The most iconic feature of The Polar Express is its sleek black steam engine. It’s even inscribed with the ‘1225’…
The multi-award winning South Devon Railway is one of Devon’s and the West Country’s best loved tourist attractions and is the longest established steam railway in the south west.
The SDR runs along the former Great Western Railway branch line that was built in 1872. It runs for seven miles along the beautiful valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes with the backdrop of the glorious Devon hills. We run steam trains with heritage rolling stock and offer a wonderful all day, all weather attraction for families and people of all ages. Sit and enjoy the scenery as you get taken back to the golden days of travel between the 1930s and 1960s.
Ride the South Devon Railway and, while you are with us, you can visit the Totnes Rare Breeds Farm and Dartmoor Otters & Buckfast Butterflies. Keep an eye on our website where you can find details of special services including Drive a Train – South Devon Railway or Murder Mystery Experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where does the South Devon Railway start and finish?
The SDR runs along the stunning valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes. It is seven miles long and was formerly part of the Great Western Railway branch line.
How long is the journey on the South Devon Railway?
The ride on the South Devon Railway is a 14 mile round trip on the old branch line of the Great Western Railway. The GWR steam engines haul trains full of their passengers of all ages between Buckfastleigh and Totnes Riverside stations.
Is the South Devon Railway dog friendly?
Well behaved dogs are welcome across the railway but they are not permitted within Dartmoor Otters and Buckfast Butterflies Centre or the Totnes Rare Breeds Farm.
Where can I find a timetable?
Trains operate daily between 25th March and 29th October. To find out more, visit our website HERE.
How accessible is it?
Customers who are registered disabled and their carers can purchase discounted tickets from our Booking Offices on the day. There is limited wheelchair space in a dedicated carriage on our trains. Buckfastleigh and Totnes stations have accessible toilets.
Can I buy food and drink?
Most of our trains operate a Buffet Car, providing hot and cold drinks, beer, cider, snacks, cream teas and pasties.
During weekends and holidays our ice cream kiosk is open at Buckfastleigh, offering drinks, pasties and local ice cream.
There is also a café, Birdie’s Kitchen, at the station at Buckfastleigh serving a variety of hot and cold food, snacks and drinks.
Other than a train ride, what else can I do?
At Buckfastleigh we have 14 acres of grounds to explore, including a riverside walk, gardens and children’s play area. There is a museum on the station platform that contains many historic artifacts, including Tiny, the only surviving engine of Brunel’s Broad Gauge. There is an extensive gift and model shop with detailed model railway too!
Staverton station is a great starting point for rural walks beside the River Dart and to the Sea Trout Inn.
Our Station at Totnes Riverside is a 20 minute walk from the historic town centre, where there are many artisan shops and cafes. On our Peak timetable days in the summer we operate a vintage bus between Totnes Mainline station and the town centre.
How much are fares and tickets to South Devon Railway?
Full round trip tickets start from £19 for Adults and £13 for Children. Concession, Single and All-Day Tickets available.
Visit our website HERE to find out more.
