Britain's 15 Inch Gauge Railways

This book covers the different types and applications of 15" gauge railways from the Duffield Bank Railway of the 1870s (and its antecedents) to the modern pleasure park lines and sites. David Jones has made contact with a number of enthusiasts, some associated with the Miniature Railway Museum Trust, who have contributed illustrations.

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This book covers the different types and applications of 15" gauge railways from the Duffield Bank Railway of the 1870s (and its antecedents) to the modern pleasure park lines and sites. One of the unique features of the 15" gauge lines is the remarkable range of historic locomotives and rolling stock that have either survived in use or been recreated in replica; and whereas most books rely on historic black & white illustrations. This book shows that the 15" gauge story can be illustrated almost entirely from contemporary colour photographs. David Jones has made contact with a number of enthusiasts, some associated with the Miniature Railway Museum Trust, who have been willing to contribute illustrations. The book is arranged in two main parts - text and gazetteer. Text - History of the 15" gauge - two chapters, dividing at 1945 - Locomotives - Rolling Stock - Infrastructure (stations and track) - Bibliography (Also Introduction and 'tailpiece') Gazetteer A brief account of each of the (approx. 38) 15" gauge lines operating at the present day, with locations, contact details, opening times and access, and background information expanding that covered in the main text.
The book sets out to achieve, a fine balance between holding the interest of the "general railway enthusiast" who might buy the book e.g. while visiting a preserved railway bookshop, and including the historic detail researched by specialists. The 15" gauge railways, throughout their existence, have attracted colourful and eccentric personalities and David has included something of the background character of the builders, engineers and operators to give the story "life" and human interest.