For rail enthusiasts, a trip to the South Devon Railway is a must. This multi award winning railway is one of Devon’s most popular attractions and is the longest steam railway in the whole of the southwest. The railway also offers a great day out for all the family.
The SDR is a seven mile long former railway line of the Great Western Railway and was built in 1872. It runs along the beautiful River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes. You can actually ride the stream train with heritage rolling stock and along the way there are other attractions to visit too. Totnes Rare Breeds Farm, Dartmoor Otters and Buckfast Butterflies are available for visits so there really is something for everyone at this attraction. Don’t let your business website go off the rails. For Web Design Devon, visit http://vuonline.co.uk/web-design/
The South Devon Railway Museum can also be found here in the former goods shed at Buckfastleigh station. The museum has been there for many years but has recently benefited from renovation with improved lighting and accessibility. The museum covers the history of the Ashburton branch from the very early days of the railway in South Devon, the Great Western and British Railways through the ages and the heritage of the Dart Valley and South Devon Railway.
There is an old surviving broad gauge locomotive called Tiny and Ashley who demonstrates how steam engines work for the children. If you’re a keen enthusiast and you would like to experience what it felt like to drive a steam train, you can book an experience where you get to drive a train under the watchful eye of the experienced footplate crew. You can spend a whole day and bring along your friends and family too. This is truly a wonderful event and it won the Gold Award at the Herald Express Tourism and Hospitality Awards in 2015.
For the kids, the railway also offers the opportunity to meet Thomas the Tank Engine. The little ones will get to ride on a steam train and enjoy Thomas themed activities. They will enjoy meeting the fun characters and maybe learn a thing or two about steam engines as well.
The Devonshire Pullman offers the chance to enjoy a steam train ride and some fine dining at the same time. First class travel and a delicious meal made with local Devon produce. The train features carriages from the GWR’s Ocean Liner Express which ran the London to Plymouth route to connect with the transatlantic steamers. Enjoy some 1930’s luxury heritage and dine like they did in the olden days. This could be a great birthday or anniversary treat for a loved one. Black tie is expected and some guests like to dress in tune with the 1930’s era.
The Devonshire Pullman can also be exclusively hired for parties and celebrations or even for unique corporate events. The event can be catered using the dining train and ranges from a finger buffet to full silver service.