Exciting rail festival returns to South Devon Railway

The South Devon Railway’s popular Summer Rails & Ales event is set to make a return over the August Bank Holiday weekend, from August 23 to 26.

This year’s festival promises a fun-filled experience with a chance to explore steam and diesel trains while enjoying a wide selection of over 40 real ales, seven craft beers, and 10 ciders. 

The event will take place at Staverton Station, and attendees can sample these drinks at the Festival Bar.

On Saturday, visitors can enjoy live music from local bands, and Sunday will feature a lively Quiz Night.

To attend, you’ll need a railway ticket. 

You can buy a standard return ticket for travel between Buckfastleigh and Totnes, or a £10 return ticket specifically to Staverton. 

There’s also a Ranger ticket available for those who want to ride the trains all day. 

For those arriving after 6pm, all single and return tickets are half price with the code ALES24 online.

Trains run frequently from Buckfastleigh and Totnes Riverside throughout the day. Totnes Riverside is just a short walk from the mainline station and bus stops. 

Free parking is available at Buckfastleigh, but Staverton has no parking, so taking the heritage trains is recommended.

The festival will also feature a BBQ from midday to 8pm daily (except Monday) and the Staverton Buffet Coach will be open from 10am to 4pm, offering pasties, cakes, and drinks.

South Devon Railway, celebrating over 50 years of preservation, invites everyone to join in on this exciting Bank Holiday event. 

For more information and tickets, visit South Devon Railway’s website: https://www.southdevonrailway.co.uk/visit-us/whats-on/rails-ales/