The South Devon Railway is inviting visitors to swap the car for the train this May Bank Holiday as its popular Spring Rails & Ales event returns from 22nd to 25th May.
Running alongside the much-loved Staverton Beer Festival, the event offers a straightforward idea.
Travel by heritage steam train through the Dart Valley, step off at Staverton and spend time exploring a festival of ales, craft beers and ciders before catching a later service home.
Trains will run throughout the weekend from Buckfastleigh and Totnes Riverside, giving visitors flexibility to plan their day without worrying about driving.
Free parking is available at Buckfastleigh, while Totnes Riverside station sits around a 450 metre walk from the mainline station with nearby bus connections.
The journey itself remains central to the experience. Passengers travel through one of Devon’s most scenic stretches of countryside, following the River Dart on board heritage steam and diesel services that reflect the character of the line.
At Staverton, the Devon Diesel Society’s award-winning bar will be serving a wide selection of beers and ciders, alongside hot and cold snacks, teas, coffees and soft drinks.
The festival is designed to be informal and accessible, with space to sit, talk and enjoy the surroundings.
Music will feature across the weekend, with a Sunday bingo night offering a more relaxed close to the event before the final return services.
Food and drink will also be available on selected trains, with on board buffet facilities complementing the festival offering.
“Spring Rails & Ales works because it is simple,” said Ernest Elsworth Wilson, General Manager at South Devon Railway.
“You can leave the car behind, travel through the valley by train and spend time at the festival without needing to rush. It is a social event as much as a railway one,” he added.
The event continues to attract visitors from across the region, combining heritage rail travel with Devon’s established brewing and cider making traditions.
Tickets and further details are available online.
• For full event details and to book tickets, visit www.southdevonrailway.co.uk
