Trainspotting in Manchester

[ColinC]

I'm doing a day trip to Manchester soon, and would like to know whether I need to seek permission or get a pass at either Piccadilly and Victoria. If so, where from? Also, which platform(s) at both stations provide the best viewpoint, especially for photographic purposes?

Thanks in anticipation,
Colin

 

[jfollows]

Yes, see https://www.networkrail.co.uk/commu...sts/guidelines-for-taking-photos-at-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.

Basically if you’re going to hang around with a camera taking pictures they ask that you let them know first.

 

[Spaceship323]

For photos then Stockport is way better than picc, more places to sit, cleaner toilets and the odd freight train as well

 

[Rail Quest]

Unless the procedure has changed, at Piccadilly you need to go through a proper sign-in process at the NR desk (which, in itself, is located in a weird section of the station). It's one of the reasons I avoid spotting at Piccadilly aside from taking a quick video on my phone whilst passing through.

 

[jfollows]

Unless the procedure has changed, at Piccadilly you need to go through a proper sign-in process at the NR desk (which, in itself, is located in a weird section of the station). It's one of the reasons I avoid spotting at Piccadilly aside from taking a quick video on my phone whilst passing through.

Located down the escalator/stairs towards the Metrolink/taxis/Fairfield Street at the mezzanine level I think.

 

[ColinC]

Thanks for your responses, guys. I've registered at a Network Rail station in London previously, so hopefully I won't have to sit through the health and safety videos again!

 

[Bevan Price]

Thanks for your responses, guys. I've registered at a Network Rail station in London previously, so hopefully I won't have to sit through the health and safety videos again!

Most of Manchester Victoria is pretty useless for photography- the through platforms are dark and grim, lying beneath the arena.

 

[ColinC]

Most of Manchester Victoria is pretty useless for photography- the through platforms are dark and grim, lying beneath the arena.

I thought it might be a problem from looking at google maps, though hopefully the eastern end will provide a few opportunities.

 

[pokemonsuper9]

Most of Manchester Victoria is pretty useless for photography- the through platforms are dark and grim, lying beneath the arena.

I thought it might be a problem from looking at google maps, though hopefully the eastern end will provide a few opportunities.

If it's bright, the hole in the roof over the west side of Platform 3/4 can provide a nice amount of light (and also some rain too).
If it's not bright, the lights in the station will be on, and they'll provide a good amount of light.

 

[ColinC]

If it's bright, the hole in the roof over the west side of Platform 3/4 can provide a nice amount of light (and also some rain too).
If it's not bright, the lights in the station will be on, and they'll provide a good amount of light.
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Thanks, that's good to know. Hopefully I'll be able to photograph nearly everything.