Dartmouth Steam Railway

“Oh my, I can't rate the Christmas train of lights highly enough. Having lived in the area for 16 years, yet this was the first experience on one of these majestic and truly stunning steam trains. Goliath was made in 1924 and to be gifted with a connection to something so powerful and enterprising for its time, was captivating. I booked very last minute, concerned it might not be for an older teen and not quite sure what to expect, I took a leap of faith. From the first point of arrival, we were whisked away on a journey of magic. As the whistle blew and Goliath started to chug into life, lights a glow, carriages adorned and carols playing, he rhythmically thundered along the tracks. I won't spoil it but I can honestly say we were spellbound. The team had put so much hard work into the experience, little details caringly thought of, it had all the feels. Lights, sounds, carols, (we took flasks of hot chocolate) even the smell of the steam, it was an hour and twenty minutes of Christmas spirit. Sat in a warm and toasty carriage with absolutely nothing to have to think of, or do, but just to be immersed in the moment. Sheer magic. Very good value and the 9pm trip was absolutely perfect, a little quieter too. Whether you are with little ones who would enjoy the earlier times, or Harry Potter fans wanting to be whisked to Hogwarts, or those wanting to feel a bit of Christmas cheer, and of course train enthusiasts, there's something for everyone. I asked the guys tending and stoking the fire, 1.5 tonnes of coal they had shovelled that day, do spare them a thankyou if you see them at midpoint. Bravo to all. Thank you team, can't wait to do it all again next year.”

“Sit back and enjoy the sounds, smells and scenery of the River Dart Valley. A journey as long as you need to add a special memory to your holiday in South Devon. Reminisce or watch children as they enjoy making their own memory aboard a real train. Kingswear is but a short ferry from Dartmouth if you want to add another destination to your day out. But watch your time and tide to ensure you don't miss out on your trip home or plan for the best photographs in this seaside setting.”

“A lovely section of track that features a viaduct that old Steam & Diesel engines pull historic carriages along. Some trips even have a viewing car, which is unusual in my experience. It's not just worth taking the trip for the fun of it though as it stops at Paignton which, like most British towns, has a history all it's own. So two birds for one stone. The track is lovely, the staff are friendly & helpful. Why aren't you here already?”

“As we were staying locally we decided to book the round-robin starting at Dartmouth, both the Steam train and the River boat were amazing and would make a great day out for anyone wanting to explore the area. The captain and tour guide on the boat was amazing and provided lots of entertainment and information to us about the history of the river and the surrounding areas. But was less of a highlight but you can see over the hedges and take in the rolling hills.”