Pullman Car No. 246 ‘Lydia’
History
Completed in 1925 by the Midland Railway Carriage & Wagon Company (constructed in 1924), ‘Lydia’ was exported across the English Channel to operate Orient Express services between Milan, San Remo, Nice and Cannes. In 1929 the carriage returned to Britain and ran from London to Dover, the Midlands and the North. As the carriage was a favourite of Prime Minister Winston Churchill, ‘Lydia’ was reserved for his use during World War II (Winston Churchill and General Eisenhower used the carriage in the lead-up to D-Day in 1944), and was even used for his state funeral in 1965.
The carriage was gifted to the National Railroad Museum in America, and it made the journey across the Atlantic in 1969 for a tour that would last four years. ‘Lydia’ was repatriated in 2000 and arrived at Newport Docks in November that year.
In 2024 ‘Lydia’ was brought to South Devon Railway for restoration. After over 50 years out of public use, Lydia is recommissioned and carrying passengers again. You can journey back to the elegance of the 1920s and the world of opulent train travel aboard ‘Lydia’ at South Devon Railway.
Pullman Ploughman’s Lunch
Soak in the history and watch the countryside glide by as you enjoy a delicious dining experience whilst travelling in prestigious Pullman Class. With premier service, a heritage, luxurious setting, and outstanding Dart Valley backdrop, this is where memories are made.
Join us for a wonderful Prosecco Ploughman’s Lunch served at your seat on the 12.10 train from Buckfastleigh. You will be travelling in Pullman Car ‘Lydia’, built in 1925. The train will return at 13.30 and the experience will end at 14.00.
When you board you will receive a complimentary Prosecco or Elderflower Presse. The finest homemade treats and local produce, some of which has been sourced from the Dart Valley, will be served in the vintage setting of our 1925 Pullman Car. A freshly made desert will finish off your culinary journey.
The Experience lasts for up to two hours and is the ideal way to indulge in traditional West Country delicacies whilst enjoying the beautiful Devon scenery.
Drinks are available to purchase from the at-seat bar service.
Please note that we are unable to provide Ploughman’s Lunch for Gluten Free or Vegan diets.
Ploughman’s Vegetarian Lunch Menu
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Pullman Afternoon Tea
A traditional Prosecco Afternoon Tea will be served at your seat aboard Pullman Car ‘Lydia’ on the 15.45 train from Buckfastleigh. The train will return at 17.00 and the experience will end at 17.15.
You will be welcomed with a complimentary glass of Prosecco or Elderflower Presse. A selection of sandwiches, savories and cakes are made using fresh local ingredients. Certain special dietary requirements can be catered for if specified at the time of booking.
The Experience lasts for one and a half hours and is the ideal way to indulge in traditional West Country delicacies whilst enjoying the beautiful Devon scenery.
Additional drinks are available to purchase from the at-seat bar service.
Please note that we are unable to cater for individuals who have a Gluten Free as well as a Vegan diet.
(Vegan | Vegetarian | Gluten Free)
Book Pullman Afternoon TeaPrivate Hire
Pullman Car No. 246 ‘Lydia’ embodies heritage to the hilt, not only having been part of the Pullman ‘family’ but also with a wartime pedigree and being a favourite carriage of Winston Churchill. Whatever your reason – a wedding, special celebration, corporate event – this 20 seat premier class carriage offers luxury, history, and prestige.
Image credit: I. Yolland
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Filming
With an iconic history to her name, Pullman Car No. 246 ‘Lydia’ is the perfect candidate for filming/photographic shoots. Whether using her beautifully designed interiors, or the heritage train exterior and crest, South Devon Railway can offer the the carriage, locomotives, ‘set’, and top it off with the stunning countryside!
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