Goodbye Fort William

It was raining as I left our accomodation early in the morning. However, I managed to get a cab to the station, which building, quite a few years ago, had been moved from the shores of the loch to the other end of town.

This "parting shot" along Loch Linnhe towards Fort William was taken yesterday evening,
but it also fits in nicely here to give a final impression of the landscape around Fort William.

At the station, I had a look around and managed to buy two small books describing the history of the railway lines from Fort William to Mallaig and to Fort Augustus. Interesting reads and nice souvenirs! All presented in a paper bag with a nice "Thistle" pattern!

Both books were from Famedram Publishers Limited.
Both with latest revision and copyright dating to 2009.

Eventually, the first train out of Fort William was ready to depart for Glasgow. The short train was formed by a two car DMU. The train was ordinary. The views were extrordinary. A fitting end to a visit to the Highlands.

Scenic Rail to Glasgow

The journey back to Glasgow was indeed very scenic - lots of wild and mountainous scenery with very little habitation until the Clyde and the outskirts of Glasgow were reached. The wet weather gave a special dramatic effect to the views from the train. The Highland mists were often punctuated by some brighter interludes. Gradually the train wended its way through every changing views of moors, mountain and lochs - the very essence of the Highlands. And so eventually to the River Clyde and bustling City of Glasgow.

An aura of mystery surrounds Loch Treig.




The hostel at Corrour is a Mecca for walkers. No cars for miles.
The train lighting gives an additional effect.




The raindrops falling on the window, the trees, the little pond, and the platelayers hut, all conspire to give an impressionist quality to this view to the west of Corrour station.




The upper reaches of the Firth of Clyde hove into view and
Queen Street is perhaps only an hour or so away.

West Coast Main Line to London

The West Coast Main Line (WCML) from Glasgow Central to London Euston is regarded as the busiest railway line in the UK. It was formed from a number of constuent railway companies, many dating back to the early Victorian age. In the Railway Grouping, in Great Britain, on 1st January 1923, the West Coast Main Line became part of the London, Midland and Scottish Railway (LMSR), which also served areas as far afield as the West of Scotland north of Glasgow, North Wales and even south Essex.

Crest of the LMSR
Top: The City of London
Lower Left: Red Roses for Lancaster
Lower Right: Thistles for Scotland

It certainly is an interesting route with a length of 399 miles (642 Km) and a timing of about five hours. South of Glasgow, the line traverses the Scottish Southern Uplands and crosses the Border just north of the former English garrison town of Carlisle, which is steeped in history. Carlisle is followed by Penrith and Oxenholme, which are gateways to the Northern and Southern Lake District. Then comes Carnforth which is famed for the film, "Brief Encounter" as well as the Railway Heritage Centre. The WCML passes the edge of Morecambe Bay, before reaching Lancaster. Next is Preston, but before that, it is possible to see Blackpool Tower from the train. Between Preston and London Euston, further possible stops are Wigan, Warrington, Crewe, Stafford, Rugby, Milton Keynes and Watford Junction, but my train sped through most of them.

As an added bonus, a first class carriage on my train had been downgraded to standard class. Hence, I had first class relaxation on my journey to the South. A fitting finale to a very successful away break!

Looking Back

Once again, especial thanks to Elaine, Jim and Yvonna who freely drew on their time, resources and experience, to give us all a memorable must-visit-again holiday in a splendid location. Thanks, of course, also to Jim and other event organisers and car drivers who all played their part in this fantastic trip.

We had a full agenda, including Ben Nevis (must do!) and Glen Nevis. We covered parts of the West Highland Way, on our walks from Fort William to Kinlochleven and Glencoe to Kinlochleven. The Caledonian Canal and the "Parallel Roads" were also on our schedule. And no visit would have been complete without a visit to the Glenfinnan Viaduct and the view across to Loch Shiel - where Bonnie Prince Charlie landed. We also went off the beaten track to visit Tioram Castle (rems of!), and Kentra Bay. I also managed to complete one of the "Greatest Railway Journeys of the World", by taking the Iron Road to The Isles, travelling to Mallaig and then taking the boat from Mallaig to the "Porpoise Isle".

A very memorable several days away!

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