TRAIN trips to Barnstaple from Crediton and other Mid Devon stations are half-price starting this week, thanks to a new offer to encourage more people to explore North Devon on the scenic Tarka Line.

Day return tickets are just £4.05 from Crediton, instead of the usual £8.10.  Children aged five to 15 get a further 50 per cent off, giving families a great value day out.

The promotion is a partnership between the Tarka Rail Association, Great Western Railway and the Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership.

Richard Burningham, Manager of the Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership, said: “The Tarka Line is one of the South West’s most scenic railways, and this offer gives people a great opportunity to enjoy it.

“There’s lots to do in Barnstaple, from hiring a bike at the station and trying the Tarka Trail, to exploring the historic pannier market.  You can also hop on a bus right at the railway station and head out to Ilfracombe and Bideford.”

Trains run hourly through most of the day in both directions (Monday to Saturday, with a reduced service on Sundays).  The journey from Crediton takes under an hour.  Tickets can be bought on train on the day.

Mike Day, Chairman of the Tarka Rail Association, said: “Increasing passenger numbers on quieter services is one of our main aims.

“We hope that this year’s offer will be as big a success as previously.  In 2014/15 a similar promotion led to 37 per cent more journeys – a fantastic achievement.”

Dan Okey, Great Western Railway’s Regional Development Manager, said: “Great Western Railway is proud to support the communities we serve.

“We are delighted to announce this offer, helping those who fancy a trip to Barnstaple for the pannier market, out further into North Devon or to the many pubs and walks accessible from the line.”

The £4.05 fare is from Crediton and Yeoford.  Tickets from Copplestone are £3.75.  Children (five to 15 years travel for half these fares).  The half-price offer runs until Easter 2017, although fares are subject to a small increase in the New Year.

Alan Quick