Doniford Halt (or Doniford Beach Halt as it's identified on the OS maps) 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
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.
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, or at the holiday camp, or on the internet. 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 Bay Caravan Hoilday Park is a short walk from the station, as is Doniford Beach which is perfect for a spot of fossil hunting.
ADDRESS
West Somerset Railway,The Railway Station,
Minehead Somerset,
TA24 5BG
TELEPHONE
USEFUL LINKS
