Babbacombe Cliff Railway, which has been transporting people from up on Babbacombe Downs to the secluded Oddicombe Beach since 1926, will re-open on Saturday 10 February after completing its annual maintenance programme. The Cliff Railway will now run every day through until the winter providing a vital service for local people and holidaymakers. Oddicombe Beach has increased in popularity over recent years and the railway carried over 120,000 people last year .
Marketing Manager, Nicky Allen, said “We are very excited about 2018. As well as our daily running we have some fantastic, fun, family events planned as well as a few other projects going on in the background. As always we try to bring some new ideas as well as make sure we continue with the favourites.” This year’s events include the brand new Cliff Railway Day on Saturday 12 May which is designed to be a day of celebrating all things Cliff Railway. The Babbacombe Ukulele Festival is back and now a two day event on the weekend of 9 and 10 June. Plus, 2018 sees the third year of the incredibly popular competition, Last Team Standing on Saturday 8 September. Nicky said “We really do enjoy putting on events at the beach. There is always such a great atmosphere. People want to be there and want to enjoy themselves and that is simply a delight for us. Oddicombe is a lovely place all year round and when we have our beach filled with people, music and laughter then we are a very happy team.”
The first event of the year is the Easter Eggstravaganza on Monday 2 April. With a treasure trail for the children and some chocolate treats for those who successfully complete it.
Babbacombe Cliff Railway is run by a Community Interest Company made up of a board of voluntary directors who oversee the running of the business. There is a professional team of staff who manage the railway on a day to day basis and there is also a Visitor Centre on Oddicombe Beach which is manned by volunteers. The Cliff Railway is always interested in hearing from anyone who may be interested in volunteering with them so if you think you might like to find out more then give them a ring on 01803 328750 or e-mail info@babbacombecliffrailway.co.uk