luxury train journey devonshire coast

All aboard for luxury train rides across Britain - with beautiful views, friendly company, fine dining and staff who take care of a passenger's every possible need

It's fine dining, silver service and opulent carriages for a steam-hauled trip along the stunning Devonshire coastline

Snowdonia: Guests luxuriate in a deluxe train ride through spectacular north Wales

Scotland: An unforgettable ride with rugged mountains, clear lochs and some super-fine dining

Settle to Carlisle: On the scenic Settle to Carlisle service, Mark prepares to pop the question to his partner

English Riviera: It's fine dining and opulent carriages for a ride along the stunning Devonshire coastline

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Celebrations, britain's most luxurious train.

Evoking the opulence of 1930s rail travel, this luxurious yet intimate train traverses the glorious countryside en-route to some of Britain's top destinations.

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Travel in one of seven beautifully detailed carriages, each bearing the name of a great British castle or stately home.

The individually designed carriages have been lovingly restored by some of the country's top craftspeople, including marquetry experts, muralists and mosaic artists.

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Take a seat in your unique, elegant carriage and await a feast for all the senses.

Featuring the finest seasonal ingredients from the British Isles, classic and innovative dishes are crafted by our executive head chef and his team in a cupboard-sized kitchen.

The scenery that unfolds from your window inspires each and every course.

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2024 journeys are now available to book. Departing from a variety of regional stations, offering day trips and a fine dining experience to Britain's best loved destinations.

Our 2024 programme is further enhanced with the inclusion of a Champagne reception, Caviar blinis, upgraded Sommelier wine selection matched perfectly for each course, Port with the cheese board, Fortnum & Mason tea, and memorable gift on departure. We've also brought back Champagne Afternoon Tea which includes a bottle of Laurent-Perrier champagne per couple.

AWARD-WINNING CHEESEBOARD

To round the journey off, choose from an array of British cheeses from our award-winning cheese board, accompanied with chutney, fruitcake, biscuits and a glass of Port. Finally, mull over the journey with Fortnum & Mason tea and petits fours.

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Britain's Most Luxurious Train Journeys

Explores some luxury train rides across Britain, with beautiful views, friendly company and staff who take care of a passenger's every need.

The most scenic train rides in Devon

Our expert guide to the very best scenic train journeys in Devon - from beautiful branch-line rides to sensational steam-train trips

• 10:25, 30 MAY 2019
• Updated 17:25, 5 JUN 2019

Train travel doesn't just have to be about the daily grind - it's also the best way to enjoy Devon's gorgeous scenery at a more leisurely pace.

Easier than a car and more comfortable than a bus, taking the train offers the perfect opportunity to sit back and admire Devon's rolling hills, glorious coastline, fascinating wildlife and sandy beaches .

And as well as the more regular branch-line routes, you can also be transported back to a bygone era by hopping on a lovingly-restored steam train or even visit a miniature railway.

So whether you're in Devon on holiday or enjoying a day out with family or friends, we've got a perfectly picturesque train journey for you.

Here are the most scenic train rides in Devon

The tarka line (exeter central - barnstaple).

Running for 39 miles and following the river valleys of the Yeo and Taw, this journey is not only one of the most scenic in Devon but also the whole of the UK.

It's a perfect way to visit Barnstaple , capital of North Devon , or to reach the great cathedral city of Exeter .

Stop off and explore the historic market town of Crediton and rural Eggesford, where the first state forest was planted in 1919.

Once in Barnstaple, the beautiful North Devon coast is a bus ride away and the famous Tarka Trail starts at the train station.

Click here to save money on your train ticket with Raileasy.

The Riviera Line (Exeter Central - Paignton)

One of England’s best-loved stretches of railway, this train passes right beside the Exe Estuary and the coast, offering stunning views.

The regular service calls at seaside beauty spots like Dawlish and Teignmouth , and onwards to the beaches of the world-famous English Riviera.

Here it stops at Torre (closest for Torquay town centre), Torquay and Paignton .

The Avocet Line (Exeter St Davids - Exmouth)

This journey passes by the Exe Estuary for much of its route and boasts excellent views, particularly for bird watchers.

