Mine Train Ride

The Mine Train Ride near Tavistock is a proper bit of fun if you've got kids in tow, though it's not going to keep anyone over twelve entertained for long. You board a small train that trundles through what feels like an old mining operation, with plenty of theatrical touches - creaky tunnels, dummy miners, that sort of thing. It's the kind of attraction that works best as a 30 to 45-minute interlude rather than a headline event.

Families with younger children will get the most mileage out of it. The ride itself is gentle enough for nervous kids, and there's something about sitting in a train that feels exciting at that age. It's not a thrill ride by any stretch - more of a curiosity than anything else. The setting does tap into Devon's mining heritage, even if the whole thing feels more theme park than authentic history lesson.

If you're staying at Woodovis Holiday Park or Sunnyside Eco Glamping nearby, it makes sense as a rainy afternoon option rather than something you'd plan your holiday around. The admission cost isn't clear from what I can find, so ring ahead before you set off from your accommodation. The real value is that it's close enough to the parks not to eat up half a day in travel, and Tavistock itself has enough going on that you can fill out the rest of your time properly. It's worth a go if you're in the area with young ones, but don't expect magic.