New UK train journey that’s like stepping back in time – where passengers are involved in a 1950s murder mystery
THE UK is home to some of the most unique – and most attractive – train journeys.
One of those routes runs alongside a river in Devon, and it is launching a brand-new themed experience for rail enthusiasts this spring.
The South Devon Railway Line stretches for just seven miles between Buckfastleigh and Totnes.
Built in 1872, the former Great Western Railway branch line, now runs heritage train experiences throughout the year.
A description on the South Devon Railway website reads: “Jump into a world of nostalgia at the South Devon Railway, where our heritage steam trains gently meander alongside the river Dart through glorious Devon scenery.”
Throughout the year, the railway line also operates themed experiences.
One of those is the Train to Nowhere – an interactive murder mystery themed train experience set in the 1950s, which is brand-new for 2024.
Passengers will be asked to board the steam train where they will need to solve a murder.
The performance has been staged by Murder by Appointment, the the longest established murder mystery company in the West of England, and it revolves around a film casting party.
On the train, an eccentric and successful film director will be revealing the casting line-up of his new film.
As the journey progresses, the film’s cast fight for a new role in the movie resulting in a murder, which passengers must solve through a series of clues.
Departing from Buckfastleigh Station at 7pm, the evening journey will last for three hours and will return to the station at 10pm.
Each customer will receive a hot Devon pasty, while the on-train Buffet Car will also sell a selection of hot, cold and alcoholic drinks.
The dress code has been described as “casual” – although there is a prize the best era-appropriate outfit.
The themed train will run on selection days throughout the year, with the first service set to depart on May 30.
Services are also slated to depart on June 20, August 9, September 13, September 26, with more dates to be added subject to demand.
Tickets cost £29 per person and is described as being “unsuitable” for children under the age of 12.
Other steam trains to take in the UK
There are several other steam trains passengers can board in the UK, including the North Norfolk Poppy Line, which runs from Sheringham to Holt.
The route, which is almost exclusively by volunteers, has been running since 1887, apart from a short time between 1964 and 1975 when it was closed.
Nowadays, the line is loved by locals and rail enthusiasts looking for a real nostalgic train experience.
Because it’s run mainly by volunteers, the line doesn’t run every day, but only on select days during the year.
They mainly include weekends and school holidays, however it operates most days during the summer months.
Meanwhile, there’s also a scenic woodland in the UK with its own steam train.
The Rheidol Valley has been named one of the most imagical forests and woodlands in Wales. by BBC Countryfile.
Holidaymakers will find the Vale of Rheidol Railway station right in the heart of the seaside destination.
It is from here that steam trains, not out of place from a Wes Anderson movie, depart every two hours towards Devil’s Bridge and back in the summer.
Having run since the Edwardian times, this railway journey is as close to taking a step back in time as possible.
Sun Travel's favourite train route in the UK
Travel Reporter Ryan Gray has revealed his favourite train route in the UK, which some Brits may find surprising.
The East Coast Mainline
The route along the east coast is, in my opinion, one of the best train journeys in the country, with several landmarks, castles and views out to sea all passing by out the window.
For me the best stretch is from Durham to Edinburgh, although the line runs all the way from London Kings Cross, with bucolic views and landmarks like Alexandra Palace adding to the journey further south.
However, as it makes its way north of Darlington, the line really begins to show off with views of Durham Cathedral, the Angel of the North, the Tyne and Millennium bridges and Lindisfarne castle and holy island can also be spotted.
Ryan’s top tip: The window seats on the right of the train, facing out to the east, are the prime positions to enjoy the views.
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