Then you can enjoy the shops and restaurants in Topsham or visit the beach and try the award-winning fish and chips in Exmouth.

Or you can explore on foot, bike, train and ferry with the Exe Trail .

South Devon Railway

This multi-award-winning railway is one of the Westcountry’s best-loved tourist attractions and is the longest established steam railway in the South West.

It's a seven mile former Great Western Railway branch line, built in 1872, which runs along the stunning valley of the River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes .

It boasts steam trains with heritage rolling stock, and you'll also have time to visit the Totnes Rare Breeds Farm and Otters And Butterflies .

Click here for booking details and visitor reviews.

South Devon Miniature Railway

Perfect for younger train enthusiasts, enjoy a half-mile journey around the award-winning grounds of Buckfastleigh station on the South Devon Railway .

Lynton & Barnstaple Railway

This half-hour two-mile train trip between Woody Bay and Killington Lane offers some stunning scenery.

Hop aboard a nostalgic steam train and take in the Exmoor countryside in style, with views of the scenic moorland to one side and the North Devon coast to the other.

You can get up-close to a real steam engine and at Woody Bay Station there's a chance to grab a snack or get a drink in the tearooms and garden.

Plym Valley Railway

Travel along a rebuilt one-and-a-half mile section of a former Great Western branch line from Marsh Mills to Plym Bridge.

The heritage railway centre boasts steam and diesel locomotives, carriages, wagons, and other historic railway artefacts to recreate the atmosphere of a bygone age.

Then, when you get off the train, you can explore Plym Bridge Woods , which is a National Trust property.

Devon Railway Centre

This attraction in Bickleigh is set around an original Victorian Great Western Railway station on the former Exe Valley line.

Enjoy unlimited train rides around the centre, while children clip the tickets and wave the flag to start the trains.

There'll also be time to explore the model-railway exhibition with buttons that actually control the trains.

East Devon Line (Exeter St Davids - Axminster)

This journey passes through the beautiful Devon countryside as it heads out from Exeter through Cranbrook and Honiton to Axminster .

Honiton is a traditional market town full of antique shops and famous for its lace-making, while Axminster is an unspoilt market town internationally renowned for its carpets.

Thanks to onwards bus connections, the line is a gateway to the Jurassic Coast.

At Axminster railway station, hop on a bus to Seaton, Lyme Regis or West Bay (where much of the TV series Broadchurch was filmed).

• Click here for our expert's guide to hotels, campsites, things to do, eating out, beaches and kids.
• Click here for more ideas for your holiday in Devon.
• Things to do in Devon
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Britain's Most Luxurious Train Journeys

Step inside a world of fine dining and opulent carriages for a trip to Kingswear on the Devonshire coast. The steam-hauled train, with its plush interiors, decadent food service and magnificent vistas, is as impressive as the destination itself.

Join guests onboard a luxurious vintage train for a trip along the historic Settle to Carlisle line. The journey takes guests through some of Lancashire, Yorkshire and Cumbria's most stunning towns and countryside, and passes over Ribblehead Viaduct.

In Scotland, rugged mountains, clear lochs and fine dining are all on the itinerary for this trip aboard the high-speed Midland Pullman train. Train manager James helps guests relax on the scenic run up to Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park.

Join guests aboard the majestic Statesman train as they travel to Eryri (Snowdonia) in north Wales. The route treats travellers to views of the stunning north Wales coastline as they sip on a morning cocktail and enjoy a three-course breakfast.

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• Britain's Most Luxurious Train Journeys
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Britain's Most Luxurious Train Journeys - Episode Guide

Episode List

Episode: 1x01 | Airdate: Apr 10, 2023

A guide to luxury train rides across Britain, beginning with the steam-hauled Saphos train on the Devonshire coast. Train manager Sandra and her hospitality team help a passenger surprise his wife of 40 years with a special anniversary present, while executive chef Nick creates a sumptuous five-course meal and learner steam train driver Ian clocks up more training hours passing alongside the red rock coast.

Episode: 1x02 | Airdate: Apr 17, 2023

The historic Settle to Carlisle line, travelling through some of Lancashire, Yorkshire and Cumbria's most stunning countryside and passing over the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct. The train's staff help out with a surprise wedding proposal and a 90th birthday celebration, while executive chef Nick creates masterpiece meals including a shin of Galloway beef and a trio of mini desserts.

