Kingsbridge Vintage Running Day was a great day out for all the family

Kingsbridge Vintage Running Day last weekend was a great day out for all ages, for both bus enthusiasts and casual admirers alike. 

Routes criss-crossed the South Hams each with their own stunning classic vehicle to transport you from A to B. Refreshments popped up all around and happy faces could be seen from all the buses. 

Jo Müller, Richard Teague and little Ivy - credit Jo Müller

Jo Müller took her partner Richard and their four children down to the Quay bus station and said the event was “really nice”. She said: “I loved how the conductors interacted with kids and gave us tickets and told us the prices in ‘old money’ terms. 

“They were really friendly and it's great to have something happening in Kingsbridge that brings families together and is free!!!”

Rich and Orlen - credit Jo Müller

Beth Cumming also really enjoyed the day, saying: “We went on the Kingsbridge to Loddiswell route and back again and it was really good fun. It was great for all ages too, I took my husband, dad and step-mum and a friend’s daughter and we all really enjoyed it. 

“We stopped at Loddiswell Station and it was really lovely to see the station and the gardens that we usually walk past - and the cakes were delicious! Even better that they were raising money for the local primary school. 

“It was really busy everywhere too, which was nice. We had a bit of a wait on the way back but the conductor made up for it! He was so funny and also had one of the original ticket machines so we all got a ticket as a souvenir too. 

A great conductor - credit Beth Cumming 

“Can’t believe it was all free too - so good. We’re going to turn it into a South Hams pub crawl next year I reckon!” 

 One of the original tickets - credit Beth Cumming 

This year was the 18th Vintage Running Day in Kingsbridge and it made a very welcome return after having to be cancelled due to Covid last year. 

All services are free and there is no limit to the number of journeys you can take during the day. From the buses you will be able to see sights normally hidden by the high banks and hedgerows of Devon lanes and really appreciate the beauty of the South Hams at first hand.

Routes took in Salcombe, Thurlestone, Soar, Hope, South Pool, Slapton, Totnes, Loddiswell Station, Goveton, Modbury, Moreleigh, Blackawton and Bigbury-on-Sea. Short circular routes visited Churchstow and Aveton Gifford.

MAIN IMAGE: L-R: Maddie, Ivy and Orlen riding the buses at Kingsbridge Running Day - credit Jo Müller