A festive evening out by train: Calstock’s Advent Windows

Hop on the scenic Tamar Valley Line if you’re looking for a relaxed, festive evening out this December. From Plymouth, it’s just a 30-minute journey to Calstock – a riverside village that lights up each winter with its much-loved Advent Windows trail.

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What’s on

Every night from 1 December, a new illuminated window is revealed somewhere in the village. The first window opens at 5pm and stays lit until 9pm; each following evening another is added, creating a growing trail of festive displays to hunt down and enjoy.

Trail booklets cost £2, with all funds raised this year supporting Tamar Valley Preschool and Calstock CP School.

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How to enjoy a festive evening out

Monday – Saturday

• Catch the 16:40 train from Plymouth (16:45 on Saturdays), arriving in Calstock around 30 minutes later

• Pick up an advent trail booklet (£2) from The Tamar Inn (Wed–Sun) or Calstock Social Club (7 days a week)

• Wander through the village at your own pace, spotting the illuminated advent windows as they’re revealed

• Warm up with food or a drink at one of the village pubs, The Tamar Inn or The Boot Inn (pictured above) – both pubs serve food from 6pm, Wednesday – Saturday only (booking advised)

• Head back on the return train at 19:45 (Mon–Fri) or 19:40 (Saturday)

Sunday

Enjoy a relaxed visit to the village, a late pub lunch (booking essential) and a wander through the advent windows at your own pace. Be sure to check the latest train times at gwr.com before you travel.

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The Off-Peak Day Return fare from Plymouth to Calstock is £8.30 for adults. Children aged 5–15 travel at half price, and under-5s travel free.

Save a third off the adult fare for you and a friend (with kids travelling for just £2) with a Devon & Cornwall Railcard – just £13 a year for local residents. Now available to buy online.

Look up train times and buy rail tickets on the GWR website or app.