The Rails Through North Kerry: Limerick to Tralee and Branches

2016 | Transportation

A scenic, pictorial journey along the meandering railway route known as the 'North Kerry' line which carried traffic between Limerick City and Tralee through beautiful countryside. Illustrating the twilight years of these lines from 1955 onwards, it depicts scenes rarely covered by enthusiasts and provides a picture of an interesting, but hitherto sparsely documented network.In addition to the main route, and using primarily colour photography, the book also explores the adjacent branch lines of: Limerick to Castlemungret; The Croom Branch, Patrickswell to Charleville; Ballingrane to Foynes; Tralee to Fenit Pier; and Gortatlea to Castleisland.There are photographs from a number of contributors, but mainly Barry Carse's own extensive collection. Goods traffic thrived through the 1950s and on into the 1970s as the regular passenger trains breathed their last. Images of the special passenger trains for events like Listowel Races, Knock Pilgrimages, and GAA events are also included.Today, parts of the route have found a new lease of life - many of the stations have been put to use as private residences and the highly successful Great Southern Trail has brought cyclists, hikers and tourists into this beautiful area.

Jonathan Beaumont (Author)

Barry Carse (Author)