We are kicking off the start of our main daily running season with a bargain Spring ‘half fare’ weekend next Saturday and Sunday (21st & 22nd March) as part of ‘English Tourism Week’ to show that we’re truly open for business again right through to the end of October 2015.

Passengers will be able to cast off the recent cold and wet winter blues and step out to bask in a cut-price steam feast redolent of the Golden Age of Steam! There are no fewer than nine departures on both days from Buckfastleigh to Totnes, so you’ll never have to wait too long for a train.

Countryside lovers will be able to see and enjoy some stunning spring scenery from the comfort of the trains as they meander their leisurely way down one of Devon’s most glorious valleys by the River Dart which is now carpeted with beautiful daffodils and primroses, and walkers can take advantage of some relaxing walks and see the flowers from stations too.

Fares on both days will be at half-price for adults and children (aged 3-15) with under threes and SDRA members going free.

The first train leaves from Buckfastleigh at 10.00am and from Totnes (Littlehempston) at 10.45am. Trains will leave both stations at about 45 minute intervals on both days.

Services should comprise a Great Western era train with chocolate and cream coaches and a set of 1950s style BR crimson and cream coaches with trains hauled by GWR Collet 0-6-0 ‘2251’ class NO 3205; or newly overhauled GWR 0-6-0PT 64xx NO 6412, or London Transport liveried GWR 0-6-0PT NO L.92 (5786).
 

The Heritage ‘Bus Service is running this weekend

The SDR's LT Routemaster RM1872

Heritage Bus Service

The service will be Buckfastleigh Station, Buckfast Abbey, Ashburton and Buckfastleigh Station.
Buckfastleigh Station (Dep.)		11.35	1.10	2.10	3.10
Buckfast Abbey (Arr.)		11.40	1.15	2.15	3.15
Ashburton Town Centre (Bull Ring)		11.50	1.25	2.25	3.25
Buckfastleigh (Valiant Soldier)		12. 0	1.35	2.35	3.35
Buckfastleigh Station (Arr.)		12. 5	1.40	2.40	3.40
Additional services may be run as required. Details of services are displayed on 'bus stops

To download a copy of the published timetable flyer click here.

Volunteer workers are always being sought to help with the running of the railway and the South Devon Railway Association is holding a start-of-season recruitment drive over the weekend too. So, if anyone is interested in getting their hands dirty and helping us to keep the railway’s wheels turning, then they can just turn up and talk to some of the volunteers already helping run the SDR who can happily explain all of the jobs on offer and what’s involved.

With ample car parking at Buckfastleigh on the A38 Devon Expressway, the South Devon Railway is just 25 minutes from Plymouth, Exeter and Torbay.

The South Devon Railway also features an extensive range of products in the Expressway model railway and gift shop, and quality food and drink in its ‘Refreshment Rooms’

The South Devon Railway will be running trains EVERY day from Saturday 22nd March until November 1st. The Expressway model railway shop has gifts for children of all ages and is open for business on most days along with the Refreshment Rooms.