Any lines in the UK still using Semaphore?

[texaxile]

Hi,
I'd like to maybe see or film some semaphore signals in action, preferably on a "main" line (unlikely, I know) or otherwise a sidings. I have heard an (unsubstantiated) yarn that they still use the old type signals on the Ely-Huntingdon route, but can't get any confirmation of it.

Anyone here on the PH knowledge base know where they still operate such signals in the Norfolk / Suffolk / Essex area?.

Cheers in advance.

Pete

[baldy1926]

I think the Norwich Cambridge line was until about 4 months ago. I believe the signals are still in place at the junction with the MNR.

[fourwheelsteer]

IIRC Banbury still has semaphore signals at the station.

[Pugland53]

There are quite a few places on the network where semaphores are still used. However, there are large amounts of signal upgrading going on across the network so the amount of semaphores is reducing daily. Quite a few have gone from South Wales in the last few years. If you want to see them do it sooner rather than later.

[silverfoxcc]

Stirling, but quick, they are going soon,station is full of them

[Ross1988]

Think the peterborough to donny line as well.

[Magog]

Pretty certain there are some at Somerleyton.

[wobman]

I can assure there are plenty of lines running semaphore signalling, just pop to Shrewsbury.... You get upper & lower quadrant signals.
Plus large parts of N Wales are still semaphore

[tight5]

some of the newcastle to carlisle line .
most of the blyth and tyne .
norton on tees to norton south ( durham coast )

[P5Nij]

fourwheelsteer said:

IIRC Banbury still has semaphore signals at the station.

Banbury still has two mechanical signal boxes, controlling upper and lower quadrant semaphores and colour lights. Not long for this world though - it'll be gone soon. I worked a Class 6 freight through there yesterday and seeing the semaphores is always a joy.

Worcester is another lovely 'pocket' of semaphore operation, with a fine array of lower quadrants and two large boxes.

[MajorProblem]

North Lincolnshire area

Barnetby East

Wrawby Junction

Ulceby junction to Barton

Immingham Reception

Marsh Junction to Pyewipe

[Tibs]

tight5 said:

some of the newcastle to carlisle line .
most of the blyth and tyne .
norton on tees to norton south ( durham coast )

Talking about my 'office' there. Certainly are Semaphore, and all the better for it. Be a sad day when we close.

[texaxile]

Thanks fellas.
My next task is to actively find somewhere to see them in action with a decent vantage point, then perhaps , if there are some Balfour Beattie boys who want some cash for their tea kitty, maybe even acquire one or two. A long shot I know, but as my brother used to say "shy kids get no sweets"......

Cheers
Pete

[W124Bob]

North Wales to Holyhead is due for resignaling soon, I grew up (railway career wise)with semaphores and have fond memories of the various signal boxes and their staff. Mantle Lane Coalville and regularly stopping the traffic at Coalville crossing box, a pub on all four corners by the crossing! Then when I came to Manchester Victoria semaphores everywhere east and west. Theres some very good youtube footage of Victoria and the surrounding area ,check Panarail https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BGBRg6DQ534

[Tibs]

You'll be at the back of a very long queue of those wanting one or two. Like you say, worth asking.....

[mattdaniels]

The Bluebell Railway in Sussex uses semaphore signals if you want to see them in action.

[Darranu]

Selby through to Brough still use Semaphore signals also

[hidetheelephants]

silverfoxcc said:

Stirling, but quick, they are going soon,station is full of them

Perth up to Aberdeen has plenty of this stuff too; it's like going back in time!

Edited by hidetheelephants on Sunday 21st July 07:39

[tight5]

Darlington to Bishop Auckland , too .

[matchmaker]

hidetheelephants said:

silverfoxcc said:

Stirling, but quick, they are going soon,station is full of them

Perth up to Aberdeen has plenty of this stuff too; it's like going back in time!

Edited by hidetheelephants on Sunday 21st July 07:39

Apart from Perth and Aberdeen themselves! Lots still in Scotland. If you want a real rarity, Tyers No 6 electric tablet instruments are still used at a couple of boxes between Girvan and Stranraer - forget which ones. Only ones remaining on NR, I think.