Watching trains safely

Never go on or near the track.

Trespassing on the railway is a criminal offence, and trains are faster and quieter than you expect, especially from behind. Steam specials share the line with ordinary trains running at full speed.

At stations

Stay behind the yellow line, and keep bags, tripods and children well back. Do not lean over the platform edge for a photograph.

At level crossings

Obey the lights, barriers and signs every time. Never stop on a crossing, and never cross when the lights are flashing, whatever you can or cannot see coming.

At bridges and lineside spots

Stay on the public side of fences and walls. Do not climb on structures, and do not stand where you block a road or a path.

Photography

Choose your spot early, stay in it, and let the train come to you. Never step onto the track for a better angle; people have died doing exactly that.

Drones

Flying near the railway can be illegal and dangerous. Follow the Civil Aviation Authority’s rules and the railway’s own restrictions.

Times

Some operators do not publish times, to keep crowds away from unsafe spots. We respect that and so should you. Where times are published we link to Realtime Trains, which is the right place to check on the day.

Official guidance

Network Rail and British Transport Police publish safety guidance: Network Rail, safety in the community and British Transport Police. If you see someone on the line, call 999.