Ah, the joys of parenthood. Nothing quite says “quality family time” like dragging the kids out of bed at the crack of dawn for a day trip. This weekend, we set off on an adventure to the South Devon Steam Railway in Buckfastleigh, and what a day it was! If you’ve never experienced the sheer joy of watching your children gape in awe at a giant, hissing locomotive, you’re seriously missing out. It’s like Christmas morning but with more soot and fewer pine needles.
(Click the pictures for link to the website)
We arrived at the station bright and early, with the kids in tow, their eyes still crusty with sleep but quickly widening with excitement as they spotted the gleaming engines. The first order of business? Find a snack, obviously. With Josh chanting “I’m hungry” which is to be expected as he cant stop growing in his mid teens and like some sort of ritualistic mantra, we made a beeline for the café
Now, let me tell you about this café. It wasn’t just any run-of-the-mill railway eatery. This was a gastronomic haven in the middle of steam train heaven. The pièce de résistance? A melted Mozzarella spinach Pesto Panini. I know, I know – it sounds like something out of a mad scientist’s lunchbox, but trust me, it was divine. Pesto, mozzarella, and roasted veggies all melted together in a deliciously crispy panini. Tibb’s, the pickiest eater on the planet, gave it a thumbs up (though she did pick out the “green stuff” first) although he to a growing “Kevin” polished of a sausage bap as well with Em’s,I as did ASBO had a monster sausage roll which was full of meat and not like the mush you get in most convenience stores and Josh had a rather large melted cheese and chunky ham panini.
Next up, and with bellies full and spirits high, the model railway shop. Imagine the scene: tiny trains whizzing around elaborate miniature landscapes, complete with little trees, tiny stations, and even minuscule cows that didn’t seem to mind the tiny trains. Josh and ASBO were in their element, their eyes as wide as saucers, pointing and exclaiming over every detail. I’m not ashamed to admit I may have gotten a bit carried away myself. There’s something undeniably satisfying about seeing a model train run flawlessly around its track. Maybe it’s the illusion of control in an otherwise chaotic parenting world, Then on to the platform and explored the quaint little museum filled with railway memorabilia. The kids loved the interactive exhibits, and I got to regale them with tales of “back in my day” train travel, much to their amusement (and mild horror at the thought of no Wi-Fit),
Suddenly a loud whistle, a shunting noise and and a screech, the children ran out of the museum to see the steam train arriving at the platform.
The clatter of the carriage doors as the passengers got of the train the hussle and bussle of people in full excitement of the journey they had just ridden we then stepped on board the train and back into history. The kids’ excitement was palpable. They pressed their noses against the windows, leaving smudges that I’m sure the cleaning crew just love. As the engine roared to life with a mighty puff of steam, Em’s declared she could “see the face of Thomas the Tank Engine” in the clouds of smoke. I didn’t have the heart to tell her it was more likely soot-induced hallucinations.
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After a leisurely ride, we arrived in Totnes. Were we stretched our legs, had a look around the little station, popped over to the Rare breeds Farm, a little haven of lesser known breeds of animals lovingly looked after by the team there, then a short walk into town and its wonderful independent shops and castle, Finally, after what felt like a million “just one more look” pleas from the kids, we headed back to Buckfastleigh
The return journey was quieter, with the gentle rocking of the train lulling the kids into a sleepy stupor. By the time we disembarked, they were practically sleepwalking, clutching their new miniature train souvenirs like priceless treasures.
As we packed up the car and prepared to head home, I couldn’t help but reflect on what a perfect day it had been. We’d experienced the wonders of steam travel, indulged in gourmet paninis, and discovered a shared family love for model railways. Plus, we managed to do it all without a single tantrum – a true miracle!
So, if you’re ever in South Devon and fancy a day of nostalgia, steam, and possibly the best panini this side of the River Dart, hop on board the South Devon Steam Railway. Just remember to pack some wipes – those train windows won’t clean themselves.
