Location notes
A bridge in the seaside town of Leigh-on-Sea. Urban area with some greenery surrounding the tracks. On the c2c line between London & Shoeburyness, 3 miles west of Southend Central.
Railway type and traffic
Mainly c2c Class 357s (8 per hour off peak), but with some freight services and old units going to Pig's Bay (especially Mk 1s) for storage and scrapping.
Environment
The locals can be quite loud at night as it is a busy Essex seaside town. There is quite a lot of concrete with graffiti, though it is not too obtrusive.
Road directions
Simply follow the A12 from Southend. You can get off the A127 at the Junction for the A129.
Leigh-on-sea map co-ordinates
Parking
There are council-run car parks nearby however they get full quickly, especially in the summer. Do not park in the pub car park or you will be clamped.
Public transport
c2c Leigh-on-Sea station is about 10mins walk from the bridge.
Amenities
Seafood stalls and ice-cream shops are nearby. There is an expensive restaurant and 2 pubs. The pubs have toilets, but there are public loos on the beach.
Where on the map
Helpful location information
Railway Gen Group
Photographic notes
There is a blue handrail which should not get in the way, but it is advised to check before you take any photos. If my memory serves right, trains pass at no more than 55mph. London bound trains are coming in on a curve with a slight cant.
A quick message from a driver,
Please make sure you don't lean over the handrail because trains come quite close and also don't make it look like you are trying to throw your camera at the train!
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.
Links to photographs at this location
General views - All photographs © Joe Patrick unless otherwise stated
Fig 1 - Looking west
Fig 2 - Looking east
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