On many UK platform end ramps there are black spike pads,what are they for?They look like some kind of midevil deathtrap,Are they leftovers form a bi'gone era of the UK's railroading past?
The spikes aren't but the ramps often are. Most stations had platforms with porters ramps to allow trolleys and similar to be moved between them. This practice isn't really used so much now so, as Tonto says, the spike pads (and adjacent railings) have been added to stop passengers wandering down to track level. I suppose the pad gap is to allow access to rail workers if needed. Most new platforms are now built with flat ends and no ramps, so no spikes required.
Also, in the days when passengers were allowed to open their own doors, latecomers would often chase after a departing train in an attempt to catch it. The ramps ensured they wouldn't fall off the end of the platform. Not necessary now as all train doors are locked before departure.
