SATURDAY 25 SEPTEMBER 2021 – THE CHAMPION TORBAY EXPRESS

ANNOUNCEMENT: D1015 ‘Western Champion’ did not pass its mainline test run on Friday 17 September. The motive power will now be a pair of Class 50 diesel locomotives, courtesy of the Class Fifty Alliance. 

With everyone aboard after Bristol Parkway, the outward journey to the Devon coast is now routed via Bath, Westbury, Taunton, Exeter and along the famous Dawlish sea wall before arriving into the Torbay area for an afternoon visit to your choice of either Torquay, Paignton or Kingswear [for Dartmouth*]. The return journey differs between Taunton and Bristol as we take the direct route through Highbridge, bringing variety to your train journey.

Torquay sees itself as the well heeled marina resort of Torbay, whilst Paignton is more the traditional seaside resort. Kingswear, the end of the rail line, sits across the river Dart from Dartmouth, with ferries providing the link. From past experience Dartmouth is by far the most popular choice of our travellers, with a range of independent shops, eateries and easy walks for your own exploration, as well as river cruises.

With a choice of on-board seating and service the ‘Champion Torbay Express’ ticks many boxes to give you a most memorable day out.
*Dartmouth is reached within five minutes by inclusive ferry from Kingswear.

Motive power is expected to be a GBRf class 66 locomotive between Eastleigh and Gloucester, then a pair of class 50 diesel locomotives thereafter, hauling a long rake of MK1 Carriages.

CONFIRMED TIMINGS

*Premier Dining not available from this station.

Table for Two seats are available at a supplement of £35 per person in First Class, First Class Plus and Premier Dining.

Photograph by Jack Boskett.