Written by Ewan Tait - 07 Feb 2004
Location notes
Glen Falloch runs from Crainlarich to the north of end of Loch Lomond. This location is at the high point of the Glen, where it is fairly wide and open and looks out over the West Highland Line.
Railway type and traffic
The West Highland Line sees four passenger trains in each direction. Three of these are 156s which split at Crainlarich, half for Oban and half for Fort William. The Fourth train is the Caledonian Sleeper with a class 67 on the front. There is very little freight, with only one or two trains in each direction, usually hauled by a 66. During the summer months, Saturdays quite often see railtours.

Scotrail timetables:
Glasgow to Fort William and Mallaig
Glasgow to Oban
Overnight Sleepers

SRPS railtours

Scot-rail yahoogroup for freight gen.
Environment
Midge area - take suitable protection!

This is a fairly exposed location so come prepared. If you want to get closer to the railway, a pair of walking boots are recommended.
Road directions
The location is on the A82, check the map for the position to stop.

Glen Falloch map co-ordinates
Parking
There is a wide verge along this road, and a few places where you can pull off the road. Make sure that you pull the car right off the road though, as other vehicles pass by at speed.
Public transport
It's possible to get the train to Crainlarich and walk up the road, or there are four Citylink coaches along here each day, but because of the lack of trains in the area, it's probably not recommended.
Amenities
There is a cafe at the station in Crainlarich. There is also a shop in the village. There is no cash machine though.
Accommodation
There is a Youth Hostel a few minutes walk from the station. There are also some bed and breakfasts and Hotels in the area.
Where on the map

Sun Compass
Open this Image in a new window and use as a sun compass with the links below.

Streetmap links
Glen Falloch general view map
Glen Falloch close up map

Multimap links
Glen Falloch on new multimap
Glen Falloch general view map
Glen Falloch close up map
Glen Falloch aerial view (where available)

Windows Local Live Link - image quality may vary
Glen Falloch
Some areas not available at all zoom levels,.

Helpful location information
Weather forecast
Railway Gen Group
scot-rail.co.uk
Photographic notes
Light will be best in the afternoons, when the sun is behind you. There is not really any bad time of day, as this vantage has such a wide field of view. This wide field of view is great for videographers, as it allows you to follow the train as it crests the summit and then descends down the other side. A telephoto lens is an advantage if you don't want to leave the road side.
I haven't been across to the track side, but judging by all the photographers in the pictures below, it should provide some good shots!

If you do find this information useful then please feel free to mention how you 'found' the location on your website or magazine submission.
Offical Guidelines for Railway Enthusiasts
British Transport Police Guidelines for rail enthusiaist
Network Rail Guidelines for rail enthusiasts
ATOC/National Rail Guidelines for rail enthusiasts

If you see anything suspicious the British Transport Police can be contacted on their crime telephone number:
0800 405040
Help all us railway enthusiasts get a better name by helping the British Transport Police catch the cable thief's and vandals.
Links to photographs at this location
Ewan's Pics
General views - All photographs © Ewan Tait unless otherwise stated
Fig 1 - Looking north east


Fig 1 - Looking north east

This series of photos was taken as the train headed from Crainlarich travelling south towards Glasgow. They were taken from the main road, but you can see where some of the enthusiasts waited.

Fig 2 - Looking north east


Fig 2 - Looking north east


Fig 3 - Looking north east


Fig 3 - Looking north east


Fig 4 - Looking east


Fig 4 - Looking east


Fig 5 - Looking east



Fig 5 - Looking east


Fig 6 - Looking south east



Fig 6 - Looking south east


Disclaimer
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All information contained within this is site is © Trainspots. The images used on this site remain the property of the original photographer, as credited at the top of the page, and are used with their kind permission.

The information on these pages is supplied for the benefit of railway enthusiasts who carry out a harmless hobby, and through the medium of photography and video, actually promote the railway industry. Railway enthusiasts can also act as eyes and ears against railway vandalism, and as such should surely be encouraged to do so by the supply of adequate information such as is found on this website.

This site has been created to assist railway photographers in their travels around the country. It is based on the personal knowledge and experience. No liability can be held against the web site or its contributions for incorrect information. Trainspots will endeavor to check all information and corrections will be accepted and posted accordingly.

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Please enjoy this guide to UK Railway Photographic Locations.