A Journey Through Time: Driving Vintage Locomotives on Classic Routes in the UK
Imagine driving the iconic Flying Scotsman steam train from London's Kings Cross to Edinburgh's Waverley station—quite the experience, wouldn't it? Yet, for many train enthusiasts, the allure of the West Country Mainline from London Paddington to Plymouth holds a special charm. Picture yourself piloting a magnificent GWR Castle or King class locomotive along vintage 1930's GWR coaches, span that legendary turf seamlessly. While driving either route non-stop without 'cheating' by utilizing an extra tender would be impossible, the driving experience remains rich with a blend of history and technology.
The GWR Castle and King Classes: Better Than the A3s
Why choose the GWR Castle and King classes over the renowned A3 Flying Scotsman? First, let’s delve into why the Castles were better than the A3s. In exchange trials during the 1920s, the Castles proved to be just as fast as the A3s, but with the edge in hauling heavier train loads and handling gradients more effectively. Additionally, they required less coal, a significant advantage in operations. The Castles were known for their lively and responsive nature, making the driving experience much more enjoyable.
The Kings, a step up from the Castles, brought even more power to the table, akin to driving a classic 1960s muscle car. These powerful engines were the embodiment of railway innovation, offering a thrilling and unmatched experience for the driver and passengers alike.
The Ingenious Route: GWR Mainline vs. East Coast Mainline
The GWR mainline offers a trip that is as flat and fast as you can get. It's no wonder it's nicknamed 'Brunel's Billiard Table,' a reference to its smooth and steady nature. From Paddington to Bristol or Cogload Junction near Taunton, the route is indeed exciting, but once you venture beyond Taunton, the journey becomes dramatically more challenging and interesting. Consider the iconic Wellington Bank climb, the descent into Exeter, and the spectacular run down the Exe Estuary, all the way through Dawlish and Teignmouth, and up the Teign to Newton Abbot. Finally, the enthralling switchback section over the Devon banks into Plymouth all seem to defy your expectations, culminating in a sheer delight for any railway enthusiast.
Journey with Jeremy Clarkson: A Race Against Time
Jeremy Clarkson took a memorable trip along the same route on the footplate of Tornado, the newly built engine, with a full train. He partnered with James May in a Jaguar sports car and Richard Hammond on a Velocette motorcycle, racing each other to see who could make the journey the fastest. Jeremy completed the route, albeit exhausted and filthy, but his journey served to highlight the unique and thrilling experience of driving this vintage locomotive.
Though being the driver might not be as comfortable as operating a high-speed diesel electric engine, it certainly adds a level of historical authenticity and excitement. The modern alternative, like my 2-liter automatic Toyota Avensis with cruise control, makes for a smooth and enjoyable journey but perhaps lacks the thrill of steam power and the rich history.
Embarking on this journey not only provides a nostalgic peek into the past but also offers a fascinating glimpse into the evolution of railway technology and engineering. Next time you plan a trip along these classic routes, consider the joy of driving a vintage locomotive, and relish the memory of a truly exceptional experience.