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Written by Mark Bearton - 02 Jan 2005
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Location notes
Altcar is the southern end of the commuter town of Formby.
Railway type and traffic
The line has a 15 minute frequency worked by class 507/508 EMUs.
Environment
The foot crossing at Altcar is on the edge of fields and is popular with dog-walkers though otherwise very quiet.
Road directions
From the A565 take the roundabout at the southern edge of Formby and head west (signposted to Formby). The road turns right with a building with a lighthouse on the roof to the left. Take the first through road on the left (Altcar Lane). At the end of here, turn left into Hogs Hill Lane. This road becomes a small track and at the gates to the old pumping station turns into a footpath. The crossing is at the end of this path.

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Altcar map co-ordinates
Parking
There is space for about 2 cars near the Pumping Station gates. During the day it is safe to leave them here.
Public transport
The location is a 20-25 minute walk from Formby station.
Turn left out the station and down the bridge. Turn right at the roundabout (Kings Road). At the end turn left then first right (Windsor Road). At the end of here turn right then immediately left (Belverdere Drive). Turn right at the end of here into Hogs Hill Lane. Arriva services 47/48 and CMT service 284 operate frequently between Liverpool and Southport. Alight at the Royal Hotel in Altcar and walk south then turn right into Altcar Lane, then left into Hogs Hill Lane at the end.

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Amenities
There are no amenities at the crossing. There are a few shops, and the Royal Hotel pub, on the main road in Altcar. Formby Town Centre is left at the roundabout at the bottom of the station bridge then first right.
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.
Altcar

Googly map
Streetmap links
Altcar general view map
Altcar close up map

Windows Local Live Link - image quality may vary
Altcar



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Railway Gen Group
Liverpool Rail
Photographic notes
Light is best for trains heading south towards Liverpool. In the morning this is from the east side of the line and so the angle can be tight for trains heading towards you (though of course fine for the rear end of the units). In the afternoon from the east side, and from the adjoining field, you can get shots of approaching trains.


General views - All photographs © Mark Bearton unless otherwise stated
Fig 1 - Looking north


Fig 1 - Looking north


Fig 2 - Looking north


Fig 2 - Looking north

From the field

Fig 3 - Looking south


Fig 3 - Looking south


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