VISITORS to South Devon will have the rare chance to dine in the same luxurious railway carriage once used by Winston Churchill and General Eisenhower from this weekend.

The South Devon Railway has confirmed the public launch of Pullman dining experiences aboard ‘Lydia’, a 1925-built carriage with a remarkable history.

Lydia formed part of Churchill’s funeral train in 1965 and is now fully restored, ready to carry passengers once again through the Dart Valley countryside.

The carriage will host a series of Ploughman’s Lunches and Afternoon Teas on selected dates throughout August.

Guests will enjoy a relaxed, seated dining experience while travelling on the heritage railway’s scenic 14-mile round trip between Buckfastleigh and Totnes.

Lydia's return marks a new chapter for one of the country’s most evocative pieces of railway heritage and offers passengers the chance to step into a bygone era of elegance and steam-powered travel.

The launch of Lydia comes alongside the railway’s long-standing dining services aboard the 1950s-built South Devon Limited Restaurant Car.

Encompassing Sunday Lunches, Ploughman’s Lunches, and Afternoon Teas, all dining experiences include a first-class train fare, and unlimited day travel.

They highlight locally sourced West Country ingredients, with vegetarian, vegan and gluten-free options available.

Panoramic views, attentive service, and the atmosphere of heritage travel combine to make this a memorable day out for families, food lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

With free parking at Buckfastleigh and easy links to other local attractions, South Devon Railway offers a charming escape this summer - with Lydia now firmly back on track.

To view available dates and to book tickets, visit www.southdevonrailway.co.uk