(Run-time: 1 hour and 47mins approx.)

We begin on the Settle to Carlisle line - the first of two features in this programme looking at current-day traction on this iconic stretch of railway. We view passenger and freight workings near Kirkby Stephen, Ribblehead, Arcow and Hellifield. Steam and ‘Staycation‘ HST workings are seen as well as aggregate workings at Arcow Quarry plus timber and cement workings. Classes 158, 43, 60, 66 and 70 as well as three steam tours featuring ‘Leander’, ‘Tornado‘ and ‘British India Line’.

The Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway Summer Diesel Gala was visited on 12th July 2024. We view preserved diesel traction in action over the line including a ride behind 37 248 with plenty of thrash action from the first coach. 24 081, 37 215, 37 248, 20 228, 20 227, 45 149, 47 105, 47 376 and 26 010 all feature.

We head to Scotland next with a look at the mainline south-west of Perth and the Highland Mainline between Blair Atoll and Dalwhinnie. Classes 158, 170, 802, 66 and HST’s all feature in the spectacular mountain scenery.

The Peak District is our next location as we take a look at the everyday passenger traffic to be found working local services on the line between Buxton and Furness Vale (and on to Manchester). Class 150s and 156s are the passenger units seen as well as a class 66 on stone empties.

The West Coast Main Line is one of the busiest freight and passenger routes in the country; we visit one of the popular train-watching locations along the route. A continual succession of passenger trains sees, classes 350, 390, 221 and 802 screaming through the station on express passenger and local services. Container trains dominate the freight trains with almost all hauled by class 66s with a class 88 breaking the monopoly.

Finally we return to the Settle to Carlisle line as we continue with scenes at Hellifield, Ribblehead and Dent stations. Class 158, 66, 70 and class 60 feature.