5 Scenic Train Trips to Cornwall You Won’t Want to Miss This Year

Environment 17 April 2023 By

With gorgeous beaches that tumble into the Atlantic Ocean, captivating fishing villages filled with culinary delights, it’s rolling hills and natural wilderness, Cornwall might be the UK’s most beautiful county. 

Many Britons have lifelong, happy memories of summers spent in Cornwall; childhood seaside holidays spent meandering through dunes, and the rich smells of fish & chips enjoyed by the sea with family and friends.  

Those memories await to be reawakened with Cornwall’s beautiful rail lines, offering rides to hidden beaches and scenic routes through the untouched countryside. When travelling to Cornwall by rail, you can sit back, relax, and take in the sights of Great Britain’s natural treasures in the comfort and ease of the train. 

Sometimes getting there is the best part of the journey, and with the Senior Railcard, you can save 1/3 of your train travel. Eligible for those ages 60 and over, your Railcard can be used on advanced bookings and even First-Class tickets.

First-class carriages offer comfort and space, often with larger tables, reclining seats, and sometimes complimentary food and drink, newspapers, and other perks. Plan and travel in style in first class, arriving rested and ready to enjoy beautiful Cornwall.  

Whether visiting family and friends or on a weekend of relaxation, save money for the many boutiques, cafes, attractions, and heritage sites that Cornwall has to offer, and make some new memories along the way with your Senior Railcard. For more information on how to get your Railcard today, visit here.  

Five favourite rail routes in Cornwall are waiting to be discovered with your Senior Railcard this year

The St Ives Bay Line  

Jump on the train between St Erth and St Ives for endless ocean views and visit one of Cornwall’s prettiest towns. 

The St Ives Bay Line trundles between the famous artsy village of the same name and St Erth, hugging the coastline for most of this short journey. Travellers tend to start at St Erth, finishing with a day at St Ives – just be sure to sit on the right-hand side of the carriage for the best views.  

At St Ives, swim on one of its 3 beaches, stroll through its cobbled centre, browse some of its many stunning boutiques, or take in some culture at the Tate St Ives art gallery. 

Stations: St Ives, St Erth 

The Maritime Line 

Connecting the charming city of Truro with coastal Falmouth, this short line rolls through Cornwall’s green countryside for 25 peaceful minutes. Highlights of the journey include pretty Penryn – an ancient market town filled with Tudor history – and chugging over the old viaduct into Falmouth. 

Start your day with some retail therapy, browsing the independent shops and cafes of Truro’s historic centre. Be sure to visit the cathedral, a Gothic masterpiece which affords little Truro its city status. 

Finish your day with a dip in the sea at Falmouth, before tucking into some famously good fish and chips at Harbour Lights Fish & Chips. 

Stations: Truro, Falmouth Docks 

The Atlantic CoastLine 

From the green woods of the Luxulyan Valley to the wild waves of the Atlantic, this scenic rail journey is among Cornwall’s most popular. 

The journey takes just over 2 hours, starting at the quiet fishing village of Par and ending in the lively resort town of Newquay – two very different sides of this stunning county in one trip. 

One of the best places to visit in Cornwall by train, Newquay, is packed with fun things to see and do. Sandy beaches, classic arcades, and plenty of evening entertainment for people of all ages. 

Stations: Newquay, Par 

The Looe Valley Line  

Trace the serene banks of the Looe Valley on one of the shortest train trips in Cornwall. The whole journey takes less than one hour, but packs in plenty between Liskeard and Looe on the coast. 

The trip begins in Liskeard, surrounded by dense woods and farm-blanketed hills. Wildlife here, with birds such as curlews, oystercatchers, and herons never too far from your train window, is a delight for keen birdwatchers. 

As the train pulls into Looe, the river’s estuary opens into widescreen sea views and Caribbean-style beaches. Looe Beach is a popular destination sheltered by a long banjo pier.  

Stations: Liskeard, Looe 

Penzance 

Catch the train to the edge of Great Britain with a rail ride to Penzance. The town is the closest rail station to Land’s End – which you can reach by bus from Penzance – a clifftop landmark surrounded by remote beaches and some of Cornwall’s most rugged coastline. 

In Penzance, you’ll find a much more relaxed Cornish town, not yet overrun by mass tourism. Take some time to visit Penlee House, a small gallery showcasing works linked to the county. 

Station: Penzance 

As well as saving 1/3 off your train tickets, here are some other great offers available when you travel by rail.  Visit here to find out more:

  • Virgin wines: £50 to spend at Virgin Wines plus free delivery & free glasses worth £18.
  • Class Pass: Try ClassPass for one month free, and get 25 credits to book yoga, pilates classes, and much more for every fitness level at top-rated studios and gyms near you.
  • Cottages.com:  Save 5% on a cottages.com booking with your Senior Railcard.
  • Railcard Theatre Tickets: Save up to 50% off theatre tickets and gain access to Railcard’s exclusive theatre offers.
  • Haven Holidays: Save up to £50 on top of Haven’s best public prices with your Railcard.