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Written by Robert Clarke - 02 Aug 2007
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Location notes
Birkhill is located at the opposite end of the Boness and Kinneil Railway. It is the interchange point for the Birkhill clay mine, and is also where trains in passenger service change direction.
The station building came from the 1988 Glasgow Garden Festival, where it was used as an exhibit for the Central regional council plot.
Railway type and traffic
The Boness and Kinneil Railway runs preserved trains along this line, with a growing emphasis on diesels. Most trains are still, however, steam hauled. Preserved diesel traction includes class 26, class 27, class 31, and class 47. Incidentally, during special events, other locos may visit.
Although this is the end of the line for passenger trains, with a run round loop, allowing locos to change ends, the line carries on to Manuel Junction. This part is not used for passenger carrying traffic, but allows access to the main Edinburgh - Glasgow line run by network rail. Railtours, and indeed the ECS for such tours, will traverse south of Birkhill.
It is propsoed that a station will, eventually, be built at Manuel Junction.
Environment
The station is located in a cutting, within a forest. It is a very safe area, as there are always staff on the station, as well as enthusiasts.
There are also guided tours of the clay mines (separate charge) which take an hour, and there are various country walks around the area.
IMPORTANT: Due to the nature of the underground enviornment, disabled access to the clay mines can not be provided. However, the paths around the station are suitable for disabled people.
Road directions
Come off the M9 at junction 4, and follow signs for Linlithgow. Along this road, there will be a small minor road going to the left. From there, look for another road going to the left.
If you are unsure, either contact the SRPS, or Falkirk Council roads department, or tourist information in Falkirk, as to the correct driving conditions and directions.

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Birkhill map co-ordinates
Parking
There is a small car park at the station.
Public transport
It can only be reached by train. The SRPS website gives timetable details.

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Amenities
There is a small shop on the station platform, but this is restricted in what it sells. There are toilets on the path behind the station, and are signposted. The trains also carry toilets!
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.
Birkhill

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

Windows Local Live Link - image quality may vary
Birkhill



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Railway Gen Group
scot-rail.co.uk
Photographic notes
Two spots are on the platform, where you can show locos going into the Manuel section, to allow them to run round the train, and also the bridge immediately to the north of the station, allowing you to do the same thing.
With no traffic noise, you will be able to get diesel loco noise no problem on a video!


General views - All photographs © Robert Clarke unless otherwise stated
Fig 1 - Looking west


Fig 1 - Looking west

Taken from the road bridge.

Fig 2 - Looking west


Fig 2 - Looking west

The loco is running onto the section that continues to Manuel Junction. The loco will stop just past the points, in order that it can run round its train.

Fig 3 - Looking east


Fig 3 - Looking east

From the eastern end of the platform.

Fig 4 - Looking east


Fig 4 - Looking east

Looking towards Boness.

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