Hertford Loop Line | |
---|---|
Overview | |
Type | Heavy rail |
System | National Rail |
Status | Operational |
Locale |
Greater London East of England |
Termini |
London Moorgate Stevenage |
Stations | 11 |
Services | 1 |
Operation | |
Opened | 1871—1924 |
Owner | Network Rail |
Operator(s) | Great Northern |
Depot(s) | Hornsey EMUD |
Rolling stock | Class 313 |
Technical | |
Line length | 24 mi (39 km) |
Number of tracks | 2 |
Track gauge | 1,435 mm (4 ft 8 1⁄2 in) standard gauge |
Loading gauge | W9 |
Route availability | RA 7-9 |
Electrification | 25 kV AC OHLE |
Operating speed | Maximum 75 mph (121 km/h) |
The Hertford Line (also known colloquially as the Hertford Loop) is a branch of the East Coast Main Line, providing a commuter route to London for Hertford and other Hertfordshire towns and an occasional diversion route for the main line. The line is part of the Network Rail Strategic Route 8, SRS 08.03 and is classified as a London and South East Commuter line.
Great Northern operates suburban services along the Hertford Line between London King's Cross or Moorgate, and Letchworth, Stevenage, Hitchin or Hertford North. Occasionally, Virgin Trains East Coast, Hull Trains, Grand Central and other faster Great Northern services operate non-stop along the route when diverted off the main section of the East Coast Main Line, due to engineering work. There is a reversing siding to the north of Bowes Park which is occasionally used to reverse Virgin Trains East Coast trains heading for the Bounds Green Depot. There are also bay platforms at Hertford North and Gordon Hill, the latter acting as a terminus during peak hours and night only.