The South Devon Railway is on track for another record season by carrying over 110,000 people in the year after its ever popular Santa trains sold out again this week. But there’s still time to see some superb Devon scenery and sample a seasonal mince pie on board one of the railway’s steam trains immediately after Christmas and into the New Year.

Despite the economic gloom and bite of the recession, the pretty seven-mile line has bucked the trend and had carried well over 109,000 people by this weekend. SDR managers are now confident that they’ll break through the 110,000 barrier for the second time in successive years with people enjoying the Christmas break with a scenic ride down the valley of the river Dart from the comfort of a warm steam train.

So, anyone wanting to beat being stuck indoors on the sofa watching television after Christmas Day and Boxing Day can still make merry with a free mince pie on an SDR steam train and sample mulled wine from our bar.

The award-winning line is running ‘Mince Pie’ special steam trains over six days from Wednesday 28th December right through to Monday 2nd January inclusive to welcome the New Year in style. The Mince Pie special trains have plenty of seats available and do not need to be pre-booked.
The trains provide a relaxing trip back in time in railway carriages drawn by a beautifully restored steam engine down the glorious valley of the River Dart with great unimpaired countryside views now that the leaves have fallen, plus occasional glimpses of canoeists battling with the water torrents.

There’s also a well-stocked gift and model railway shop to visit at Buckfastleigh which offers a selection of unusual gifts, including railway books, videos, and plenty for Thomas the Tank Engine enthusiasts. And you can even buy a gift voucher for someone to become a train driver for a day!
As well as the mince pies which are free for passengers, the on train buffet sells hot and cold drinks. There are more substantial snacks available as well at Buckfastleigh Station’s refreshment rooms for hungrier guests. Please note that the gift shop and refreshment rooms will close from Tuesday 3rd to Friday 6th January but are open throughout the rest of the month.

The Mince Pie specials adult round trip fare is £10.00 for adults, £9.50 for seniors and £6.00 for children, with family tickets (two adults plus two children) at £29.80.