Episode: 1x03 | Airdate: Apr 24, 2023

A trip aboard Scotland's high-speed Midland Pullman train, which travels through the Perthshire town of Pitlochry, and the resort of Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park. Passengers include a couple celebrating their anniversary, a mother bidding farewell to her daughter, and a woman who shares her alopecia story.

Episode: 1x04 | Airdate: May 1, 2023

On the Statesman train, travelling to Snowdonia in north Wales, a retired train driver is surprised with a heritage steam railway ride from the historic mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. Luxury train regulars Gary and Kim celebrate their first wedding anniversary with a return trip back to where they spent their first holiday together.

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All Seasons

S01e01 episode 1.

• April 10, 2023

A guide to luxury train rides across Britain, beginning with the steam-hauled Saphos train on the Devonshire coast. Train manager Sandra and her hospitality team help a passenger surprise his wife of 40 years with a special anniversary present, while executive chef Nick creates a sumptuous five-course meal and learner steam train driver Ian clocks up more training hours passing alongside the red rock coast.

S01E02 Episode 2

• April 17, 2023

The historic Settle to Carlisle line, travelling through some of Lancashire, Yorkshire and Cumbria's most stunning countryside and passing over the iconic Ribblehead Viaduct. The train's staff help out with a surprise wedding proposal and a 90th birthday celebration, while executive chef Nick creates masterpiece meals including a shin of Galloway beef and a trio of mini desserts.

S01E03 Episode 3

• April 24, 2023

A trip aboard Scotland's high-speed Midland Pullman train, which travels through the Perthshire town of Pitlochry, and the resort of Aviemore in the Cairngorms National Park. Passengers include a couple celebrating their anniversary, a mother bidding farewell to her daughter, and a woman who shares her alopecia story.

S01E04 Episode 4

• May 1, 2023

On the Statesman train, travelling to Snowdonia in north Wales, a retired train driver is surprised with a heritage steam railway ride from the historic mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. Luxury train regulars Gary and Kim celebrate their first wedding anniversary with a return trip back to where they spent their first holiday together.

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British Pullman

Luxury British Pullman Train Travel across the UK

Step aboard the British Pullman luxury train and be whisked back to a more elegant era. Experience pure 1920's style opulence as you navigate through the glorious British countryside on one of many themed journeys available throughout the year. With authentic, fully-restored carriages, the British Pullman is "The" train to enjoy a luxury train day trip in the UK. Finished with fine woods and the highest-quality fabrics, the Pullman-style carriages are exceptional in every way, complimented with exceptional service and multiple courses of the most exquisite cuisine. A truly unforgettable journey that will evoke memories you will cherish forever, our British Pullman day trips are the perfect retreat back to a time where luxury was unrivalled in every aspect. The 1920's carriages have sheltered royalty and have even starred on the silver screen. Each carriage is delightfully styled with antique upholstery, vintage lighting with every detail truly taken care of. History has truly been preserved at its finest aboard the British Pullman. The British Pullman offers round-trip, single day luxury train travel departing from London Victoria. A generous selection of journeys means finding your perfect journey is easy; whether you're looking for a luxury train trip to enjoy with friends, or to spend with a loved one, we are pleased to offer a range of journeys suited for every occasion. Our ever-popular Champagne Afternoon Tea offers a luxurious jaunt across the countryside as you enjoy a relaxed and sociable time aboard the British Pullman, while our Murder Mystery Lunch offers an incredible, immersive experience accompanied by delicious food.

If you require more information or assistance with your booking or are interested in a group or corporate journey, please do not hesitate to contact us .

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• Lines to Explore
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Tamar Valley Line

Plymouth - Gunnislake

Explore the riverside village of Calstock. Great pubs & walks.

Looe Valley Line

Liskeard - Looe

Enjoy great estuary views and Looe’s harbour and beach.

St Ives Bay Line

St Erth (P&R) - St Ives

One of Britain's most scenic railways. Amazing views.

Maritime Line

Truro - Falmouth Docks

Visit Falmouth’s harbour, beaches, castles and shops.

