The Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company is one of South Devon’s most popular tourist attractions. This preservation steam and marine company, based in Queen’s Park Station, Paignton, operates steam trains and riverboats that offer a unique and memorable way to explore this beautiful coastline.
Steam along the English Riviera
This classic steam train service runs between Paignton and Kingswear, offering stunning views of the English Riviera. Journey through the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty (AONB), with its picturesque villages and countryside running alongside the River Dart, with stops at stations along the way. The trains are beautifully restored and maintained, providing a nostalgic experience for passengers of all ages.
Cruise the River Dart
In addition to the steam trains, the company also operates a fleet of riverboats. These boats offer cruises along the River Dart, including trips to Dartmouth and Totnes. It’s a great way to get close to the scenery and wildlife of the Dart, and learn about the rich nautical history and boating culture of the South Devon Heritage Coast from knowledgeable mariners.
The History and Heritage of Dartmouth Steam Railway
Dart Valley Railway Ltd, the owner of Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company was founded in 1963 by a group of enthusiasts who wanted to preserve the defunct Totnes to Buckfastleigh and railway line that had been closed by the infamous Beeching Axe by British Railways in 1962. It’s a great example of life imitating art in the style of the famous film The Titfield Thunderbolt.
The company began operating steam trains exclusively on the former Great Western Railway branch line between Paignton and Kingswear in 1973. This was after the Totnes to Buckfastleigh line became the South Devon Railway, which continues to run today. With public support and private investment, Dartmouth Steam Railway grew into an important South Devon amenity, beloved by locals and tourists alike.
Acquisitions and Mergers
In 1993, the company acquired the Greenway Ferry, which operated riverboats along the River Dart. The ferry was originally established in 1946 and had been operating under various owners before being acquired by the Dartmouth Steam Railway And River Boat Company.
Later in 1999, the Dart Valley Railway acquired ‘The Red Cruisers’, also known as River Link at the time. This impressive fleet of riverboats enables the Dartmouth Steam Railway And River Boat Company to provide river and boat tours that take in the best of the River Dart and surrounding countryside.
Over the years, the company has faced various challenges, including the closure of the railway line due to landslides and the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism. This sad video was of the Goliath steam engine, resting up during lockdown:
However, the company has continued to adapt and innovate to thrive and remain a commercial success.
A Packed Roster of Services
The Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company offers a range of services to its customers. When you head to Torbay or Dartmouth, locals will always encourage you to take a ride. I love the sea, but am not a boat person, so a river cruise on the Dart Explorer with a Breton top, neckerchief, and Musto cap makes me feel like Queen of the River for a couple of hours.
Popular services include:
- Steam Train Rides: The company offers steam train rides on its historic locomotives that run between Paignton and Kingswear. The journey takes passengers through the beautiful South Devon countryside, offering stunning views of the coast and countryside. This steam train is just another great reason to head over to Dartmouth for the annual Royal Dartmouth Regatta this year.
- The Dartmouth ‘Through-Ticket’ from Great Western Railways: GWR passengers can book a special through-ticket that takes them straight to Dartmouth via the Dartmouth Steam Railway from Paignton. If you want to head down to Dartmouth by train in the summer (June 13th onwards) just book this ticket with 24 hour’s notice and make your way by rail to Paignton Station. You can also use the ticket to cross the Dart from Kingswear to Dartmouth on the foot passenger ferry for free.
- River Boat Trips: The company also offers riverboat trips on the River Dart. These trips take passengers from Dartmouth to Totnes, passing through picturesque towns and villages along the way. The riverboat trips are a great way to see the area from a different perspective.
- Combined Train and Boat Trips (Round Robin): The company offers combined train and boat trips, allowing passengers to experience both the steam train and river boat trips in one day. It’s well worth the money as it gives you the opportunity to see as much of the area as possible within a day at a leisurely pace.
- Special Events: The company also hosts special events throughout the year, including the famous Train of Lights (the BEST!), jazz and blues evenings, and murder mystery evenings. These events are a great way to experience the railway and riverboat trips in a unique and memorable way.
Overall, the Dartmouth Steam Railway and River Boat Company offers a range of services that cater to tourists and locals alike. With its historic steam trains, picturesque river boat trips, and special events, the company is a popular attraction in the South Devon area. If you’re in Devon this summer, support this great company in its amazing efforts to preserve our nation’s amazing steam heritage!
Dart Mart Devon 