As traditional locomotive haulage declined in the UK and many
enthusiasts' favorite classes were withdrawn or taken off passenger
work, British Rail fans began to broaden their horizons in the 1980s and
look at the railway networks of other countries. For many, their first
ports of call were the nearer continental European countries, with
Germany proving particularly popular as it still featured locomotive
haulage over much of its network, even on the smaller branch lines.
Ireland also proved popular as their services were almost exclusively
loco-hauled. As more enthusiasts traveled abroad and information and
number lists became more available, foreign rail holidays became ever
more popular, with worldwide favorites including the USA, with its long
history of diesel traction and iconic locomotives, and India, with its
extensive system and thousands of locomotives. As locomotive haulage
declines in the rest of the world, British 'bashers' are becoming ever
more adventurous with most countries, even North Korea, regularly
featuring organized visits for enthusiasts. Today, British enthusiasts
are found participating in their hobby all over the world and this book,
featuring over 160 color photographs, summarizes some of the more
popular destinations and locomotives that they travel abroad for.
