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Written by Ryan J Fuller - 19 Nov 2006
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Location notes
An automatic half-barrier level crossing in a countryside setting - the line is located on the Great Western Main Line near Taunton.
Railway type and traffic
Frequent Traffic passes this level crossing, mainly HSTs, Virgin Voyagers, Class 158s and Class 57s.
The location is a prime spot for Freight workings (around 2 - 3 services per hour during weekdays). A mix of traffic includes Class 66s, 67s, 60s and more!
Environment
A quiet road in the middle of nowhere - there is next door to the the crossing which seems to attract the locals (mainly the local farmers).
Road directions
From the M5 Junction 25:
Take the last exit at the roundabout onto the A358. At the next roundabout take the first exit onto the A38 signposted Taunton. Keep on the A38 for 2 miles until the next roundabout - take the 3rd exit onto Obridge Viaduct Road. At the next roundabout take the 1st exit signposted Minehead. Continue onto the A358 for 7 miles until you reach Norton Fitzgerald - around 500 yards from Norton Fitzgerald turn left onto the unclassified road. Continue on this single track road for around 2 miles, and then turn left onto Allerford Road. The level crossing is 300 yards from here.

You can also follow the signs from Norton Fitzgerald to the Lansdown Inn.

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Taunton, Allerford Level Crossing map co-ordinates
Parking
There is enough parking for up to 3 vehicles on the roadside and there is the pub car park next to the level crossing.
Public transport
Sorry there are no bus services to this location. The nearest buses are 2 miles away in Norton Fitzgerald with frequent services to/from Taunton and Minehead.

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Amenities
There is a pub which serves excellent baguettes next to the location. There are toilets for patrons of the pub and a beer garden. The pub is currently undergoing minor refurbishment but is still open for business (October 2006). There is also a local farm which sells some farm foods.
Accommodation
On the M5 junction (8 miles away) there is a Holiday Inn, HI Express and Travel lodge. The 4 star Holiday inn charges (Oct 2006)�65 p.p.p.n Bed and Breakfast and the travel lodge charges �49 per room per night.
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.
Taunton, Allerford Level Crossing

Googly map
Streetmap links
Taunton, Allerford Level Crossing general view map
Taunton, Allerford Level Crossing close up map

Windows Local Live Link - image quality may vary
Taunton, Allerford Level Crossing



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Railway Gen Group
Wiltshire and Avon Gen
Photographic notes
There is a gate towards the North East side of the crossing which allows you to photograph trains up to 1/2 mile away as they go around the corner. The South side of the crossing is obscured by the trees.
The best side to photograph would be the one closest to the pub - the opposite side is surrounded by trees.


General views - All photographs © Ryan J Fuller unless otherwise stated
Fig 1 - Looking north east


Fig 1 - Looking north east


Fig 2 - Looking south west


Fig 2 - Looking south west


Fig 3 - The sign blocking the view


Fig 3 - The sign blocking the view


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