The Tarka Line
The Tarka Line runs for 39 miles (60 minutes) between the city of Exeter and the ancient market town of Barnstaple.
The line follows the gentle river valleys of the Taw and Yeo, home to the author Henry Williamson, whose classic tale 'Tarka the Otter' gives the railway line its name.
Linking North and South Devon, the Tarka Line travels through the famous green and rolling Devon landscape. On the way you can visit Crediton, a thriving market town with a variety of interesting shops or alight at Eggesford and walk from the station into the magnificent Forestry Commission woodlands.
Then arrive at Barnstaple, a bustling shopping and commercial centre, with the historic Pannier Market and Butchers' Row. If you are feeling fit, why not cycle the Tarka Trail? Starting from Barnstaple Station, the trail is part of the countries longest continuous traffic-free cycle paths, and forms part of the Devon Coast to Coast Cycle Route. The route starts with a flat, off-road route, suitable for families, so why not take the train to cycle the Tarka Trail?
The Avocet Line
Named after the bird that overwinters on the famous Exe estuary, the Avocet Line is a busy railway connecting Exeter Central and Exmouth stations.
The railway travels down the 11 mile line to Exmouth on the eastern side of the River Exe Estuary and is popular with local people for commuting and shopping, as well as visitors on holiday and day trips.
Why not break your journey at Topsham to explore the ancient port, with its interesting history and Dutch style architecture. Exmouth is a popular resort with a long sandy beach, ideal for watersports or a stroll along its promenade. During the summer, ferry boats go to Topsham where you can resume your train journey, and you can also cross the estuary to Starcross, where you can join a train for Exeter or Plymouth.
The Riviera Line
One of the most scenic stretches of main line railway in Europe, the line from Exeter to Newton Abbot sweeps along the sea wall and offers spectacular views of the River Exe estuary, English Channel coastline and magnificent red cliffs.
Whilst you travel, look out for a variety of wildlife along the estuary and at Dawlish Warren, a designated wildlife reserve. The line also passes Powderham Castle, with deer grazing in the park lands.
The train takes you right alongside the sea to Teignmouth before travelling inland to the busy market town of Newton Abbot where the line divides. One line runs to Torquay and Paignton (28 miles, 50 minutes), the other travels westward through the historic market town of Totnes to Plymouth (52 mile, 60 minutes) and Cornwall with views across the South Hams and Dartmoor.
The Tamar Valley Line
From Plymouth in Devon to Gunnislake in Cornwall, the Tamar Valley Line travels for 15 miles (50 Minutes) through an area of outstanding natural beauty.
As you leave Plymouth enjoy the views of the Royal Naval Dockyard at Devonport, before crossing into the Bere Peninsula and on into Cornwall, crossing over the splendid Calstock Viaduct as you go.
With the railway now used by local residents and visitors, The Tamar Valley was once a busy copper mining area and reminders of its industrial past can be seen from the train.
Uses latest train information provided by National Rail Enquiries.
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