A trainline on the south coast is one of the UK’s most picturesque and has tickets available for just £8. The Riviera Line is the railway between Exeter and Paignton, passing through Dawlish and Teignmouth, as well as the English Riviera resort of Torbay in Devon.
Great Western Railway currently operates services on the line. From Monday to Saturday, a half-hourly service calls at most stations and runs beyond Exeter to Exmouth along the Avocet Line. On Sundays, a more restricted service operates, most terminating at Exeter. National Geographic named it one of the most scenic train journeys in the UK, alongside the Cambrian Coast Railway and the Strathspey Railway. The magazine said it “showcases the best views the English Riviera has to offer” with sights including turquoise seas, picturesque villages, and wildlife.
Upon leaving Exeter, passengers can see the 12th-century cathedral and cross a stone viaduct. Then, the train passes through the countryside, where canals and rivers can be spotted before passing Powderham Castle and its deer park.
Next, the route goes through the villages of Starcross, Cockwood and Dawlish Warren. From here, the line passes through a series of tunnels before arriving in Teignmouth, following the river to Hackney Marshes and Newton Abbot.
Descending towards the sea, the train moves through Torquay, passing Livermead Beach and Preston before arriving at Paignton. The route has views of beaches, market towns, cliffs, harbours, and nature reserves.
According to Scenic Rail Britain, the route has been dubbed “one of England’s best-loved stretches of railway” passing through “seaside beauty spots” for “epic views”.
Holidaymakers should board the train in the summer months for the best views. The most scenic section of the line is between Starcross and Teignmouth.
A one-way journey takes an hour and 10 minutes and covers 28 miles. An off-peak day return is available from £8.20, according to Scenic Rail Britain.