Location notes
The line here runs from Southampton to Bournemouth and onwards to Weymouth. The line crosses over the Solent estuary on a low level bridge.
Just to the east is Southampton docks and to the west is Totton Station. A mile or so west is the junction where the line to Fawley and Marchwood splits.
The location is the footpath section of a road bridge over the line.
Railway type and traffic
Passenger traffic consists of SWT 444s to Weymouth and 158s. Virgin Voyagers also pass going to Poole.
Freight wise there are:
EWS trains for the Fawley refinery, and MOD trains from Marchwood.
Freightliner trip workings to Marchwood and the FLHH to Wool also passes this location.
You may also notice units heading up towards Romsey from Redbridge.
Environment
This is a busy dual carriageway (A35) road bridge over the railway line. There is a crash barrier between the footpath and the road. Plenty of people walk / bike along this path as it is the first foot crossing over the Solent estuary. It is fairly open but would not be well lit after dark.
Road directions
From the M27, Junction 3:Head south along the M271 following the signs for Southampton docks. When you reach the end of the road, a roundabout go under the by-pass and join it at the junction. There are lots of traffic and speed cameras in the area so be warned. This by pass crosses over the estuary, immediately, after the bridge take the off ramp and go under the road (this bridge is the location) and once the road is joined again turn round and come back to the by pass. Just before the roads join there is a left turn into a small, gravel, car park.
Redbridge Flyover, Totton Side map co-ordinates
Parking
The car park is a small off road gravel area, used by bird watchers and walkers. From the location you should be able to see your car.
Public transport
The location is a 2 minute walk from Totton Station.
Amenities
Nothing in the immediate area. There is a large Asda on Maynard Road which is a minute or two walk back in the direction of Totton station.
Where on the map
Helpful location information
Railway Gen Group
Photographic notes
The line curves round from Redbridge and comes over the estuary, it is quite a long shot so a telephoto lens is best to capture trains on the bridges. The angle of the line will better suit shots after midday as the sun will come round to the front of the train till late afternoon. Line speed is reasonably slow (50mph).You are standing next to a by pass so traffic noise will be very noticeable on videos.
If you do find this information useful then please feel free to mention how you 'found' the location on your website or magazine submission.
Offical Guidelines for Railway Enthusiasts
British Transport Police Guidelines for rail enthusiaist
Network Rail Guidelines for rail enthusiasts
ATOC/National Rail Guidelines for rail enthusiastsIf you see anything suspicious the British Transport Police can be contacted on their crime telephone number:
0800 405040
Help all us railway enthusiasts get a better name by helping the British Transport Police catch the cable thief's and vandals.
General views - All photographs © Marcus Dawson unless otherwise stated
Fig 1 - Looking north east

Taken with a DSLR at 70mm.
Fig 2 - Looking north east

Taken with a DSLR at 135mm.
Fig 3 - Looking west

Taken from the grass land area directly opposite the A35 by-pass. Just to the left of the train in Fig 1.
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