SOUTH Devon Railway is celebrating the August Bank Holiday weekend in true West Country style with the return of the popular Rails & Ales festival.

Guests can hop aboard heritage steam and diesel trains departing from Buckfastleigh or Totnes from August 24 to 26, traveling scenic routes through the stunning Dart Valley to Staverton where the renowned Devon Diesel Society’s award-winning beer festival will welcome festival-goers with an impressive selection of up to 60 craft ales, ciders, and beers to enjoy.

Regular train services run throughout each festival day, perfectly blending nostalgic rail journeys with the opportunity to sample some of Devon’s finest food and drink.

At Staverton, the experience goes beyond great drinks. Delicious food options will be available from a barbeque, and live music will enliven the platforms on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Return tickets from Buckfastleigh or Totnes to Staverton are priced at just £12, although ranger tickets provide the best value offering unlimited travel so you can take in the ales and the views all day long.

There is ample free parking available at Buckfastleigh and convenient bus connections nearby.

Totnes Riverside station, just a short 450-metre walk from the mainline station, offers easy access for those arriving by train or bus.

“Rails & Ales has become a beloved annual tradition that perfectly marries heritage rail travel with Devon’s exceptional craft ale scene,” said Ernie Elsworth-Wilson, General Manager of South Devon Railway.

“Our August Bank Holiday festival offers visitors a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with the breathtaking backdrop of the Dart Valley, showcasing both our railway’s rich history and the best in regional produce,” he added.

Now celebrating over 50 years of preservation, South Devon Railway remains one of the West Country’s treasured heritage attractions, operating a seven-mile former Great Western Railway line alongside the scenic River Dart between Buckfastleigh and Totnes.

Alongside classic steam and diesel journeys, the railway continues to delight with unique events like Rails & Ales that blend historical charm with fresh experiences for all ages.

Tickets are available in multiple formats including standard returns, unlimited-travel Ranger passes, and discounted twilight fares when booked online.

For full event details and to book tickets, visit www.southdevonrailway.co.uk/rails-and-ales.