Driver's Eye View: Swindon to Fishguard

The direct line from Swindon, via Bristol Parkway, was built to reduce the journey time from South Wales in conjunction with the Severn Tunnel.

For most of our journey in the cab of a First Great Western High Speed Train, we are travelling through Wales on the country's major main line - the South Wales. Engineered by I.K.Brunel, it was the last main line to be built to the 7ft broad gauge.

One service a day continues to Fishguard in connection with the ferry to the Emerald Isle.

The double line eventually gives way to a single track at Clarbeston Road. The 3/4 mile Fishguard branch is worked by electric token.

The train calls at Bristol Parkway, Newport, Cardiff, Bridgend, Port Talbot, Neath, Swansea, and Whitland.

Narrated by Richard Bath 

Produced by - Video 125
Running time - 118 Minutes
DVD only