Take a heritage railway day trip this summer – and save £20 per person with Bristol World in 2026

These rail adventures promise memorable, nostalgic journeys reliving the golden age of rail. Whether you chose to visit maritime Plymouth, the seaside town of Fowey, the quaint harbour village of Charlestown or experience the fun of the Mazey Day festivities in Penzance, a super day out awaits you.

The Mazey Day Cornishman

Departing from Bristol Parkway and Bristol Temple Meads on Saturday, June 27, The Mazey Day Cornishman will be hauled by two Class 37 classic diesel locomotives for a scenic journey across the Somerset Levels and over the border into Devon. Climbing to Whiteball Summit, this special train will stop at Exeter and then run along the pretty Exe Estuary and the dramatic Dawlish Seawall.

After a stop in Plymouth, The Mazey Day Cornishman will cross the river Tamar on the spectacular Royal Albert Bridge and head into Cornwall.

With the option of visiting Par, attractive Fowey, Charlestown, Truro with its interesting cathedral or staying on board for Penzance, you will be spoilt for choice. Penzance will be alive with the festive sights and sounds of Mazey Day with colourful flags and flowers, street performers, traditional arts, music, food and parades including the famous large wicker figures created by the community.

The Royal Duchy

On Sundays, July 26, August 30 and September 27, The Royal Duchy will turn heads as it departs from Bristol Temple Meads hauled by a magnificent steam locomotive.

After picking up more passengers at Yatton and Taunton, with its steam loco working hard The Royal Duchy will climb to Whiteball Summit. Later, from Exeter the train will follow the Exe Estuary with a dramatic run along the sea wall between Dawlish and Teignmouth.

More challenging climbs follow for The Royal Duchy’s historic loco as it powers up some of the steepest main line gradients in the country, including Rattery Bank, before it descends to Plymouth.

At the maritime port of Plymouth, there is lots to see and do including the famous Hoe, the ancient Barbican and seafront areas and the National Marine Aquarium.

Alternatively, stay on board The Royal Duchy to cross the River Tamar on Brunel’s masterpiece the Royal Albert Bridge into Cornwall. The train travels through pretty Cornish countryside to Par, where buses will be waiting to take you to either the picturesque seaside town of Fowey or the harbour village of Charlestown, home to the Shipwreck, Rescue & Heritage Centre.

Treat yourself – dine on board

The Railway Touring Company’s travel options include Standard, with refreshments to purchase on board, or bring your own picnic, and First with brunch in the morning and a light meal on the return served to you at your seat.

Special occasion? The Royal Duchy offers Premier Dining, including a full English breakfast and a four-course dinner, all freshly prepared on board and silver served to you at your linen-covered table.

Save £20pp

The Railway Touring Company is offering Bristol World readers a £20 per person discount. Visit The Railway Touring Company for details, booking code and T&Cs.