About SpotLog

SpotLog is an app for smartphones and a database of train numbers written and created by railway enthusiasts for railway enthusiasts.

SpotLog App

The SpotLog App was created for train spotters to record train numbers.  The app has three main sections: the notebook, the book and the log.

The Notebook is the screen for entering train sightings: it is designed to make entering numbers as quick and easy as possible with a numeric keypad laid out for quickly entering train numbers.  Numbers are entered and time and date automatically recorded.  Additional information such as location and notes can also be added.  SpotLog processes numbers entered in the background so as not to interfere with entering the next number as quickly as possible.  SpotLog recognises items by the main number, any alternative numbers (eg former numbers) and for units by the numbers of individual cars as well as the main unit number.  For European trains, SpotLog handles the UIC check digit.

SpotLog processes numbers by matching them against numbers in the app's book database, matched numbers are automatically recorded against the relevant book entry and added to the log.

The Book section is a database of train numbers, different datasets can be downloaded from the LocoList database and the book section allows the user to browse the data by class.  Class information includes technical details and photographs, and detail for each locomotive or unit may include livery, alternative numbers, formation and depot allocation etc.  Loco's seen are marked as seen in the book, and the book shows totals seen for each class etc.

The Log section of the app provides a log of trains seen.

SpotLog is available on Android smartphones and tablets, iPhone and iPad.

LocoList Database

The LocoList database is a database of train numbers and details.  The database is divided into sets and more than 40 datasets are available covering UK and some other European countries.  Data is added and maintained by the app's users and is regularly updated.  

UK datasets include:

  • Mainline UK
  • UK coaching stock
  • UK preserved trains
  • Departmental units
  • Trams and metros
  • Transport for London

Corrections or additions to the data are welcomed.

Further Information

Contact:  Mark@SpotLog.org