
South Devon Railway
A heritage steam railway offering nostalgic journeys through the picturesque Dart Valley, complete with museums and charming stations.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
More frequent services

South Devon Railway
Best Time
More frequent services

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A heritage steam railway offering nostalgic journeys through the picturesque Dart Valley, complete with museums and charming stations.
"A great experience which put a smile on my face."

Card Payments Only
The cafe and shop are card only. Bring your card for treats and souvenirs! :credit_card:
Volunteer Passion
Staff are passionate volunteers. Be sure to thank them for their hard work! :heart:

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Steam Train Journey
Buckfastleigh to Totnes
Experience a nostalgic ride through the picturesque Dart Valley on a beautifully restored steam locomotive.
Buckfastleigh Station
Buckfastleigh
Explore the museum, gift shop, and enjoy refreshments at this charming heritage station.

Totnes Station
Totnes
A historic station offering a glimpse into the past, with easy access to the town of Totnes.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Tickets in Advance
Consider the Weather
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Card Payments Only
The cafe and shop are card only. Bring your card for treats and souvenirs! :credit_card:
Volunteer Passion
Staff are passionate volunteers. Be sure to thank them for their hard work! :heart:
Dog-Friendly Option
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the train for an extra fee. :dog:
Scenic Valley Views
Enjoy the beautiful Dart Valley scenery from your carriage window. :camerawithflash:
Tips
from all over the internet
Card Payments Only
The cafe and shop are card only. Bring your card for treats and souvenirs! :credit_card:
Volunteer Passion
Staff are passionate volunteers. Be sure to thank them for their hard work! :heart:
Dog-Friendly Option
Well-behaved dogs are welcome on the train for an extra fee. :dog:
Scenic Valley Views
Enjoy the beautiful Dart Valley scenery from your carriage window. :camerawithflash:
Check Special Events
Look out for themed events like the 'Train of Lights' during Christmas! :christmas_tree:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the South Devon Railway for its authentic steam train experience and the dedication of its volunteers. The scenic journey through the Dart Valley is a highlight, offering a nostalgic trip back in time. While some find it a bit pricey, the quality of the afternoon tea and the overall charm make it a worthwhile day out for many.
"A wonderful place to visit if you like Steam Trains. A pleasant ride and experience. We did not book and there was plenty of seats as there were several carriages.
The museum has plenty of exhibits to look at. The shop is big and they have a large cafe. Great selection of tasty treats though note it's card only.
Parking was not too bad."
Abi Stevens
"Lovely day out on this heritage railway with views along the Dart Valley. Interesting exhibits at all 3 stations and a nice cafe and gift shop at Buckfastleigh. All the volunteers had smiles on their faces and clearly enjoyed what they were doing. Not a criticism but a suggestion, there was little or no signage at Buckfastleigh to direct you to the town centre If anyone wanted to go there. However on the Monday we visited, everywhere except one pub was closed."
Eric Phillips
"Excellent all the way ! We enjoyed the Sunday afternoon tea experience ....fantastic quality .
Great selection of finger sandwiches and savouries , freshly baked scones, and cakes. The staff were very attentive and friendly but not intrusive.
The steam train experience is lovely as always . 10/10"
Susanne Degnan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The main station is in Buckfastleigh, easily accessible by car via the A38. For train travelers, the nearest main line station is Totnes, from where you can take a bus or taxi to Buckfastleigh. Some visitors also use the Dartmoor Line to reach Princetown, which is near Dartmoor National Park, and then travel south.
Yes, there is parking available at the Buckfastleigh station. It's generally not too bad, but can get busier during peak times.
Yes, it's possible to visit without a car. You can arrive by train to Totnes and then take a local bus or taxi to Buckfastleigh.
From London Paddington, the train to Totnes takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. From Bristol, it's about 1.5 to 2 hours.
Totnes town centre is accessible from Totnes station and offers shops and cafes. Buckfast Abbey is also a short distance from the railway.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Ticket prices vary depending on the option chosen. A standard return ticket for adults is around £25, which includes stops at both stations. There are cheaper options if you don't wish to alight at the stations. Dogs incur an additional fee.
Yes, you can buy tickets on the day at the kiosk, but booking online in advance is recommended, especially during busy periods, to guarantee your seat.
The railway typically offers concessions for seniors and children. Check their official website for the most up-to-date pricing and discount information.
Opening hours vary seasonally and by day. It's essential to check the South Devon Railway's official website for the current operating schedule before your visit.
