The Abbot and community of Buckfast Abbey were recently delighted to accept an invitation from our neighbours at South Devon Railway to travel aboard their Pullman dining car, ‘Lydia’.
Those monks able to attend, joined by some members of Abbey staff, boarded at Buckfastleigh for a return journey to Totnes. In glorious sunshine, they quietly enjoyed tea and cake as the train made its way through the peaceful Dart valley.
Lydia is a carriage with a remarkable story. Pullman Car No. 246 ‘Lydia’ was completed in 1925 by the Midland Railway Carriage & Wagon Company. She was a favourite of Winston Churchill, used during the Second World War and for his state funeral in 1965. After more than 50 years out of public use, she was restored at South Devon Railway in 2024/25, and it was a privilege to experience her elegance first-hand.
Abbot David said: “It was a lovely afternoon for the community. As Benedictines we try to offer a warm welcome to everyone who comes to Buckfast, so it was a particular joy to be on the receiving end of such generous hospitality from our neighbours. Travelling through the Dart valley in the sunshine, aboard a carriage with so much history, was a delightful gift. We are very grateful to everyone at South Devon Railway.”
We are very grateful to everyone at South Devon Railway for their kind invitation and warm hospitality, and especially to Alasdair Page, Commercial Manager, whose careful attention to detail made the day so special. It was a gentle, joyful afternoon that the community greatly appreciated.
See all images from the day here.
