Branch lines: part 1
Let Richard Foster’s pick of the branch lines inspire your next creation starting with the Western Region.
Built for: GWR Terminus: Windsor & Eton Central Main line connection: Slough (London-bristol main line) Opened: October 8 1849 Length of line: 2½ miles Intermediate stations: 1. Chalvey Halt only lasted from February 1929 to October 1930 Closed: N/A Key locomotives you’ll need? ‘14XX’ 0-4-2T, ‘54XX’ 0-6-0PT, ‘61XX’ 2-6-2T. Why’s Windsor & Eton Central special? The GWR is known for its rural branch lines, but it had a selection of interesting lines in the urban Thames Valley. Of these, the branch from Slough to Windsor has a backdrop like no other - Windsor Castle. Unlike the Southern’s station across town, the GWR’S is a grand affair, with arching glass and steel. This was the GWR’S gift to Queen Victoria, to celebrate her Diamond Jubilee in 1897. There’s no other GWR ‘BLT’ like it. It was also a popular excursion destination, bringing through-locomotive workings of 4-6-0s up to and including LMS ‘Jubilees’. What’s left? The buildings still exist - they are now retail and food outlets - but only a single track from Slough is left. The extensive low-level goods yard has been redeveloped. Where can I find out more? Windsor to Slough - A Royal Branch Line by C.R. Potts (Oakwood Press).