Long-winded freight routes

[BRX]

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/H38058/2019/04/23/advanced

It always strikes me that this path, from Tonbridge to Grain, is rather long-winded. As the crow flies, it's only about 30 miles, but the train travels right into London, through Clapham Junction and out again, taking over 4 hours.

I'm sure there are good reasons for this. But using the crow-flies distance that works out at about 7mph on average. A marathon runner could do the distance in about half the time!

I'm sure there are more extreme examples.

Most long-winded route in the UK?

 

[Suraggu]

Perhaps it's to turn the set?

 

[cactustwirly]

Perhaps it's to turn the set?

Nope, more likely pathing issues along the Medway valley line/Stroof area?

 

[Ianno87]

Some of the Liverpool - Drax biomass paths are pretty 'creative'

http://www.realtimetrains.co.uk/train/H31819/2019/05/07/advanced

Basically trying to thread around the various intensive trans-pennine passenger services!

 

[david737]

With regards to 6K40 Tonbridge to Grain I was told that it was pathing issues but last week it did run via Grove Park, Lee spur & Dartford and also the reason for not going via the Medway Valley means it would be facing the wrong way at Hoo Jct to access the Grain branch.

 

[Llama]

The loaded Drax trains also avoid climbing Miles Platting bank by that route.

 

[Suraggu]

The loaded Drax trains also avoid climbing Miles Platting bank by that route.

They regularly are coming in at around 2250 tonnes so wise decision.