Dartmouth Steam Railway from Paignton
The Dartmouth Steam Railway makes the journey from Paignton to Kingswear part of a day out on the Dart. At Kingswear, a separate passenger ferry crosses to Dartmouth. The railway does not cross the river, so keep both stages in mind when planning a return connection or arranging assistance.
The published 2026 timetable serves Paignton and Kingswear without intermediate stops. Check the date and direction before travelling rather than assuming that you can join the train at a point along the route. The getting here guide covers the separate mainline journey to Paignton.
Choose between a train and ferry day, an itinerary adding a river cruise, or a seasonal circuit. Each has a different combination of transport, and the time you can spend exploring depends on the departure you select. Allow room in the day for the crossing and the return trip.
Dartmouth and the steam railway
Explore a private regional itinerary combining the railway with Dartmouth and Greenway.
Steam Train, Steam & Cruise and Round Robin
The operator's Steam Train ticket combines a return rail journey with the Kingswear to Dartmouth passenger ferry. It suits a visit centred on the train and independent time in Dartmouth. The ferry is a river crossing, so distinguish it from a longer sightseeing cruise when comparing tickets.
Steam & Cruise adds a river circular cruise to the train and ferry. Round Robin combines train, ferry, a Dartmouth to Totnes river journey and a bus back to Paignton. Its route depends on tides and its 2026 season ended on 29 October. The railway operates on selected winter days, so check the specific schedule instead of relying on a summer pattern.
These operator itineraries are separate from the private combination shown here. That excursion brings together Greenway, Dartmouth, ferries and the railway for a group of up to five. Check the booking details for the precise arrangements and any admission needed for Greenway House. Read more about the estate in our Agatha Christie guide.
Dartmouth, Kingswear and Dartmouth Castle
Kingswear is the railway terminus on one side of the Dart; Dartmouth is reached by passenger ferry on the other. Treat the crossing as its own stage and check how it fits your train. Once in Dartmouth, a harbour walk can be combined with time for a meal or a separate attraction, provided the return timetable leaves enough room.
Dartmouth Castle stands at the mouth of the Dart and has more than 600 years of defensive history. Its gun tower and the former harbour chain tell a different story from the railway journey. If the castle is your priority, check opening and the current access arrangements before setting out, then plan the train and ferry around that visit. On 1 November 2026, the castle operator reported a local road closure and directed drivers via the A379 and Weeke Hill (B3205). Check whether this diversion still applies before driving.
Tickets, dogs and access
Compare the full itinerary and current price for the date you want. Children under three are generally free on the railway, though special events can have different rules. Dogs normally travel for a charge; the Train of Lights and its Santa version have restrictions, with registered guide dogs allowed. Check the particular event before bringing a dog.
Train ramps are available, but wheelchair dimensions and capacity matter. River vessels involve steps, and conditions at Totnes vary with the tide. Motorised wheelchairs and scooters are excluded from river vessels, apart from suitable Kingswear to Dartmouth ferries. Discuss the complete journey with the operator in advance, including transfers between train and boat.
For a different view of the bay, compare Torquay boat trips with the river itineraries. Our things to do guide offers ideas for a day based in Paignton when the railway timetable does not suit your plans.
Frequently asked questions
Does the train go all the way to Dartmouth?
The train runs to Kingswear. A separate passenger ferry crosses the Dart to Dartmouth and is included in the operator's Steam Train ticket.
Is the Round Robin available throughout winter?
The 2026 season ended on 29 October. Check the operator's current dates, as train services run on selected winter days.
Can wheelchair users make the journey?
Train ramps are available within stated size and capacity limits. River vessels can involve steps, so discuss every leg with the operator before booking.