start. We will never know, but in the meantime, kudos to all the volunteers working to bring at least some of it back to life!
Many thanks! I feel that even as a standard gauge, it would not have survived the 1960s at the latest...more's the pity! So glad you enjoyed the film 🙏
new subscriber from Australia 🇦🇺
👍🏻🔥🚬🤠
Always good to have an antipodean cousin aboard! Welcome! Have a rummage around the channel and let me know what you think of what you find. 🙏
@@RediscoveringLostRailways already shared the video ☝️ yes for sure ❤️ love you guys over in England 🙏
Another incredibly well made video many thanks.
Many thanks to you too!
Another excellent piece of work, very informative.
I’d never heard of this line until this video came about so now I’m better informed.
Sadly this line looks like it closed due to lack of sufficient funds and little use of the line, a seemingly good idea that didn’t pan out.
Thanks again for your hard work and time involved.
Thank you very much for your ongoing support, it is greatly appreciated
Absolutely fantastic video! Thank you!
Glad you enjoyed it!
A delightful educational video thankyou.
My pleasure - thank you!