• Sunday 23rd August 2026
    We will not be operating steam locomotives on Sunday 23rd August - but one of our heritage Class 37 diesel locomotives will be in service instead!

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Toby Buckland’s Garden Festival at Powderham

On 1st May 2026 to 2nd May 2026

Toby’s Garden Festival is a joint collaboration by gardening broadcaster Toby Buckland and the popular magazine Country Gardener. They pop up annually in the stunning location of Powderham Castle, near Exeter, the 14th century family home of the Earl and Countess of Devon.

The main focus is to bring together the best nurseries from the West Country and beyond – including many well-known Chelsea medal winners – and host two days of quality gardening talks on a wide range of horticultural topics – all free to visitors.

In addition. there are top-notch arts and crafts, locally-made street food to suit all tastes and free family music and entertainment for a fabulous day out.

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Reviews

  • Lovely trip - The steam railway train is brilliant, the iconic click-clacking of the train was enjoyable to listen to and and the train ride had stunning views. The short ferry was also lovely (only about a minute or two).
  • So organised - So well organised. All had seat reservations and the coaches were extremely clean. The river cruise did not disappoint and without doubt one of the best commentaries I have ever heard. Without exception everyone enjoyed the day out, and thought it was the highlight of our holiday. A credit to all.
  • Charming - We did a round trip from Totnes to Dartmouth. The trip was wonderful with clean comfortable boat, nice staff and excellent commentary (and nice refreshments). On the return we were treated to an extra spin past the two castles at the mouth of the estuary. Marvelous.

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