After all the hard work at the station, the buffet and the toilets are finally open. I went up to the station to see for myself what it looks like. I was able to chat with Leanne about the buffet and also caught up with Pamela Woods, the Chair of Dartmoor National Park Authority.

Leanne explained that she had been bought up at Strawberry Fields Lifton, which her parents own – so from an early age she got involved in all areas and learnt the ropes. After having her children, she ran the catering at Dingles for 6 years. Unfortunately COVID came along and that had to close. Leanne then adapted and developed her mobile business. Starting with delivering brownies and cakes – The Amazing Brownie Bakers which took off during the lockdown. The business developed into an outside catering company for organisations and events.

When the opportunity came up, she said she had to apply. Like with Dingles, the history and heritage was something she was keen to build on. She told me that she used to visit when it was open previously and was keen to make it a success again.

The fitting out isn’t quite complete yet, so there is a limited menu however that should be completed in the near future and the menu will adapt as things become easier. Leanne told me that she will also be offering take away food and drink, to enable passengers to eat and drink on their journey.

The buffet has been decorated with historic photos and information, so when you visit – not only will you enjoy the fare but also the history of the station.

As mentioned in my introduction, the other news is the opening of the information centre which DNP have opened in partnership with Network Rail and GWR.

The centre will provide visitors with important information about the park. I interviewed Pamela Woods about Dartmoor National Park’s involvement.

We hope that everyone will enjoy visiting both the buffet and the visitor centre.