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Train Simulator: Portsmouth Direct Line

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The Portsmouth Direct Line for Train Simulator Classic was released in 2012 and developed by RailSimulator.com, later known as Dovetail Games. This add-on recreated the busy and varied route between Woking and Portsmouth Harbour, an important railway artery in southern England. At around 49 miles in length, it offered players a substantial drive, mixing suburban commuter services, scenic countryside running, and the coastal approaches into Portsmouth. At the time of release, it was considered one of the more ambitious UK route add-ons, combining authentic railway operations with carefully modelled stations and landmarks.

The route included key stops such as Guildford, Haslemere, Petersfield, Havant, and Portsmouth and Southsea before reaching the terminus at Portsmouth Harbour. Its gradients and curves added driving challenges, reflecting the real-world line’s reputation for requiring skill and concentration from drivers. A variety of services could be recreated, from fast regional runs to frequent commuter operations, giving the line strong replay value. The balance of detailed urban settings, rolling hills, and coastal stretches helped make the route distinctive within the simulator’s growing portfolio.

Included with the DLC was the BR Class 450 Desiro EMU, a modern electric unit widely used on the line at the time. This train was accurately represented with authentic performance, cab features, and sounds, making it a highlight for players. A set of scenarios accompanied the add-on, placing drivers in a range of situations that reflected the operational patterns of the real-life route. These elements made the Portsmouth Direct Line a self-contained package that worked both as an entry point for new players and as an expansion for experienced users.

Reception on release was positive, with the add-on praised for its atmosphere, realism, and varied driving experience. The attention to station detail and the inclusion of the Class 450 made it feel complete, while the length and driving challenges gave enthusiasts plenty to engage with. Though its graphics showed the limitations of the simulator engine at the time, the route captured the feel of Southern England rail travel and became one of the earlier flagship British releases for Train Simulator Classic.

Key Points:

  • Released in 2012 by RailSimulator.com (later Dovetail Games)

  • Covers approximately 49 miles from Woking to Portsmouth Harbour

  • Features key stations including Guildford, Haslemere, and Petersfield

  • Bundled with the BR Class 450 Desiro EMU as included stock

  • Supplied with a range of scenarios reflecting real-world services

  • Well received for realism, challenge, and atmosphere despite engine limits

 

Train Simulator: Portsmouth Direct Line manual

Clickable image to download/view the Portsmouth Direct Line manual
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Included DLC

When buying this product, the package also includes the following DLC along with the RSDL Railworks 3 LegacyAssetsFoliage Pack.

Portsmouth Direct Line Route Map

The map below represents a basic overview of the Portsmouth Direct Line route. To view and download a full sized copy of this map, click here.

Image showing a map of the Portsmouth Direct Line route

Portsmouth Direct Line Class 450 Destination List

The following are the destination codes for the Class 450 EMU included with the Portsmouth Direct Line route. Example : 45012063703A where A is for London Waterloo via Guildford.

Image showing the Portsmouth Direct Line Class 450 destination list.

Portsmouth Live Webcam

This camera has an overview of Ryde Esplanade, featuring Ryde Pier, Hovercraft landing, bus interchange and distant shipping in the Solent near Portsmouth.