When Was The First Railway Buffet Car Built?

The first railway buffet car was built in 1899 for the London leg of the Manchester, Sheffield and Lincolnshire Railway. The more widespread introduction of buffet cars did not take off until the 1930s. Until then trains would have restaurant cars only. Light snacks and refreshments could only be obtained by hopping off and visiting station café's en route. They usually provided hot water for teas and coffees and cold snacks such as cakes and pies. Some were equipped with a gas ring which was used for hating up soups as well as boiling kettles. They became popular for charging lower prices than restaurant cars making them more accessible to less well-off passengers.