Footplate to Footpath

is a unique new book about the lost railways of the Isle of Wight.

With the aid of specially drawn maps and numerous "now and then" photographs, author Adrian Hancock reveals the often surprising locations and histories of nearly 40 stations abandoned in the countryside or hidden away amongst modern houses, shops, factories and road junctions; and tells you exactly what is left to be seen.

Although only twenty-one miles by thirteen, the island once boasted over 50 miles of track. Dedicated maps clearly show which roads to take to follow the lines and show the many parts of the old trackbed which have been converted to cycleways and footpaths allowing the reader to experience the train drivers' view whilst enjoying a country walk or bike ride.
Footplate to Footpath
by Adrian C. Hancock

Will be published by The Hastings Press, October 2008

ISBN 9781904109129

Email us to pre-order this book and reserve your signed copy straight off the press!


iow railways


Download a free sample page



Whether exploring by foot, bicycle, bus or car Footplate to Footpath will show you how to spot the tell-tale signs of the course of the railways through the countryside and will lead you to discover a fascinating collection of bridges, sites of level crossings, station masters' houses, tunnels, fragments of platform and even complete stations along the way; you will never look at the Island in the same way again. You can also solve some mysteries such as, why is there a model signal gantry and the "End of the Line Café" in the grounds of a garden centre in Freshwater?

This fascinating, station-by-station guide is indispensable for railway historians, tourists, ramblers, Isle of Wight residents and anyone keen to explore the industrial archaeology of the island.










iow