Atlantic Coast Line

Par - Newquay

Arrive in the heart of Newquay ready to hit the beach.

Dartmoor Line

Exeter - Okehampton

Dartmoor adventures right from Okehampton station.

Exeter - Barnstaple

Take in the countryside views and explore North Devon.

Riviera Line

Exeter - Paignton

Travel the famous Devon coast to the English Riviera.

Avocet Line

Exeter St Davids - Exmouth

Journey along the Exe Estuary to Topsham and Exmouth.

East Devon Line

Exeter St Davids - Axminster

Visit Honiton and Axminster with countryside views.

• Tamar Valley Line Plymouth – Gunnislake
• Looe Valley Line Looe – Liskeard
• St Ives Bay Line St Erth – St Ives
• Maritime Line Truro – Falmouth
• Atlantic Coast Line Par – Newquay
• Dartmoor Line Exeter – Okehampton
• Tarka Line Exeter – Barnstaple
• Riviera Line Exeter – Paignton
• Avocet Line Exeter – Exmouth
• East Devon Line Exeter – Axminster
• Explore Cornwall by train Glorious beaches, estuaries, wooded valleys – soak up the views on your way to beloved coastal destinations.
• Explore Devon by train From rolling countryside to seaside views, Devon’s branch lines offer a real taste of the West Country.
• Walks from the railway
• Rail Ale Trails
• Foodie Guides
• Beaches by train
• Arts, culture and heritage
• Vinyl Trail
• Times and prices
• Parking and public transport
• Travelling with kids
• Taking bikes
• Dogs on trains
• Assisted travel

Explore Devon by train

Exeter to Barnstaple

Exeter to Paignton

Plymouth to Gunnislake

Exeter to Exmouth

The Avocet Line runs along the eastern side of the Exe Estuary from the cathedral city of Exeter to the seaside resort of Exmouth. Stop off at Topsham for its fine local museum, shops, restaurants and quayside antiques centre. Read more .

Devon Travel Guide (Best tips, itinerary ideas + map)

By: Author Tracy Collins

Posted on Last updated: August 10, 2023

Our  Devon Travel Guide  includes recommended places to visit and things to do, accommodation options, tips and more for one of the most beautiful counties in England. Everything you need to plan your visit and essential reading for any visitor to Devon!

Let’s plan your visit to Devon

Devon in  England’s south west  is England’s third-largest county and a top destination for British holidaymakers.

Boasting of two stunning coastlines (North/South), beautiful beaches,  castles , historical treasures and quaint towns and villages it has something to appeal to every age group. It is a fantastic destination for families, couples, solo travellers.

Use the information in this guide to Devon to plan your very best trip. You will find everything you need in this article including a map of Devon, the very best things to do and see in Devon, where to stay in Devon and answers to frequently asked questions about visiting Devon.

What you will find in this complete Devon Travel Guide

Devon Travel Guide – Map of Devon

• FAQ's – Visiting Devon

When is the best time of year to visit Devon?

How long should i plan to spend in devon, what are the very best places to visit in devon, what traditional food should i try in devon, how to travel to devon from london, how can i get around devon, best attractions, places to visit & things to do in devon, places to stay in devon, best tours to devon from london, experiences, tickets and trips to book in devon, enjoy your visit to devon.

FAQ’s – Visiting Devon

Devon is beautiful during all seasons and can be very busy in spring and over the warm summer months. Autumn is quieter and a great time to go – the crowds have disappeared, children are back at school but the days can be warm and the days still light well into the evening.

Average temperatures range from lows of 7/8 degrees in January to highs of 19/20 in the summer.

If you are planning to visit Devon and Cornwall on a road trip I would recommend at least 10 days to enjoy the best of both counties. (Itinerary coming soon)

Devon is the perfect weekend destination from London and you can certainly fit many Devon tourist attractions into 48 hours including some of Devon’s most iconic destinations such as Dartmoor National Park, Burgh Island and the Jurassic Coast (part of which is shared with neighbouring Dorset )

You can find out more about the best places to visit in Devon in my complete guide. If you are planning must-do days out in Devon for your itinerary my choice of the best places & top 5 things to do in Devon are:

• Enjoy the open moorlands, valleys and wildlife in Dartmoor National Park
• Take a trip to Burgh Island (a tidal island with the exclusive Burgh Island hotel famous for its Art Deco architecture and links to Agatha Christie)
• Explore the Jurassic Coast (you may discover fossils!)
• Take a road trip around many pretty Devon villages including Lynton and Lynmouth, Woolacombe, and Beer.
• Take a ride on one of the heritage railways such as the South Devon Railway or Linton and Barnstable Railway.

