Great Torrington Train Station
Built by the North Devon Railway, it opened on 18 July 1872, operated by the London and South Western Railway. The station dispatched trains to Bideford and Barnstaple, as well as to Exeter St Davids. From 1880 it connected with the narrow gauge freight only Torrington and Marland Railway. On grouping in 1923 the Torrington to Barnstaple line became part of the Southern Railway. In 1925 the narrow gauge Torrington and Marland Railway was rebuilt as a standard gauge line and opened through to Halwill Junction as the North Devon and Cornwall Junction Light Railway. A passenger service operated until 1965 when the line again reverted to carrying goods only until the line through Torrington was closed completely.
The station was closed for regular passenger services in 1965 under the Beeching Axe. But due to both the China Clay and the milk train traffic, freight trains and the occasional passenger special used the line until 1982.
Great Torrington
Great Torrington is a friendly and welcoming town, with good local amenities, independent shops, cafes and regular local markets. Built on the site of an ancient settlement atop an inland cliff with the River Torridge below, the town enjoys spectacular views across rolling hills and unspoilt green countryside.
Tarka Trail
Inspired by the route travelled by Tarka the Otter from Henry Williamson’s famous 1927 novel, the Tarka Trail is a 180 mile, figure of eight walking and cycling route that traverses unspoiled countryside, dramatic sea cliffs and beautiful beaches enabling you to explore and experience the very best North Devon has to offer.
Puffing Billy Cafe
After the railway line was closed the station became a public house and then a restaurant and finally, as you see it today, a licensed cafe.
Claire and Jade are the current owners, and having spent a lifetime (or more!) in hospitality, hope to continue the good work of the previous owners whilst putting their own stamp on the Puffing Billy!
