Abstract: A rail fastening system (10) comprises a base plate (12) configured to sit on a support (14) and having a first recess 16 for receiving a length of a rail (18). The system (10) also includes a plurality of spring clips (20i) and (20t) arranged to clamp the base plate (12) between the rail (18) and the support (14); and in doing so fasten the rail (18) to the support (14). A resilient rail pad (21) may be placed in the recess (16) prior to the recess receiving the rail (18), so that the rail (18) sits on top of the rail pad (21). The plate (12) is not secured to the support before application of the clips. The clips are applied by pushing them over the base plate in direction perpendicular to the extent of the rail.