Present-Day Plym Valley Railway
The Plym Valley Railway currently operates vintage diesel and steam trains along a 1.5-mile stretch of track between Marsh Mills and Plym Bridge Platform, offering picturesque views of the Plym Valley. The railway features a restored station at Marsh Mills, complete with a visitor centre, café, and exhibits on local railway history. Regular events, including themed train rides, galas, and educational activities, make the railway a popular destination for families and enthusiasts alike.
Preservation and Reopening
In 1980, enthusiasts formed the Plym Valley Railway Association intending to restore part of the original line. Restoration began on a section near Marsh Mills, where the track was relaid, and heritage rolling stock was acquired. The first passenger services on the restored railway began in 2001, operating a short stretch of track.
History of the Plym Valley Railway
The original railway opened in 1859, built by the South Devon Railway Company to connect Plymouth with Tavistock and later extend to Launceston. Designed to transport passengers, freight, and agricultural goods, the line also served as an important route for local industries, including quarrying and mining. After the 1876 amalgamation, the line operated as part of the Great Western Railway (GWR) and was later absorbed into British Railways. Following the rise of road transport and the decline in local industries, the railway saw a significant drop in passenger and freight usage. The line was closed to passenger traffic in 1962 and completely shut down by 1964, as part of the cuts implemented by the Beeching Report.