Chasing a Rail Icon: My Farewell Journey on the GWR HST from Salisbury to Cornwall
A nostalgic final ride on a Great Western Railway HST from Salisbury to Cornwall – saying farewell to the world’s fastest diesel train as it nears retirement.
As someone who’s always appreciated the rhythm and soul of classic rail travel, the High Speed Train (HST) holds a special place in my heart. With its time in regular Great Western Railway (GWR) service drawing to a close, I knew I had to capture one final ride — this time from Salisbury to Cornwall, chasing a living legend down the West of England main line.
🚄 The Legendary Class 43 HST – A British Rail Engineering Masterpiece
Introduced in the mid-1970s, the InterCity 125, officially classified as the Class 43 HST, was designed to revitalise long-distance rail travel in the UK. It was a revolutionary concept at the time — a fixed-formation train powered by two diesel-electric power cars, sandwiching sleek Mk3 coaches in between.
What made it special?
- World Record Holder: In 1987, an HST set the world record for the fastest diesel-powered train, reaching 148.5 mph (238 km/h) — a record it still holds to this day.
- Innovative Design: The aerodynamic nose, powerful Paxman Valenta engines (later replaced with MTU units), and smooth ride made it an icon of British engineering.
- Longevity: Despite being introduced nearly 50 years ago, many Class 43s remained in front-line service until the late 2010s and even into the 2020s — a testament to their design and durability.
The HST not only revolutionised UK rail travel but also set a benchmark that has been difficult to match in terms of comfort, reliability, and style.
📍 Route Overview: Salisbury → Cornwall
My journey took me west through the picturesque rolling hills of Wiltshire and Devon, across the Tamar Bridge into Cornwall. Along the way:
- Stops included Exeter, Dawlish, Totnes, and Plymouth
- Captured onboard footage, platform scenes, and that unmistakable HST engine note
- Stunning coastal runs and rural countryside — pure railway poetry
🎥 Watch the Full Video
I filmed the entire trip as a personal tribute to this engineering marvel:
▶️ Salisbury → Cornwall | Chasing the Great Western HST
Whether you’re a rail enthusiast, a fan of British Rail nostalgia, or simply curious what makes this train so beloved — this one’s for you.
📸 Highlights from the Journey
Departure from Salisbury under dramatic skies
- The Dawlish sea wall — a favourite of rail photographers
- Atmospheric footage as the train snakes through Devon and Cornwall
- The warm hum of the power car felt through the floor — you just don’t get that anymore
💬 Saying Goodbye to a Legend
The GWR HST was more than just a train — it was an era. One of efficient, stylish, and accessible rail travel. With most HSTs now retired from regular service, this trip was my way of saying goodbye. I’m glad I got to ride it one last time.
🚉 What’s Your HST Memory?
Did you ever ride one of these iconic trains? Maybe on a school trip, a business commute, or a holiday to the West Country?
Drop a comment below — I’d love to hear your stories and what the HST meant to you.
