Nestling in the peaceful West Devon Countryside, but just one mile from the main A30, is Dingles Steam Village, a unique example of steam heritage at work, which started from Richard's, the owner, interest in the history of R. Dingle & Sons, the premier supplier of steam and later modern road making equipment. Many of the exhibits were sold by his father in the 50's and 60's for £100 and bought back for many thousands and then rebuilt.

Major boiler rebuilds and mechanical restoration is carried out on site in a large well equipped workshop, run by the Village's engineer Clive Gibbard, who also has his own Burrell Showman's Engine 'Rajah' which is also on display. The workshop cannot be part of the normal visit for health and safety reasons but can be viewed by prior arrangement. There are about 20 traction engines and steam rollers on site although many go to other shows all over the country. Industrial engines also form an important part of the exhibition and these and two road engines are in steam every open day powered by a diesel fired industrial boiler we call 'Bertie'.

In 1964 all county councils were ordered to replace their signs with standard ones throughout the country. Many early signs were very individual to the district and most were scrapped. However Stuart Hands collected boundary signs from most English Councils and many signpost arms and top finials all with their own character, to make this unique display. Several early warning signs are also included and some seem clearer than those used today. The collection is still growing and further items are always welcome.

Dragons, seahorses, mythological figures and racing cars - the fairground decorator's imagination runs riot in a colourful display of fairground art at Dingles Steam Village.

The Fairground Heritage Trust is a charity which is committed to saving, conserving and sharing historic fairground equipment. It owns a substantial collection of national importance, part of which is currently on show at Dingles Steam Village in Devon. We also loan objects to other museums and touring exhibitions when possible.

The cafeteria is open all day for coffee, lunches and cream teas, and is housed in a beautifully converted barn, full of character, along with a gift shop and award winning toilets. The attraction is less than a mile off the main A30 dual carriageway west of Okehampton, with excellent access for coaches.

Opening Times

Open All Year

2008 01/01/2008

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