Unusual Train Features and Curiosities in the United Kingdom: A Journey Through Time
A journey aboard a train in the United Kingdom reveals a unique blend of history and innovation that goes beyond the ordinary. This article explores some of the unusual and fascinating aspects of train travel and railway infrastructure in the UK, blending historical facts with modern engineering marvels.
Railway Infrastructure Uniquely UK
If you are familiar with train journeys, you might often focus on the views outside the window. However, the railway infrastructure itself in the UK has several unique features that make it stand out globally. One such feature is the use of AWS (Automatic Warning System) magnets and TPWS (Train-borne Protection by way of Wheel) grids. These safety mechanisms ensure passenger safety, a necessity that has been recognized through various initiatives. Additionally, old ATP (Automatic Train Protection) cables can still be spotted, though they have not been entirely removed in many areas.
Another curious aspect is the raised platforms used by UK railways, which differ from the European standard where platforms are generally at track level. This unique design choice has been in place for decades, providing a more comfortable experience for passengers, especially during inclement weather.
Describing Train Direction: Up and Down
A remarkable convention in UK railway operations is the terminology used to describe the direction of train travel. Instead of using north, south, east, or west, railway staff refer to "up" and "down" lines. This method has its roots in the center of the country, with "up" denoting the direction towards London and "down" representing trains leaving London. This convention has been in place since the early development of the railway network and remains a significant part of the UK's railway heritage.
Why England Built Them That Way
The way UK railways were initially built is often a topic of curiosity and debate. A common question is, "Why did the English build them like that?" This was influenced by the early railway pioneers who used the same gauge of tracks as the pre-railroad tramways. This gauge was determined by the spacing of the wheels of wagons, which was set to match the width of the wheel ruts carved in the roads by Roman war chariots.
A detailed explanation of this historical fact highlights how the United States standard railroad gauge of 4 feet, 8.5 inches was influenced by the same wheel spacing. The unique feature of the Space Shuttle solid rocket boosters, which could only fit through a mountain tunnel built to the width of a horse's behind, showcases the long-standing impact of this measurement on modern transportation systems. It's a testament to the enduring influence of ancient Roman engineering and the practical constraints of early transport systems on contemporary design.
A Space Shuttle and a Horse's Behind
One of the most amusing and lesser-known stories in engineering is the relationship between the Space Shuttle's solid rocket boosters and the width of a horse's behind. During the design of the Space Shuttle, engineers wanted to maximize the payload capacity of the solid rocket boosters. However, these components had to be transported by train, and they had to fit through a mountain tunnel which was slightly wider than the railroad track. The railroad track, as mentioned, is about as wide as two horses standing side by side, a width set by historical adherence to the wheel spacing of Roman and medieval wagons. Thus, the design of what is arguably the world's most advanced transportation system on Earth was determined by a seemingly quaint measurement from the Roman era. It's a great reminder of how engineering decisions can be influenced by historical and practical considerations over time.
These unique aspects of UK railways not only enrich the travel experience but also provide a fascinating insight into the country's rich transportation history. From the unique infrastructure to the quirky naming conventions and historical engineering stories, the UK's railways are a treasure trove of cultural and technological interest.