Great Rail Journeys · Escorted tour

South Devon, Dartmouth & the English Riviera

South Devon, Dartmouth & the English Riviera, a rail journey with Great Rail Journeys

Experience the English Riviera at its very best aboard two heritage railways, a river cruise and a journey along the English Riviera by rail.

Day by day

  1. Day 1railovernight: Torquay

    Arriving at the traditional seaside resort of Torquay

    Your holiday begins in Torquay, where you meet the Tour Manager in the mid-afternoon at the hotel. After settling in, enjoy some time to explore at your own pace. Enjoy sweeping sea views or wander down to the nearby beaches. A short distance from the hotel is Torquay train station, with regular services to Paignton. This evening, gather at the hotel restaurant for dinner with the group.

    Meals: Dinner

  2. Day 2railovernight: Torquay

    Dartmouth Steam Railway & river cruise

    After breakfast, journey on the Dartmouth Steam Railway along the 6.7-mile route from Paignton to Kingswear, soaking up views of the English Riviera's coastline and Long Wood. Hop on the ferry to Dartmouth for free time to explore, visit Dartmouth Castle, seek out a cove or enjoy lunch. Afterwards, board a boat for an hour-long cruise along the River Dart. A coach transfer returns to the Paignton hotel in time for dinner. Note: trains are steam-hauled where possible; heritage diesel locomotives may run due to timetable changes or weather.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  3. Day 3railovernight: Torquay

    Exploring the English Riviera at leisure

    A free day after breakfast. Explore Torquay or hop on a train to nearby Paignton. Visit Paignton's picturesque 18th-century harbour, stroll along the promenade to the pier, walk rugged headland paths, or browse the bustling high street with local shops and tearooms. Dinner is served at the hotel this evening.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  4. Day 4railovernight: Torquay

    The South Devon Railway, Buckfast Abbey and a Devon cream tea

    After breakfast, coach to Buckfastleigh for a seven-mile steam-hauled round trip on the South Devon Railway to Totnes and back through the scenic valley of the River Dart. Then visit Buckfast Abbey, home to a working community of Benedictine monks, with award-winning gardens, an interactive exhibition and a chapel. In the afternoon, visit Dawlish for a traditional high tea at the Old Mill Tearoom (dating from 1717) and free time to explore the town. Coach transfer back to the hotel for dinner. Note: trains are steam-hauled where possible; heritage diesel locomotives may run.

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  5. Day 5

    Homeward bound

    Your holiday comes to an end after breakfast. Once checked out, you are free to make your way home or continue exploring Devon independently.

    Meals: Breakfast

Included

  • Expertise of a UK Tour Manager from start to finish
  • 4 nights' 4-star hotel accommodation
  • Standard Class rail travel
  • All rail and coach travel throughout the tour
  • Breakfast and dinner each day
  • All guided tours and excursions

Not included

  • Cancellation & Travel Insurance

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