Return to The End Of The Line

Aim

Support the printing and distribution of a limited number (150) of this photographic sequel as I showcase London courtesy of National Rail

A Perfect Companion

Return to The End Of The Line - London by National Rail

This book continues my photographic travels around London, a journey that began with 'Memories from The End Of The Line.' This time it’s courtesy of the eleven Train Operating Companies that provide commuter services for the millions who rely on the mainline rail network into and out of London.

London’s mainline rail network extends beyond its geographical boundaries, but in keeping with the ‘end of the line’ theme, this time, I’ve defined my journeys in one of two ways. Either travelling to a literal end of the line within the London fare zone or travelling as far as I can using my Freedom Pass within London’s fare zones.

Return to The End Of The Line complements my first book 'Memories' perfectly. This time, it's 220 pages with 56 full-colour and black-and-white photographs, with some double-page spreads, laid out in a limited edition A4 landscape hardback book. The book unfolds with stories, memories and encounters from my having travelled nearly 2,500 rail miles and walked over 200 miles over a two-and-a-half-year period to 56 destinations, from Amersham to West Ruislip.

For the photo enthusiasts, I describe why I've chosen each of the 56 photographs, along with a personal view of the areas I visited. For the railway enthusiasts, there's information about each of the eleven Train Operating Companies, an introduction to each of the 56 stations I arrived at, and a brief history of Britain’s Railways.

For a bit of fun, I've again included a quiz.

Why this book?

London is an eclectic, diverse and vibrant city that screams out its beauty all around. Often it’s not realised, appreciated or applauded as people move around singularly focused on where they want to get to.

This book is for the casual or seasoned London commuter who wants to rekindle a love for their home. For those whose journey starts or ends at any of these 56 stations and who may never give a second thought to their surroundings. And for those who had forgotten the joys of commuting during the pandemic travelling restrictions or who have since abandoned their commute to work from home.

It's for those who enjoy London-based travel stories and those who simply want to dip into London life. Or the curious traveller who loves to roam and rummage for the unusual or out of the ordinary.

And it's for those who like to browse through photography books or even learn a little about London’s travel network and their destinations.

It will appeal to anyone with interests in travel, photography or local history. An ideal present to gift to family and friends as a birthday or Christmas present.

It's an ideal coffee table book, too, rich enough to adorn any waiting area where there are transient visitors or even on your bookshelf to enjoy knowing you have it and then show it to family and friends.

Your Support

Your support will help me print 150 copies of my A4 landscape book showcasing 56 glorious colour and black and white photographs inside its 220 pages. Your generous support will help pay for:

• Printing the book
• The cost value of the rewards
• Postage and packaging 
• Marketing through Crowdfunder
• Editing, Design work  and ISBN registration

Having taken all the photographs and written the content, I was delighted that Jenn Garside has once again been involved in the book's design. Jenn's magical skills transformed the raw material into this fabulous book, matching the look and feel of my first book to create this wonderful companion. 

Who am I?

Hi, I'm Richard Thomas, and since March 2018, I've been masquerading as 'theendoftheline', a London street photographer, weekly blogger, and daily social media contributor. You can follow my blog here.

 Born and bred in Aberystwyth in 1956 and now an East London resident for over 30 years. I'm a passionate Welshman and Liverpool FC supporter, a husband, a father and a grandfather. All of which brings me joy in many ways. I've always travelled with a camera, and my passion for photography started in my early years, inspired by browsing through photographic books.

My inspiration to explore comes from my father, who told me, '...if you don't know something, always ask...' and it's advice I draw on as I delve into parts of London that might otherwise remain hidden.

This project successfully funded on 21st November 2023