Story
Lapford Mill Steam Railway – Who we are!
Developing a unique attraction within the mid-Devon community and village of Lapford.
Lapford Mill Steam Railway is located in the grounds of Lapford Mill. This local landmark and private family home has a good tradition for hosting Arts and village events. Together with her noble, industrial heritage spanning over 700 years, wider community engagement at the mill continues a healthy tradition steered by owner Alex Gater since 2015. The Gater family's roots at Lapford Mill reach back to the early 15th Century and some of the earliest working residents at Lapford Mill. Alex knew this was the perfect location to realise his dream of creating a welcoming place for music lovers, social gatherings and family entertainment.
With plans now made to reopen on various dates in early summer 2026 - occasional live bands, outdoor theatre productions, and family days out - Lapford Mill now boasts more Steam-Up Days, starting in May, with demonstrations and rides on a 7 1/4″ gauge steam locomotive and carriages – great fun for railway enthusiasts of all ages..
Built by Volunteers
Every metre of track, every level crossing, every piece of infrastructure for Lapford Mill Steam Railway has been installed by a team of dedicated volunteers over late winter and early spring. Recent working days have seen the railway extended and improved at pace, with participants ranging from experienced engineers to complete newcomers.
What we’ve achieved so far:
£1,500 Private donations to date
370+ Volunteer hours
200+ Metres of track laid
220+ Cups of tea!
We now need your help to develop and expand this unique attraction further.
£2,000 is sought to cover immediate improvements and core costs:
These much-needed funds are required for ballast (16 tonnes!) and earthworks to improve the grounds, to start and complete the next leg. We’re running low on teabags for our hardworking volunteers too!
Find out all about what’s on at Lapford Mill - Steam Railway days, theatre and music events, and our much-loved summertime café and bar.
Thanks for taking the time to visit my JustGiving page.
Donating through JustGiving is simple, fast and totally secure. Your details are safe with JustGiving - they'll never sell them on or send unwanted emails. Once you donate, I will withdraw funds directly. It's the most efficient way to donate and saves time and costs.
