Doniford Halt is a pretty little platform with a heritage GWR 'pagoda' waiting room and views from the platform bench of the surrounding farmland, Quantock Hills and Steep Holm Island in the distance rising from the silvery Bristol Channel.
Station Facilities
Over the last few years, Doniford Halt has been subject to a lot of tender loving care and now, set in its own lawned island in the fields, the quiet atmosphere, curved, flowered platform and lovely views have brought holiday-makers and locals just to sit on the benches and relax in the beautiful Somerset countryside. There is no ticket office, however you can buy your tickets on the train from one of our travelling ticket inspectors if you've not already bought them online. Neither are there any other facilities - just peace, broken by the occasional passing steam train!
This is a request stop, so to catch a train you must put your hand out to signal to the driver, just as if you were at a bus request stop! On the way back, you need to be in one of the front coaches (the platform's too short for more than three) and tell the guard you want to get off at Doniford.
What To See and Do Nearby
Doniford Beach is a fossil beach, with rock pools and sand, the perfect place to explore and look for ammonites and devils toenails, as well as crabs and other marine life.
Doniford Farm Park is a free to enter family friendly farm, with goats, chickens, rabbits, horses and more. There is a large play barn open from 10am to 4pm.
There is a Haven Holiday Park, just up the road, thats the perfect place to stay with space for the whole family.
History of Doniford Halt
The halt was built by the West Somerset Railway itself and opened in 1987 to serve the local community, self-catering and holiday campsites. Heritage materials were used: the 'pagoda' from the old Exe Valley line and the platform sections from Montacute on the GWR's Taunton to Yeovil line.
Doniford itself is a hamlet with historical buildings dating back to the 16th century. Doniford is known for its picturesque countryside and stunning coastal views, attracting visitors who appreciate its natural beauty. The hamlet itself is small, with a population of around 300 residents. It consists mainly of traditional stone-built houses, giving it a charming and rustic feel.
In 1925 a military base was set up in Doniford, and at the outbreak of war in 1939 Doniford Camp was taken over by the RAF and remained in their hands until 1957, during which time secret work on radar was also undertaken. The camp was finally closed by a conveyance dated 13th October 1982, although troops had departed some time before then. The main camp site has now been transformed into a holiday complex, which is Haven Holiday Park, Doniford Bay.
ADDRESS
West Somerset Railway,The Railway Station,
Minehead Somerset,
TA24 5BG
TELEPHONE
USEFUL LINKS
