Your guide to visiting Devon and Cornwall by train in 2023

From glorious beaches, to moorland wilderness to riverside villages, Devon and Cornwall are packed with ‘must visit’ destinations to visit by train. Here are some of our favourites for 2023.

Destinations

ST IVES

St Ives is one of the most picturesque destinations in Cornwall. Best known for its beautiful sandy beaches, harbour and art galleries.

The train journey: The views on the 12-minute ride from St Erth to St Ives are fabulous with panoramas of the beautiful turquoise waters and sandy beaches.

THE TAMAR VALLEY

Visit one of Devon and Cornwall’s hidden gems. Take the scenic Tamar Valley Line from Plymouth to Calstock and explore this riverside village with its great pubs and woodland walk to the historic Cotehele House.

The train journey: Enjoy the rolling countryside, sleepy villages and tranquil river crossings – especially as you pass over Calstock Viaduct.

DARTMOOR

Discover Dartmoor’s rugged peaks, lush woodlands, rivers and waterfalls. Enjoy fantastic walks right from Okehampton station, or hire a bike on-site and ride the Granite Way to the village of Lydford.

The train journey: The Dartmoor Line reopened in November 2021 after nearly 50 years, connecting Okehampton, at the north tip of Dartmoor National Park, with the city of Exeter.

LOOE

A beautiful seaside town in South East Cornwall, Looe is known for its narrow streets, harbour, safe beaches and scenic coastal walks.

The train journey: The 30-minute trip on the Looe Valley Line winds its way through the wooded valley until the views open out over the estuary, great for spotting local bird life.

THE JURASSIC COAST

(via bus from Honitor and Axminster stations)

Visit the charming seaside towns of the Jurassic Coast in East Devon and West Dorset. Take a fossil hunting walk from Lyme Regis Museum, built on the site of Mary Anning’s birthplace, ride the heritage Seaton Tramway, or hit the beach to admire the glorious red cliffs.

The train journey: Take the train from London Waterloo to Axminster and Honiton stations, where buses depart right outside the station to the Jurassic Coast.

Tickets

Buy tickets on the GWR website or GWR app. For long distance journeys, book up to 12 weeks in advance for the best fares. Save a third on many journeys with a railcard.

Tickets for local journeys within Devon and Cornwall can be bought on the day and are great value (such as Exeter to Okehampton, £8 Off-Peak Day Return).

Sleeper train
Another fantastic option for travel to/from London is GWR’s Night Riviera Sleeper.

More to Explore

Walks from the railway

Rail Ale Trails

Foodie Guides

Beaches by train