The Cotswold Line, running from Oxford to Hereford, would indeed make for an interesting addition to Train Sim World 3. It is a scenic railway route that passes through the beautiful Cotswolds region in England. Why the Cotswold Line: Below are reasons why i believe the cotswold line should be implemented Oxford: The starting point of the route, Oxford is a historic city known for its prestigious university. The simulation could include the iconic Oxford station and surrounding landmarks. Rolling Hills and Countryside: As the train leaves Oxford, it enters the picturesque Cotswolds, characterized by its rolling hills, charming villages, and scenic countryside. The simulation could capture the unique landscapes and rural atmosphere of the area. Stations: The route features several intermediate stations, including Hanborough, Charlbury, Kingham, Moreton-in-Marsh, and Evesham, among others. Each station could be accurately recreated, with detailed platforms, buildings, and surrounding environments. Cotswold Villages: The Cotswolds is renowned for its quaint villages with honey-colored stone cottages. The simulation could include some of these picturesque villages, such as Charlbury, Moreton-in-Marsh, and Evesham, giving players a chance to experience the charm and character of these locations. Worcester and Hereford: The route terminates at Hereford, but it could also include the extension to Worcester. Worcester is a historic city with a beautiful cathedral, while Hereford is known for its cathedral and the famous Mappa Mundi. Train Operations: The simulation could provide a realistic experience of operating trains on the Cotswold Line, with accurate train models, signaling systems, and realistic timetables. It could include both passenger and freight services, reflecting the actual operations on the line. Scenic Highlights: The Cotswold Line offers several scenic highlights, such as the view of the Oxfordshire and Worcestershire countryside, the Malvern Hills, and the River Avon. These landmarks could be incorporated to enhance the immersion and visual appeal of the simulation. Including the Cotswold Line in Train Sim World 3 would provide players with an opportunity to explore a charming and visually stunning railway route in England, offering a mix of rural scenery, historic towns, and cultural landmarks History of the Line Early Origins: The railway line was originally planned as part of the Great Western Railway (GWR) network in the mid-19th century. The GWR aimed to connect Oxford with the industrial Midlands and the West of England. Construction and Opening: Construction of the line began in the 1850s, and the first section between Oxford and Wolvercot Junction opened on May 12, 1851. Over the years, the line was extended further west, reaching Worcester in 1860 and Hereford in 1861. Expansion and Growth: The Cotswold Line played a crucial role in the transportation of goods and passengers in the region. It facilitated the movement of agricultural produce, particularly from the fertile Vale of Evesham, as well as various industrial goods from the Midlands. World War II and Post-War Challenges: During World War II, the Cotswold Line served as an important transport route for military purposes. However, like many other railways in the UK, it faced challenges in the post-war period due to declining passenger numbers and competition from road transport. Modernization and Electrification: In the 1960s, the line underwent modernization, including the introduction of diesel-powered trains to replace steam locomotives. The line remained predominantly diesel-operated, and electrification did not extend to the Cotswold Line. Preservation and Heritage: In recent decades, there has been a resurgence of interest in heritage railways and the preservation of historic rail lines. The Cotswold Line has gained recognition for its scenic beauty and historical significance, attracting tourists and railway enthusiasts. Current Operations: Today, the Cotswold Line is an important railway route for both passenger and freight services. It is operated by Great Western Railway (GWR) and provides a vital connection between Oxford, Worcester, and Hereford. The line offers regular passenger services, serving both local commuters and tourists visiting the Cotswolds. Stations on the line 1. Oxford: Located in the city of Oxford, this station serves as the eastern terminus of the Cotswold Line. It is a major interchange and one of the busiest stations in the region. 2. Hanborough: Situated in Long Hanborough, Oxfordshire, this station serves the surrounding rural area and provides access to Blenheim Palace, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Combe: Located between Hanborough and Charlbury, Combe is a request stop that serves the small village of Combe in Oxfordshire. It provides a convenient transportation option for residents in the area. Finstock: Situated in Finstock, Oxfordshire, this station serves the village and the surrounding rural area. It is a small station with basic facilities. Charlbury: Located in Charlbury, Oxfordshire, this station serves the town and nearby villages. It is known for its picturesque setting in the Cotswolds. Ascott-under-Wychwood: This small station serves the village of Ascott-under-Wychwood in Oxfordshire. Shipton: Situated in Shipton-under-Wychwood, Oxfordshire, this station serves the village and surrounding rural area. Kingham: Located in Kingham, Oxfordshire, this station serves the village and is often considered the gateway to the Cotswolds. It is known for its distinctive architecture. Moreton-in-Marsh: Situated in Moreton-in-Marsh, Gloucestershire, this station serves the town and is an important hub for the Cotswolds. It is a historic market town with several attractions nearby. Honeybourne: This station is located in Honeybourne, Worcestershire, and serves the surrounding rural area. Evesham: Situated in Evesham, Worcestershire, this station serves the town and provides access to the picturesque Vale of Evesham. Pershore: Located in Pershore, Worcestershire, this station serves the town and surrounding rural communities. Worcestershire Parkway: Worcestershire Parkway is situated in Norton, just outside Worcester. It is strategically located at the intersection of the Cotswold Line (Oxford to Hereford) and the Cross Country Route, which connects Birmingham with the southwest of England. Worcester Shrub Hill: Situated in Worcester, Worcestershire, this station is one of the main railway hubs in the region. It connects the Cotswold Line with other major rail routes. Worcester Foregate Street: Also located in Worcester, this station serves the city center and provides another interchange point for passengers. Malvern Link: Situated in Malvern Link, Worcestershire, this station serves the town and the nearby Malvern Hills. Great Malvern: Located in Great Malvern, Worcestershire, this station is the terminus of the Cotswold Line. It serves the town and provides access to the Malvern Hills. Colewall: Colewall Railway Station is a railway station on the Cotswold Line serving the village of Collwall in Herefordshire, England. The station has one platform with seating. Ledbury: Ledbury railway station is a train station located in Ledbury, Herefordshire, England. It serves the town of Ledbury and the surrounding areas. The station is situated on the Cotswold Line, which runs between Hereford and Oxford. Hereford: Hereford Station is a train station located in Hereford, Herefordshire, England. It is the primary railway station serving the city of Hereford and the surrounding areas. The station is situated on the Welsh Marches Line, which runs between Newport in Wales and Shrewsbury in England, and is the Western Terminus of the cotswold line All together the route mileage comes up to 86 miles. Trains The Hitachi Class 800 Intercity Express Train The Class 166 Turbostars Class 172/173 Turbostars Class 170 Turbostars Final Thoughts: This is a good route for Train sim world 3 as it is very scenic and grants access to more layers and trains for future routes. It is a very picturesque and scenic route and would follow the LAMP algorithm when it comes to route creation. From the Malvern Hills to the World Heritage Site at Hanborough, this route has a variation of higher speed runs and local stoppers, giving the route more life and depth