While you can often purchase tickets on the day, booking a specific train time in advance is advisable to avoid disappointment, especially for popular services or special events.
🎫 🚂 Onsite Experience
The train journey itself is approximately 40 minutes each way between Buckfastleigh and Totnes. The total experience, including time at stations, can take several hours.
Both Buckfastleigh and Totnes stations have interesting exhibits, a museum, gift shops, and cafes. Buckfastleigh also has a large cafe.
Absolutely! The steam train ride is a fantastic experience for all ages. Children often love the sights and sounds of the steam engines.
Yes, photography is encouraged! The scenic valley views and the historic steam trains make for great photo opportunities.
There are cafes at both main stations offering a selection of treats, sandwiches, and drinks. The Sunday afternoon tea experience is highly recommended for its quality.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
You can find a selection of tasty treats, sandwiches, and drinks at the cafes located at Buckfastleigh and Totnes stations. The Sunday afternoon tea is a popular choice.
While specific options can vary, cafes typically offer a range of choices. It's best to inquire directly at the cafe upon arrival for the most current offerings.
Picnics are generally permitted, but it's always a good idea to check the railway's specific policy on bringing outside food and drinks.
The cafe at Buckfastleigh station is noted for its large size and selection of tasty treats.
The Sunday afternoon tea experience is described as fantastic quality, with a great selection of finger sandwiches, freshly baked scones, and cakes, served by attentive staff.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire journey offers scenic views of the Dart Valley. Buckfastleigh and Totnes stations, with their vintage architecture and steam engines, are also prime photography locations.
Yes, capturing the steam trains in action is a highlight for many visitors. Be mindful of other passengers and railway staff.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or drone usage may require special permission. Always check with station staff if unsure.
Morning light often provides the best conditions for clear, well-lit photographs of the trains and the surrounding landscape.
While you can get close to the engines at the stations, always maintain a safe distance and follow any instructions from railway staff for your safety.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a family ticket for better value. The cafes at the stations offer kid-friendly snacks and meals. Remember to bring a stroller or carrier if you have very young children, as navigating stations and trains with little ones requires some planning. The volunteers are generally very welcoming to families and happy to answer questions.
❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways
Combine your visit with a stroll through the historic town of Totnes, accessible from the Totnes station. The gentle pace of the railway journey allows for conversation and shared enjoyment of the picturesque surroundings. It's a perfect day trip for those seeking a touch of vintage charm.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Enthusiasts
Consider purchasing a ticket that allows you to alight at stations to explore the surrounding areas or simply enjoy the journey multiple times. The less crowded weekday services can be particularly appealing for those who prefer a more solitary experience.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Steam Train Experience
The route runs between Buckfastleigh and Totnes, offering picturesque views of the countryside. The journey is about 40 minutes each way, allowing ample time to soak in the scenery. Special events, like the 'Train of Lights' during Christmas, add an extra layer of magic to the experience, making it a popular choice for families and railway enthusiasts alike.
While the ride is a highlight, remember that the railway is a living museum. Take time to explore the stations, which often feature exhibits detailing the history of the line and the locomotives. This adds educational value to the fun, making it a well-rounded day out for all ages.
Exploring the Stations
Totnes Station offers a different charm, providing a gateway to the historic market town of Totnes. While perhaps less of a focal point for railway exhibits than Buckfastleigh, it's a functional and atmospheric stop. Visitors can alight here to explore Totnes, known for its independent shops and castle.
Both stations are staffed by dedicated volunteers who are often happy to share their knowledge and passion for the railway. Their friendly demeanor significantly enhances the visitor experience, making it feel like a true community effort.
Dartmoor National Park Connection
Visitors interested in exploring Dartmoor can use the railway network to reach areas closer to the park. For instance, reaching Princetown via the Dartmoor Line provides access to the heart of Dartmoor, where activities like wild camping and hiking are popular.
This connection means that a trip to the South Devon Railway can be combined with an exploration of Dartmoor's rugged landscapes, offering a diverse experience of Devon's natural beauty and heritage transport. It's a great way to see different facets of the region, from the scenic valleys to the wild moors.
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