Recalling one of the country’s favourite lines: from beginnings to heyday and the route today.

The Somerset & Dorset remains one of Britain’s best-loved railways. As well as boosting trade in the region and helping people get to and from work, it passed through some stunning scenery and is fondly remembered by holidaymakers and day trippers. This souvenir DVD is the fascinating story of how the railway grew from humble beginnings in the 1850s, when it linked the Somerset towns of Glastonbury and Highbridge, into a mainline route. Eventually it connected the Bristol Channel to the English Channel, and the Midlands and North to the South Coast. Memories of journeys on the famous Pines Express to Bournemouth are particularly cherished.

The story is enhanced by rare archive film, much of which has never previously been released. It is also illustrated by evocative photographs, slides and maps, and most of the old station sites and prominent surviving landmarks are shown as they are today. You will also enjoy the recollections of engine drivers, firemen and other staff who worked on the S & D, as well as those of railway historians, authors and volunteers who are working to keep the spirit of the line alive at Washford, Midsomer Norton and Shillingstone. This is the most comprehensive DVD record of a greatly missed line and will be enjoyed by railway enthusiasts everywhere.