At the kind invitation of South Devon Railway, some of the Benedictine monks of Buckfast Abbey were guests aboard historic Pullman Car ‘Lydia’ for afternoon tea on a sunny trip along the Dart valley.
The Abbot and monks of Buckfast Abbey were invited by South Devon Railway to be its guests aboard the restored Pullman dining car, ‘Lydia’, for a rare afternoon away from the monastery.
The community’s available monks, joined by members of Abbey staff, boarded at Buckfastleigh for a return journey to Totnes. In glorious sunshine, they enjoyed tea and cake, provided by their hosts, as the train made its way through the Dart valley.
Lydia has a remarkable history. Pullman Car No. 246 was completed in 1925 by the Midland Railway Carriage & Wagon Company. She was a favourite of Sir Winston Churchill, was used during the Second World War, and formed part of his state funeral train in 1965. After more than 50 years out of public use, she was restored at South Devon Railway in 2024/25.
Abbot David Charlesworth OSB 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.”
The community thanked South Devon Railway for its generous invitation, and extended particular thanks to Alasdair Page, Commercial Manager at South Devon Railway, whose careful attention to detail made the day so special.