Category Archives: Inspiration

Across the Irish Sea – 8

Posted on September 1, 2022 by snitchthebudgie

Last, but not least, we have the 2′ gauge Groudle Glen Railway.  Less than a mile long, and 2′ gauge, it serves the Sea Lion Rocks Tea Room.   The Glen and the viaduct carrying the road and Manx Electric … Continue reading →

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Across the Irish Sea – 7

Posted on August 28, 2022 by snitchthebudgie

Today we visit the Manx Electric Railway sheds and works. Just a photo dump, really.  Lots of trams in all states of repair, and some spare parts! And finally, the works mascot.  If this falls off the building, the MER … Continue reading →

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Across the Irish Sea – 6

Posted on August 27, 2022 by snitchthebudgie

The Snaefell Mountain Railway joins the village of Laxey with the summit of Snaefell, at 2,036 feet above sea level the highest point on the island.  The line is 5 miles (8 km) long, is built to 3′ 6″ gauge.  … Continue reading →

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Across the Irish Sea – 5

Posted on August 26, 2022 by snitchthebudgie

Perhaps it’s worth starting today with two maps of the Isle of Man rail system.  As is now, and as it was, with many more 3′ gauge lines around the island.  It was rather like the Isle of Wight, with … Continue reading →

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Across the Irish Sea – 4

Posted on August 25, 2022 by snitchthebudgie

Douglas is the interchange between the Isle of Man steam railway and the Manx Electric Railway.  Before we venture down the electric line, we’ll spend a day at Douglas and visit the railway works. The seaside…. The station….. Steam to … Continue reading →

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Across the Irish Sea – 3

Posted on August 24, 2022 by snitchthebudgie

Today’s pictures are mostly from Port Erin, one end of the remaining section of the Isle of Man steam railway.  This lovely 3′ gauge system covered much of the island in its heyday.  I was fascinated with it as a … Continue reading →

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Across the Irish Sea – 2

Posted on August 20, 2022 by snitchthebudgie

Looking through all the pictures Allan and Ron have given me, it has been tricky to post them in a logical manner.  Although Ron has provided me with his usual day-by-day (including their ailments), it’s a small island, and they … Continue reading →

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Across the Irish Sea – 1

Posted on August 18, 2022 by snitchthebudgie

As the Goons sung so memorably… I’m walking backwards for Christmas,Across the Irish Sea,I’m walking backwards for Christmas,It’s the only thing for me. As threatened promised, today I’ll start the pictures from Allan’s and Ron’s holiday on the Isle of Man.  … Continue reading →

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A little side trip

Posted on August 14, 2022 by snitchthebudgie

I’ve still got to post pictures from the Dawes Brothers’ trip to the Isle of Man, with lots of steam, electric and horse power.  But for now, here are a few shots from Allan of a trip to Winchester. Class … Continue reading →

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Small Layout Design Handbook

Posted on August 12, 2022 by snitchthebudgie

As regular readers will know, I do like small model railways.  And until recently (with lockdown and retirement) I seemed to design far more layouts than I ever built.  So seeing this book advertised, and spotting the key words ‘small’ … Continue reading →

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