Yummy! So much delicious food to eat in Devon (especially if you love dairy) I highly recommend tantalising your tastebuds with the following:

• Cheeses including Harbourne Blue, Vulscombe, Curworthy, Ticklemore and Friesla (there are more with equally wonderful names)
• Devonshire Clotted Cream fudge
• Potted crab
• Devonshire Cream Tea
• Fish and chips
• And if you enjoy gin you may be interested to know that the oldest working gin distillery can be found in Plymouth!

Devon is located approximately 175 miles from London. There are a number of transportation options to get to Devon.

• London to Devon by car – this will take 3 1/2 hours (beware of traffic in summer and holiday months!) You will pass Stonehenge on the way so be sure to book tickets if you want to stop off for a look around.
• London to Devon by bus – National Express buses leave from Victoria Coach Station. Journey time is 5 hours to Exeter. Cost – £10 – 14
• Take the train from Paddington to Plymouth. The journey takes around 2 1/2 hours. Pick up a car rental in Plymouth.
• Alternatively, take a train from London Paddington to Exeter St David’s to pick up a train to Barnstable.
• Barnstable is also where you can take the Tarka Line one of the UK’s great scenic journeys.
• A new train line (the Dartmoor Line) opened up in November 2021 which runs trains between Exeter and Okehampton.
• London to Devon on a group tour – see below for options.

Read – How to get around the UK – a complete guide to transportation (trains, planes and automobiles)

• Hire a car – compare rates for the best deals we recommend Discover Cars .
• Great Western Railway operates in Devon and serves 270 destinations by train in the county. Check timetables and ticket prices with the trainline
• Stagecoach runs the bus services between towns and villages in Devon. There are a number of bus passes available.
• Cycle – Yes you can cycle Devon! There are routes to suit all ages and levels of ability. More information coming soon.

THINGS TO DO IN NORTH DEVON

THINGS TO DO IN SOUTH DEVON

BEST DEVON ITINERARY

JURASSIC COAST TRAVEL GUIDE (INCLUDES DORSET)

WHERE TO STAY IN DEVON – ACCOMMODATION & LOCATION GUIDE

Find more special stays in my Accommodation Guide for England

• 3-Day Stonehenge, Bath & South West Coast Tour

Explore the best of the southwest of England on a 3-day tour from London. See the prehistoric stones of Stonehenge, drive along the fabled Jurassic Coast, venture into the wilds of Dartmoor, and visit the historic cities of Exeter and Bath.

• Devon and Cornwall: 5-Day Tour from London

Enjoy 5 days exploring Devon and Cornwall. Home to the legends of King Arthur, Celtic Kingdoms and Roman towns, stop at beautiful beaches and wild moorlands. Visit Norman cathedrals and extraordinary coastlines as you see this beautiful pocket of England.

• Gliding Experience in Devon – Climb up to a height of one mile above the beautiful Devonshire countryside, on reaching this height we will stop the engine and peacefully glide back down to earth.
• Life and times of Agatha Christie walking tour – The walking tour takes guests around Torquay’s seafront, highlighting the places that played a part in Agatha’s life and influenced her writing. You’ll be walking in the steps of the world’s greatest authors!
• Hot Air Balloon Flight from Exeter – Enjoy a Champagne Hot Air Balloon flight over the beautiful City of Exeter and the surrounding Devon countryside. Take in the stunning English scenery as you float effortlessly through the sky. Minimum of two people.
• Lake District Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)
• Bath Travel Guide
• Cotswolds Travel Guide
• Top 10 things to do in South East England
• Northumberland Travel Guide (including tips, itinerary + map)

Looking for more inspiration for your travels in England? Check out my England Travel Planning Guide which has loads of ideas, tips and resources to plan your itinerary.