Paignton & Dartmouth Steam Railway, Paignton

A trip on the Boat Train is a great way to see the best of this part of the world, and after our day spent on the 'Boat Train' we can see why it's called the English Riviera. We had a 'boat train ticket' which mean that we would be travelling by rail, ferry and river boat all in one journey! We started our journey off in a beautiful steam train full of character that left the gloriously restored station in Paignton. Services were very regular and I enjoyed chatting to the staff members who were obviously very passionate about the steam train. On the steam train, we had lovely views of the devon coast and the very colourful beach huts that line the local beaches. After a couple of stops we got off the train at Kingswear, and boarded the local ferry which takes you across the river to the Majestic Dartmouth which is full of charming victorian architecture, luxurious boats and is also home to a huge naval college. We took a quick stroll around Dartmouth and then boarded the river boat (The Cardiff Castle) for a cruise down the river. The scenery was simply stunning and the commentary on the boat was both hilarious and very interesting. We were particularly impressed with the facilities on the boat including the bar which was maintained to a very high standard. Once the cruise had finished, we returned on the ferry and steam train back to Paignton, and I have to say that we all thoroughly enjoyed the trip. My daughter who is 14 months was absolutely enthralled by both the boat and the train, and hasn't stopped saying 'Choo Choo' since our trip! My only advice for would be travellers is to start your journey early as I would have loved to have spent more time in Dartmouth but we didn't leave ourselves as much time as we would have liked to fully make the most of it. This is a top day out for people and families of all ages.

Lovely day out.Excellent views of the Devon countryside especially from the glass carriage although this comes at a cost! Great to do at christmas, came around with mulled wine and christmas cake and at the end of the line was Father Christmas (Who has presents for the children) And a pantomine. Often have Thomas The Tank days.