Avocet Line
| Avocet Line | |||
|---|---|---|---|
 | |||
 | |||
| Overview | |||
| Status | Open | ||
| Owner | Network Rail | ||
| Locale | Devon | ||
| Termini | |||
| Stations | 11 | ||
| Website | https://www.avocetline.org.uk/ | ||
| Service | |||
| Type | Heavy rail | ||
| System | National Rail | ||
| Operator | Great Western Railway | ||
| Depot | Exeter | ||
| Rolling stock | 150, 158, 165, 166 | ||
| Ridership | 2.629 million (2023) | ||
| History | |||
| Opened | 1861 | ||
| Technical | |||
| Line length | 11+1⁄4 miles (18 km) | ||
| Number of tracks | 1 or 2 | ||
| Character | Commuter | ||
| Track gauge | 4 ft 8+1⁄2 in (1,435 mm) standard gauge | ||
| Loading gauge | RA6 / W6A | ||
| Operating speed | 70 mph (110 km/h) | ||
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The Avocet Line is the railway line in Devon, England connecting Exeter with Exmouth. Originally built as the Exmouth branch railway by the London and South Western Railway, it is now is operated by Great Western Railway.
The line is 11+1⁄4 miles (18 km) long and follows edge of the Exe Estuary for about 4 miles (6 km) between Topsham and Exmouth. The line is named after the pied avocet, a distinctive black and white wading bird that is a seasonal visitor to the estuary.