The Watercress Line - Mid-Hants Railway
Overview
The Watercress Line runs between Alresford and Alton in Hampshire. It is noted for steep gradients which make the locos work very hard.
The notes below are gleaned mainly from the official website of the Watercress Line and as such cannot describe more of the detail normally expected on these pages. Nevertheless the Railway seems to have generally good arrangements.
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Car Parking
The Railway recommends wheelchair-user visitors start their journey at Alresford, where special car parking bays are provided, with level access to the Station.
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Getting Tickets
Visitors will find no difficulty reaching the Booking Office, obtaining tickets and accessing the platform.
The Railway appear to offer discounts for groups of wheelchair-users and helpers.
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Platforms
Trains at Alresford leave from the platform that adjoins the Booking Office. The platforms are surfaced and wide.
Access to Watercress Line trains at Alton is not straightforward and the Railway strongly advise wheelchair-user visitors to make join the train at Alresford.
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The Train
Each train can carry up to six wheelchair-user visitors in the brake compartment. Access to the coach is by a ramp which is available at each station. The Railway Staff will provide every assistance. For larger parties there is a specially adapted coach and it would be advisable to book well in advance for this vehicle. There is seating in the brake compartments for helpers.
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Other information
Alton has a suitable toilet on the platform, and there is a suitable toilet adjacent to the station at Alresford. Also, Ropley Station has a suitable toilet.
Access to the Engine Shed at Ropley involves traversing a rough track but it can be done in a wheelchair. and well worth the effort. All shops are fully accessible and the Goods Shed also enjoys excellent facilties.
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Contact information
The above comments are not necessarily those of the Watercress Line. No responsibility is accepted by this web site, the host web site or the Railway for any inaccuracies or ommisions or misinterpretations. The information is simply provided as a guide and any visitors to the Railway are encouraged to check with the Railway before making a visit or journey.
Last updated 30 October 2001
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