As traditional locomotive haulage declined in the UK and many enthusiasts' favourite classes were withdrawn or taken off passenger work, British Rail fans began to broaden their horizons in the 1980s and look at the railway networks of other countries.

For many, their first ports of call were the nearer continental European countries, with Germany proving particularly popular as it still featured locomotive haulage over much of its network, even on the smaller branch lines. Ireland also proved popular as their services were almost exclusively loco-hauled.

As more enthusiasts traveled abroad and information and number lists became more available, foreign rail holidays became ever more popular, with worldwide favorites including the USA, with its long history of diesel traction and iconic locomotives, and India, with its extensive system and thousands of locomotives. As locomotive haulage declines in the rest of the world, British 'bashers' are becoming ever more adventurous with most countries, even North Korea, regularly featuring organised visits for enthusiasts.

Today, British enthusiasts are found participating in their hobby all over the world and this book, featuring over 160 colour photographs, summarises some of the more popular destinations and locomotives that they travel abroad for.