The site occupies the original location of the Bickleigh station, once a major stop on the Great Western Railway's Exe Valley branch.
The centre operates one of the few remaining examples of the Exe Valley line's historical infrastructure in a preserved state.
The attraction maintains multiple operational gauges, allowing for a comparative look at different sizes of narrow-gauge locomotives.
The site houses an extensive indoor model railway collection that spans various scales and historical periods.
The original 19th-century railway buildings have been repurposed to host exhibits rather than being demolished.
The Devon Railway Centre is a heritage railway site located at the former Bickleigh station on the Exe Valley Railway line. The site features a collection of narrow-gauge railway locomotives and rolling stock displayed in an outdoor setting. Visitors can participate in unlimited train rides on the site's miniature and narrow-gauge tracks. The attraction emphasizes interactive experiences, including a model railway exhibition and a large indoor soft play area. Much of the infrastructure occupies the original platform and track bed of the GWR Exe Valley line, which closed to regular passenger traffic in 1963. The site also functions as a museum for railway memorabilia, offering insight into the history of local Devonshire rail travel. It provides a dedicated environment for families with an focus on hands-on railway education and play.
The restored platform edge featuring the original station signage and heritage signal box.
Bring weather-appropriate clothing as the train rides and many exhibits are outdoors.
Check the official website for event-specific operating days, such as Santa Specials or seasonal galas, before traveling.
Utilize the indoor play areas as a refuge if the typical Devon rainfall occurs during your visit.
Do not expect a long-distance mainline train journey; this is a heritage site focused on short-track rides and static displays.
Operates primarily from spring through autumn; remains closed for the winter season and typically does not operate on weekdays outside of school holiday periods.
