Saturday 14th and Sunday 15th September 2024
As part of the nationwide Heritage Open Days event, we will be opening up ‘Behind the Scenes’. This weekend offers a fantastic opportunity to see what goes on to keep our railway running; a fascinating day out for anyone with an interest in railways and engineering or those who just like to know how things work!
Take a tour of our established engineering workshops and hear about the heritage skills being kept alive. Step in to Buckfastleigh’s old Signal Box and learn what it was like to be a signalman. Enjoy the classic cars on display and relive the road transport from yesteryear.
What you can see
Below are some examples of what you can usually see at our Behind the Scenes events.
- Our extensive and well-equipped workshops at Buckfastleigh where steam engine boilers are rebuilt and repaired. You can get up close and see our the huge machinery required to maintain railway vehicles including our boiler presses and wheel turning lathes.
- Explore our engine shed where we prepare our locomotives for their day’s work and perform general maintenance.
- The original Buckfastleigh Signal box is open for you to have a go at pulling levers.
- At Staverton, visit our Permanent Way (track and civils) maintenance yard, and see up close some of the machines and equipment we use to keep the track safe and give a comfortable ride.
- Join our friends Thames Valley & Great Western Omnibus Trust for free vintage bus rides to Ashburton, Buckfastleigh and Staverton each day.
- Vintage car display at Buckfastleigh station.
(All subject to availability)
Train Timetable
You can download a detailed copy of our Heritage Open Days Time Table by clicking HERE.
Bus Timetable
Event Updates
FREE Tours and Experiences
At Buckfastleigh:
Workshop Tours 10.00 – 16.00
Original Signal Box 10.00 – 16.00
Vintage Car Show 10.00 – 16.00
Vintage Bus Rides – various times
At Staverton (frequent train service running from Buckfastleigh and Totnes):
Permanent Way yard 10.00 – 16.00
Heritage Train Services
We have an intensive service of steam, auto train (a unique type of Great Western Railway train where the driver is able to control the locomotive from the cab) and heritage diesel railcar operating throughout the day. For the best value, purchase one of our ranger tickets which allows unlimited travel to experience all the train services on our line!
Tickets
Our standard train fares apply for the duration of this event. We recommend that you purchase a Ranger ticket if you would like to experience all our stations, displays and vintage bus services.
In line with the national Heritage Open Days scheme, workshop tours, the original signal box, car displays and vintage bus services will not incur a charge.
