Rails & Ales

Twice a year the South Devon Railway celebrate with a feast of steam and diesel trains – and our famous beer and cider festival too!

Trains will be running all day with departures from Buckfastleigh and Totnes Riverside at frequent intervals. Totnes Riverside station is a 450m walk from the mainline station and bus stop; perfect if you are leaving the car behind and visiting us by public transport. Where possible, our train timetable is shaped around mainline connections. At Buckfastleigh we have a large FREE car park and there are nearby bus stops for routes between Plymouth and Exeter. There is NO PARKING available at Staverton so we recommend using our heritage trains to take you there.

At Staverton, the beer festival will be in full swing, offering a great selection of different ales, craft beers and ciders to enjoy from Devon Diesel Society’s award-winning bar. 

The Staverton Buffet Coach opens to serve a variety of hot & cold snacks, teas, coffees and soft drinks.

Sunday evening is usually quiz night – a just for fun general knowledge quiz.

Rails and Ales

Spring Rails & Ales - 24th to 27th May 2024

Further details of our 2024 festivals will be posted here shortly.

Summer Rails & Ales - 23rd to 26th August 2024