Buckfastleigh Station
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South Devon Railway

4.7
·3k reviews·, United Kingdom

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

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekends

More frequent services

CrowdMedium
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Buckfastleigh Station

South Devon Railway

Best Time

Weekends

More frequent services

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

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

4.7
(3k reviews)

"A great experience which put a smile on my face."

Vertical photo
TIP

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:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Steam Train Journey

Steam Train Journey

Buckfastleigh to Totnes

Experience a nostalgic ride through the picturesque Dart Valley on a beautifully restored steam locomotive.

Buckfastleigh Station

Buckfastleigh Station

Buckfastleigh

Explore the museum, gift shop, and enjoy refreshments at this charming heritage station.

Totnes Station

Totnes Station

Totnes

A historic station offering a glimpse into the past, with easy access to the town of Totnes.

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Planning Your Visit

Book Tickets in Advance

While walk-up tickets are often available, booking online can save time and guarantee your spot, especially during peak season. Check the South Devon Railway website for schedules and special events.

Consider the Weather

Devon's weather can be unpredictable. Pack layers and rain gear, even in summer. A sunny day enhances the scenic valley views, while a misty day adds a dramatic atmosphere to the steam trains.

Best Times

When
Weekends
Why
More frequent services
Crowd
Medium
When
Summer mornings
Why
Best light for photos
Crowd
Medium
When
Off-peak weekdays
Why
Fewer crowds
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

A 50km Wildcamping & Backpacking adventure across Dartmoor National Park! For anyone who’s never been wild camping at Dartmoor National Park, I highly encourage you to get it planned…. I just completed this stunning 50km circular route in a weekend from Friday evening to Sunday evening and honestly it was an experience of a lifetime. The trip I did here was as followed along with some hopefully ...
@tomproutt
68.5K likes • 537.2K views

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:

Such a special sight 😍 Seeing the colourful steam train on the tracks marks the start of Christmas for the locals on the South Devon coast! Visible from many points along the railway line from Paignton to Kingswear - have you seen The Train of Lights chug past? 🚂✨ We are in awe of this footage taken by Sunrider Dones. Thank you for the permission to share, it's just fantastic. 🫶🏽 Tickets for The C...
@dartmouthsteamrr
16.1K likes • 339.1K views
Soaring above the steam train as it glides along the captivating South Devon coast! 🚂💨🌴 ….. #SteamTrainAdventure #SouthDevonCoast #steamtrainsofbritain #train #trains #locomotive #coast #coastal #steamengine  #railway #railways #locomotive #fyp #escapeyoureveryday #fypage #torbay #torquay #paignton #brixham #englishriviera #devon #southdevon #visitdevon #explore #uk #travel 📽️ @ryanstravels_yout...
myriviera
451 likes • 6.7K views

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:

Choo Choo! Full steam ahead at Buckfastleigh on the #southdevonrailway
tessakind
8 likes • 253 views

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

4.7
(3k reviews)

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

Authentic steam train experience
Passionate volunteers
Scenic valley views

What People Dislike

Can be expensive
Limited town signage

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. TikTok

Yes, there is parking available at the Buckfastleigh station. It's generally not too bad, but can get busier during peak times. Reddit

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. Reddit

From London Paddington, the train to Totnes takes approximately 3.5 to 4 hours. From Bristol, it's about 1.5 to 2 hours. Reddit

Totnes town centre is accessible from Totnes station and offers shops and cafes. Buckfast Abbey is also a short distance from the railway. Reddit

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

🎫 🚂 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. Reddit

Both Buckfastleigh and Totnes stations have interesting exhibits, a museum, gift shops, and cafes. Buckfastleigh also has a large cafe. Reddit

Absolutely! The steam train ride is a fantastic experience for all ages. Children often love the sights and sounds of the steam engines. TikTok

Yes, photography is encouraged! The scenic valley views and the historic steam trains make for great photo opportunities. TikTok

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. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

📸 📸 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. TikTok

Yes, capturing the steam trains in action is a highlight for many visitors. Be mindful of other passengers and railway staff. TikTok

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. TikTok

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

The South Devon Railway is a fantastic destination for families. The excitement of the steam trains is a guaranteed hit with children, offering a magical and memorable experience. The journey through the valley provides plenty of visual stimulation, and the stations offer opportunities to explore and learn. TikTok

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. Reddit

❤️ Couples & Romantic Getaways

For a charming and nostalgic outing, the South Devon Railway is ideal for couples. The scenic train ride through the Dart Valley offers a relaxed and romantic atmosphere. Consider booking the Sunday afternoon tea experience for a special treat, featuring delicious sandwiches, scones, and cakes served with attentive service. Reddit

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. Reddit

🚶‍♀️ Solo Travelers & Enthusiasts

Solo travelers and railway enthusiasts will find a lot to appreciate at the South Devon Railway. The opportunity to interact with passionate volunteers offers unique insights into the operation and history of the railway. You can spend time exploring the museum exhibits at your own pace and capture stunning photographs of the steam engines. TikTokReddit

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. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Steam Train Experience

The heart of the South Devon Railway is its heritage steam trains. These beautifully restored locomotives offer a nostalgic journey through the lush Dart Valley, a truly immersive step back in time. The experience is more than just a ride; it's about the sights, sounds, and smells of a bygone era. Visitors often praise the passionate volunteers who maintain and operate the engines, contributing to the authentic atmosphere. Reddit

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. TikTok

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. Reddit

Exploring the Stations

The South Devon Railway boasts two main stations: Buckfastleigh and Totnes. Buckfastleigh Station serves as the primary hub, featuring a museum, a well-stocked gift shop, and a large cafe. It's here that many visitors begin their journey and can explore the history of the railway. The cafe is known for its selection of treats and is a convenient spot for a break. Reddit

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. Reddit

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. Reddit

Dartmoor National Park Connection

While the South Devon Railway itself is in the Dart Valley, it has connections and proximity to Dartmoor National Park. The Dartmoor Line, a separate heritage railway, runs from Okehampton to Meldon, and there are discussions and efforts to extend this line, potentially linking it further to the national park's access points. TikTok

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. TikTok+2

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. TikTok

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