Steam train day trips and regular steam train sightings are one of the many attractions of staying at The Observatory in Teignmouth. Whether you like to just watch them fly past or participate in steam train day trips, The Observatory is a convenient place for rail enthusiasts to stay. You can check availability here.
Steam train Sightings
The Observatory is situated on the top floor of Grand Banks in Teignmouth affording views straight down the train line. Being in such close proximity to the railway line is a great vantage point for rail enthusiasts!
Steam trains travelling from Exeter towards Plymouth and back are frequently seen from the balcony which offers great photo opportunities. Teignmouth itself has several locations, including a long stretch along the sea front, which offer spectacular views of the steam trains as they travel along the coast line.
Steam Train Day Trips
Teignmouth railway station is just a short walk from The Observatory with regular trains to Exeter and Paignton where steam trains are accessible to board during the summer.
The Railway Touring Company Steam Train Day Trips
The Railway Touring Company is offering a day trip on board The Royal Dutchy on 20th August 2023 which can be boarded at Exeter St. Davids which is easy to get to from Teignmouth. This is an excellent experience as it travels along the Dawlish to Teignmouth ‘sea wall’ towards Plymouth. Further details can be found on The Railway Touring Company website.
Dartmouth Steam Railway Day Trips
Paignton itself offers a regular daily steam train service along the coast to Dartmouth. The scenery on this picturesque line is breathtaking. Board at Paignton and travel along the spectacular English Riviera coast line, through Goodrington and Churston station then on to Kingswear. Once at Kingswear a short foot passenger ferry takes you across the river Dart to the historic town of Dartmouth.
Further information and the current timetable can be found on the Dartmouth Steam Railway website.
South Devon Railway – Heritage Train Experiences
Totnes is a beautiful historic town a short train ride away from Teignmouth.
South Devon Railway offers “Heritage Steam Train Experience” days which run between Buckfastleigh and Totnes each day. On “Heritage Steam and Diesel Train Experience” days, there are four services pulled by a steam engine and an additional early evening service pulled by one of their heritage diesels, giving the opportunity to experience both steam and diesel. A timetable and fare information can be found on South Devon Railway’s website.
Steam Train Sightings at Teignmouth
The Railway Touring Company Steam Train Sightings 2023
You can sit back, relax and enjoy the views of these magnificent heritage trains from the balcony at The Observatory, Grand Banks or watch them as they travel along the famous ‘sea wall’ from Dawlish to Teignmouth and over the South Devon Banks.
During 2023 The Railway Touring Company have the following services running throughout the summer. So whether you fancy getting aboard or just watching them travel along the coastline, they really are a sight not to be missed!
Saturday 27th May 2023 – The South Devon Explorer
Sunday 30th July 2023 – The Royal Dutchy
Sunday 20th August 2023 – The Royal Dutchy
Flying Scotsman Centenary
The Flying Scotsman is travelling the UK this summer during its centenary year and is due to travel though Teignmouth on Sunday 30th April 2023. It is expected to pass through on its way to Plymouth around 11.45am and return approx 8pm in the evening.
You can check out availability at The Observatory for the above dates from our Bookings page. Early booking is recommended for peak holiday season and school holidays. All bookings through our Management Agents, Saltwater Escapes.