‘A day out to remember’ – South Devon Railway’s 1940s weekend brings Winston Churchill’s carriage Lydia back to life

Visitors stepped back in time at the beginning of July as the South Devon Railway hosted its much-loved ‘Back to the 1940s’ event from Saturday 5 to Sunday 6 July 2025, complete with steam trains, vintage vehicles, and a special Winston Churchill re-enactment aboard the historic Pullman carriage, Lydia.

A photoshoot took place on board Lydia, a historic railway carriage used by Winston Churchill and General Eisenhower in the lead-up to D-Day, as part of the weekend’s festivities.

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The event invited guests to immerse themselves in the charm of the Victory Generation, with live 1940s music, dancing, and wartime displays spread across the railway’s stations.

A spokesperson for South Devon Railway said: “Lydia embodies the golden age of luxury rail travel.”

“Lydia will now form the centrepiece of a series of curated heritage experiences on the South Devon Railway, including private hires, corporate events, and scheduled fine dining journeys along the scenic line between Buckfastleigh and Totnes,” the railway confirmed.

ABOVE: Inside the beautifully restored Pullman carriage Lydia, once used by Winston Churchill, during the South Devon Railway 1940s weekend. Photo credit: Andy Francis, Tarkatography ©

The carriage’s return has been described by organisers as more than a restoration, calling it “the revival of a legacy that shaped the course of the 20th century.”

“As the world continues to reflect on the meaning of leadership, resilience, and international cooperation, this iconic carriage offers a unique and moving way to connect with the past,” a spokesperson said.

Originally built in 1924 for the prestigious Pullman Company, Lydia played a pivotal role in Britain’s wartime history, hosting high-level strategic meetings before the 1944 Normandy landings.

The carriage was also used during Churchill’s state funeral in 1965.

After more than 50 years out of service, Lydia has been fully restored to its original 1920s specification by a skilled team at the South Devon Railway.

It will now be used for heritage journeys, dining experiences, and special events throughout the year.

ABOVE: A Winston Churchill reenactor brings history to life aboard the Pullman carriage Lydia at South Devon Railway’s 1940s weekend. Photo credit: Andy Francis, Tarkatography ©

Across the weekend, visitors enjoyed entertainment from Fine Whines Vintage Jazz and the South Devon Big Band, Lindy Hop dance displays and tutorials, vintage stalls, and wartime exhibits.

A bar served ales, cider, and wine, while the atmosphere was brought to life by historical re-enactors and classic vehicles.

Unlimited travel on the seven-mile heritage railway was included with ticket entry, offering passengers a scenic journey through the valley of the River Dart.

Organisers encouraged guests to dress in 1940s attire and bring their ration books for what they called a “day out to remember.”