• 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!

Ash Die Back

10th March 2022

We have taken the opportunity of the winter season to remove trees infected with ash die back that are close to the line. Ash die back is a major issue in the country and trees alongside the railway line are identified, monitored and removed as required.

Ash dieback is a fungus which originated in Asia. It doesn’t cause much damage on its native hosts of the Manchurian and Chinese ash in its native range. However, its introduction to Europe about 30 years ago has devastated the European ash because our native ash species did not evolve with the fungus and this means it has no natural defence against it.  Ash dieback is estimated to kill around 80% of ash trees across the UK.

Back to News & updates

Reviews

  • Highly recommend. - From boarding in Paignton, to alighting the ferry in Dartmouth, this journey has to be the best you can take on the English Riviera. It all goes by too quick. Highly recommend.
  • Great little railway - You’re given allocated seats with your family bubble and it's all very secure. The carriages have had Perspex screens installed. All staff were friendly and helpful. We got some lovely pictures from the train.
  • Agatha Christie country - The ride on the train is beautiful right along the coast & Dart valley. You can also take your well behaved dog. I would highly recommend this excursion, we go every time that we are in Devon, it is not to be missed.

Read more reviews on TripAdvisor