The BTP website has this for enthusiasts wanting to take photos on stations, but much of it applies to spotting too:
We welcome rail enthusiasts and passengers who would like to take photos or film at our stations.
The following guidelines are designed to help you to have a safe and enjoyable experience. Please print them out and take them with you when you are at any of
our managed stations.
Before you go on the platform
When you arrive at a station, please let the staff at the Network Rail Reception Desk know that you are there. This will keep station staff informed, so that they can go about their duties without concern about why you are there.
You may require a platform ticket to access platforms.
On the platform
Act safely and sensibly at all times. Stay clear of the platform edge and stay behind the yellow lines where they are provided.
Be aware of your surroundings.
Do not:
- trespass on to the tracks or any other part of the railway that is not available to passengers
- climb on any structure or interfere with platform equipment
- obstruct any signalling equipment or signs which are vital to the safe running of the railway
- wear anything which is similar in colour to safety clothing, such as high-visibility jackets, as this could cause confusion to drivers and other railway employees
- gather together in groups at busy areas of the platform (eg customer information points, departure screens, waiting areas, seating etc.) or where this may interfere with the duties of station staff or passengers boarding trains or moving around the station.
Please try to avoid peak hours: Monday to Friday 6:00 – 10:30 and 15:30 – 19:30.
Photography and film at stations
You can take photographs at stations provided you do not sell them on to a company or stock image agency. That is considered commercial photography.
If you are filming for quite a while or might be using bulky equipment you should let our station staff know so that the reasons for your filming are clear.
Remember:
- You are not allowed to take photographs of security related equipment, such as CCTV cameras.
- Flash photography is not allowed at any time. It can distract train drivers and train dispatch staff and so is potentially very dangerous.
- Tripods should be avoided where possible. If you need to use a tripod you must speak to our station staff to ensure you are in a safe area.
- Please respect the fact that some people may not want to be photographed.
General
Train companies must put the safety of their passengers and staff first.
You may occasionally be asked by station staff to move to another part of the station or to leave the station altogether. Station staff should be happy to explain why this is necessary.
If you are travelling by train, they may ask you to remain in the normal waiting areas with other passengers. If this occurs, please follow their instructions with goodwill as staff have many things to consider, including the safety and security of all passengers, and are authorised to use judgement in this regard.
Report anything suspicious at the station
If you see anything suspicious or notice any unusual behaviour or activities, please tell a member of staff immediately. Your presence at a station can be very helpful to us as extra “eyes and ears” and can have a positive security benefit.
For emergencies and serious incidents, call:
- The British Transport Police on 0800 40 50 40
- The Police on 999.
Railway By-laws
Britain’s Railway By-laws cover trains, track and stations across the country. Thousands of trains use as many stations throughout the day and night. To ensure ease of travel and safety on the railway system, including passengers, staff, property and equipment, the by-laws need to be observed by everyone.
