Where to find steam trains in Devon – toot toot!
Devon might not be the first place you think of when it comes to hunting for steam trains, but by the end of this guide, we think you’ll be pleasantly surprised about what can be found in our lovely county! Between its intriguing history and the steam trains in Devon that continue to work today, it’s become quite the hub for families, fanatics and far-off travellers to take a peek into the bygone times of steam.
We’re going to uncover all of the best places to see and experience Devon steam trains for yourself.
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The history of steam trains in Devon
Devon’s history with steam trains is a fascinating story of change that started when the Great Western Railway line arrived in the mid-19th century. The engineer Isambard Kingdom Brunel played a leading role in this groundbreaking project, bringing railway transportation to Devon’s countryside.
By establishing important stations like Exeter St David’s in 1844, Devon became connected to the rest of the country in a way it had never been before. The railway had a significant impact, turning our quiet coastal towns into popular tourist destinations.
Although diesel and electric trains replaced steam in the mid-20th century, the romance of steam never truly disappeared from Devon. Today, the county has a lively heritage railway scene that is keeping the spirit of steam alive for future generations.
Where to find Devon steam trains today
When it comes to finding steam trains in Devon, you’re spoilt for choice. So, whether you’re after a carriage ride along the coast, or to experience miniatures, there’s something for every steam train enthusiast.
South Devon Railway
Let’s start with one of our favourites when it comes to steam trains in Devon. Nothing beats jumping aboard and settling into your carriage to take in the scenery.
While travelling along seven miles of the Dart Valley you’ll be in for a real treat. With this classic ride you’ll get a true taste of a vintage steam train journey as you sit back and smell the age-old steam that carries you through the countryside.
Find out more about visiting South Devon Railway and some great things to do in Totnes.
Dartmouth Steam Railway
Another popular steam train journey in Devon is the Dartmouth Steam Railway. With this particular trip you’ll experience both seascapes and riverside views as you set off on a trip through the English Riviera.
If you’re after the full experience, you can combine your train journey into a round-trip, where you can board a river boat and the open top bus along the way too.
Find out more about Dartmouth Steam Railway and things to do in Dartmouth and places to visit in Paignton.
Plym Valley Railway
For an all round day of fun, the Plym Valley Railway offers visitors everything they can hope for when it comes to all things Devon steam trains.
If riding the 1.5 mile route between Marsh Mills and Plym Bridge isn’t enough, there’s also a collection of vintage locomotives and miniature railways models to discover.
Find our more about Plym Valley Railway and even more things to do in Plymouth.
Lynton & Barnstaple Railway
Next on our whistle-stop-tour of steam trains in Devon is the Lynton and Barnstaple Railway.
The narrow gauge railway runs along one mile of the larger route between Woody Bay and Killington Lane Halt – giving you a taste of more to come as volunteers continue to work on reopening more of the route.
Find out more about Lynton & Barnstaple Railway and more things to do near Barnstaple while you’re there.
Devon Railway Centre
Our last stop on the hunt for steam trains in Devon is, of course, the Devon Railway Centre. Here they’ve got steam and diesel locomotives to take you on a journey along the River Exe.
You can also explore the rest of their site where they have a model railway, miniature railways and the classic heritage locomotives so that all enthusiasts big and small can enjoy.
Find out more about days out at Devon Railway Centre and more things to do in Mid Devon.
More places in Devon for train enthusiasts
Still not had your steam train fill? Not to worry, there’s plenty more for train enthusiasts to enjoy outside of riding steam trains in Devon.
Seaton Tramway
Taking a minor detour from one set of tracks to another. The Seaton Tramway is a popular town attraction that tours through the East Devon countryside.
With a traditional vintage tramway and heritage trams, you can get a taste for 1970’s Devon at its finest. Whether you’re journeying for a pub lunch further down the line or just taking in the views, everyone can enjoy a trip down memory lane.
Find out more about Seaton Tramway and more things to do in Seaton.
Trago Mills Steam Railway
All aboard Devon’s longest miniature steam railway based at Trago Mills Leisure Park in Newton Abbot. This small but mighty attraction is open weekends throughout the year and even runs a Christmas special.
Find out more about Trago Mills Steam Railway.
Babbacombe Cliff Railway
A unique experience for the whole family is to take a ride at Babbacombe Cliff Railway. Shuttling holidaymakers and locals to and from Oddicombe Beach, you can take a ride down to the shore, 300ft below.
If you’re visiting in the summertime, pack a beach bag and take a swim in the waters that await.
Find out more about riding Babbacombe Cliff Railway.
Torquay Land Train
A road train to add to the list is the Torquay Land Train. You can take the full Torquay tour which lasts for around 45 minutes and, you can always hop on and off whenever you fancy – leaving no stone unturned.
Just be sure to keep hold of your ticket so you can ride to your heart’s content.
Find out more about riding Torquay Land Train and even more things to do in Torquay.
Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway
If you’re after some picture perfect views to sit alongside a family-fun experience, visiting the Lynton & Lynmouth Cliff Railway is a must.
Take a ride on the funicular to experience the highest, completely water powered railway in the world. It really is a unique experience that you don’t want to miss if you’re on a hunt for steam trains in Devon.
Find out more about this North Devon cliff railway.
Train Play Devon
Here’s one for the tiniest train enthusiasts. Train Play Devon run events around the county where they take over halls and community spaces with their giant tracks complete with electric trains.
Children aged two and over can book a session with their adults who can accompany them for free.
Find out where the next Train Play Devon event is being held on their website.
Where to find steam trains in Devon
Here’s a map of where to find these stations and train attractions around Devon:
Christmas Trains in Devon
You know it’s Christmas when you start seeing The Polar Express advertised on your TV – steam trains have a certain romance about them that really takes on the Christmas spirit.
There are tons of seasonal and Christmas events taking place throughout Devon, so if you’re looking for a magical experience for the full family, you can find all the details in our full guide to Christmas trains.
So whether you fancy a romantic carriage trip along our shores, or want to uncover more on the history of steam trains in Devon, hopefully our guide will help you on your journey.
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Family-friendly things to do across the county, from coast to coast, in the cities, on the moors and whatever the weather.
