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Written by Carlos Ferran - 10 May 2014
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Location notes
This area is located on the Midland Mainline, where you will see plenty of rail traffic. Flitwick is the nearest town with Bedford as the main city in the area.
Railway type and traffic
You will see plenty of Midland Trains and First Capital Connect traction with the occasional freight. The usual traffic are Class 319 EMU's on local workings with HTSs and Class 222 on the express trains.
Environment
The area near the tunnels are pure farmland/forest and is a very quiet place (except for the slight hum from the power lines) You shouldn't expect to disturb anyone, and even if you see someone, they're very friendly. They may ask if a steam special is coming by. If you're interested in farm's, the estate at Park Farm is something to photograph.
Road directions
From the A6, take the B530 to Millbrook Road. Take a left then continue until you cross over a bridge, that is the Midland main line. Continue about 1/4 mile until you see a dirt track to the left. Turn and follow the dirt road until you see a green bridge (caution, this road is riddled with potholes be careful when driving on it). Park up. This is the place.

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Ampthill Tunnels map co-ordinates
Parking
There's an abundance of parking available at this location. In fact there's a nice place to tuck your car in, out of sight and not block anything. There's an access gate used by Network Rail, so just make sure you are clear of it.
Public transport
Click here to set up your location for directions to this location
Amenities
You can try and see if there are any amenities in Millbrook, otherwise, the nearest place would be in Flitwick.
Sun Compass
Sun Compass using Suncalc by brought to you by Vladimir Agafonkin:
It might be necessary to adjust the time to suit your visit, this link should open with the current day.
Ampthill Tunnels

Googly map
Streetmap links
Ampthill Tunnels general view map
Ampthill Tunnels close up map

Windows Local Live Link - image quality may vary
Ampthill Tunnels



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Photographic notes
The place is better suited for shots on cloudy days or during the summer months since the tunnels are to the south. There are trees on all sides so shadows can cast a problem on sunny days. Centenary can also pose an interesting challenge, but thankfully, this area have proper spacing so photography is easier. It's highly suggested you bring some steps so you have an easier time looking over the fence. If you don't have steps, that's ok, the fence is low enough to where you can see over it in a few places. Since this area is so quiet, videography is ideal.


General views - All photographs © Carlos Ferran unless otherwise stated
Fig 1 - Looking north


Fig 1 - Looking north


Fig 2 - Looking south


Fig 2 - Looking south


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