Frequently Asked Questions

Frequently Asked Questions

If you have a question, you will hopefully find the answer below.

  • Who is included in a family ticket?
  • Two adults and up to three children aged 3-15 are covered on a family ticket
  • Are dogs allowed?
  • Yes, we welcome well behaved dogs! A nominal fee of £3 is charged on all our services (except Train of Lights and Train of Lights+Santa services where registered guide dogs only are accepted).
  • Is the steam railway open in the winter?
  • Yes it is! We run a reduced service on selected dates and there is of course our famous and award-winning Train of Lights trains. See our Winter Services page for more details.
  • What age do you class as a child?
  • 3-15 years. Under 3’s travel free, (this may vary on special event days and on particular services such as Train of Lights)
  • Why are the times of the boat cruises between Dartmouth and Totnes different each day?
  • The River Dart is tidal so we have to work around the tides.
  • What is your access policy?
  • You can read our access policy here.
  • Is there always an open top bus running?
  • Sadly, we cannot guarantee an open top bus will be running, even in good weather - it depends on servicing periods of our buses. The weather does play a factor in our decision as well.
  • Can we reserve seats in The Devon Belle Observation Car?
  • Unfortunately, this is on a first come first ‘seated’ basis. You can privately hire The Devon Belle by calling 01803 555872. There is a charge for this service.
  • Can I use my concession pass on your buses?
  • Unfortunately, concession passes are not accepted on our bus services.
  • Can I work as a volunteer?
  • Possibly! Please call 01803 555872 for more information.
  • How do I make a complaint?
  • Please write to the Group General Manager, Kingswear Signal Box, The Square, Kingswear TQ6 0AA.
  • Who are your lovely photographers?
  • We would like to thank our fantastic photographers for helping us to illustrate our trains, boats and buses plus the wonderful South Devon countryside we are lucky enough to be situated in. Check them out here.
  • Do carers receive a discount?
  • We do offer a ticket discount to Registered Carers. See our Registered Carers page for more details and important notes/conditions.

Can't find an answer?

If you can't find an answer to your question above, please send us a enquiry message or give us a call.

Visitor Information

Facilities & Gift Shop

Facilities & Gift Shop

The essential place for information on fab coffee and cake and shopping for gifts and mementos, etc

Getting Here & Planning

Getting Here & Planning

Planning how to find us and where to park when you arrive plus our access policy

Further Information

Further Information

Great walks, information on our dogs policy & downloading our leaflets - all in one place

Groups & Discounts

Groups & Discounts

A warm welcome awaits your group at Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat Co.

Reviews

  • Perfect day - We have done this several times over the years and is a fantastic day out. The steam train ride is great, but the cruise makes it. The commentary is very good and funny. Would definitely recommend this trip if in the area.
  • 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.
  • Chugging along! - The cruise along the River Dart was delightful and the witty commentary was also very informative. The last leg on the steam train was fantastic - chugging along past the beautiful beaches with children waving to you from the sands. Just priceless! We had the most amazing day, the itinerary is done with military precision and is therefore relaxing and exciting - we really loved it. This has got to be a "must do" trip!

Read more reviews on TripAdvisor