Dartmouth Steam Railway (starting in Paignton)

About Us

A warm welcome awaits you at Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boats. We provide steam train travel, river and sea cruises across the English Riviera and along the beautiful river Dart in South Devon. We are open from February half term right through to November (plus our winter steam train service run in November and December on selected dates). The stunning Train of Lights and famous Santa Express services also run on selected dates in December.

The Dartmouth Steam Railway from Paignton runs for seven miles in Great Western tradition along the spectacular Torbay coast to Goodrington Sands, Churston and through the wooded slopes bordering the Dart estuary and on to Kingswear. The scenery is superb, with seascapes right across Lyme Bay to Portland Bill on clear days. Approaching Kingswear along the beautiful River Dart, with its fascinating craft, and on the far side, the olde worlde town of Dartmouth and the famous Britannia Royal Naval College, Butterwalk, Bayard’s Cove and Dartmouth Castle.

As well as taking the steam train between Paignton and Kingwear, the following days out are available :

Round Robin 
The award winning and best day excursion in South Devon! You will visit the quaint towns of Paignton, Dartmouth and Totnes travelling on a steam train, river boat and a bus. Sit back and enjoy the scenery and we will take care of the rest. This ticket is a favourite with all ages -  commentary on the boat. The times of the river cruise vary daily due to the tides on the River Dart. 

Steam & Cruise
This is a perfect day out for all the family. Firstly travel by bus to Paignton and board the steam train to Kingswear. This is followed by a short crossing to Dartmouth. Once in Dartmouth board a boat for a circular river cruise (approx 1 hour). Return via steam train from Kingswear. 

The Sea Train
An all day excursion from Torquay or Brixham cruising along the South Devon coastline to Dartmouth where you land. Time in Dartmouth for shopping and refreshments and a good look around, then hop on the passenger ferry from Dartmouth to Kingswear for the steam train Kingswear-Paignton and bus 100 back to Torquay. You can travel in the opposite direction and start with the bus to Paignton then steam train to Dartmouth with return sea trip from Dartmouth in the afternoon.

Dogs: Accepted on a lead on all trips, £2 charge per dog.