Devon & Somerset Railway tunnels
The Devon and Somerset Railway (D&SR) was a cross-country line that connected Barnstaple in Devon, to the network of the Bristol and Exeter Railway (B&ER) at Norton Fitzwarren, near Taunton.
It was opened in stages between 1871 and 1873. The line length was 43 miles and incorporated 2 viaducts at Waterrow and Castle Hill and 4 tunnels.
Running through a rural area it never achieved great importance, although it carried through services to the seaside resort of Ilfracombe for a period. The line closed in 1966.
Travelling in a Westerly direction from Norton Fitzwarren, the first tunnel is the Bathealton Tunnel (440 yards) positioned between the stations of Wiveliscombe and Venn Cross.
East portal
The stonework has been lined with a concrete plaster at some point. Most of the lining has now failed due to the damp conditions.
About half way in, and again towards the western portal, are sections that have been reinforced with concrete, leaving egg shaped galvanised tin passages. These would seem to coincide with minor road crossings overhead.
Western portal
The next tunnel, Venn Cross (246 yards) is about a mile up the line, and at the western end you would pull into Venn Cross station.
The stonework in this one is still in good condition and it's fairly dry.
Eastern portal
The next tunnel on the line would be Nightcote Tunnel, but at only 44 yards it's more of a long bridge, so I've not included it.
Castle Hill tunnel (317 yards) is between the stations of South Molton and Filleigh. It's now in the grounds of a private country estate, which wasn't all bad, as once I'd found the portal I was delighted to see no friggin gates to climb!
South portal
Lovely stone in here. Does get a bit wet as you progress though.
About two thirds of the way through the shape changes with what looks like some reinforcing stonework, forming a more uniform tunnel shape.
North portal
Really enjoyed looking at these. You can bet your life that blood, sweat and tears, literally, went into the construction. Props to the guys that blasted and dug them out.
Hope you liked my little report.......
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