18th January, 2024

7 cosy pubs on Devon & Cornwall’s branch lines

This article is more than 6 months old.

There’s nothing better on a cold blustery day than cosying up in front of a roaring fire in a traditional country pub. Here are seven of our favourites that you can visit by train and have a tipple without the worry of needing to drive.


1. The Olde Plough, Bere Ferrers

Set at the heart of the picturesque riverside village of Bere Ferrers, the pub has a warm and cosy feel with open fires and flagstone floors. Real ales are from Tamar Valley breweries and the menu showcases local produce too.

Train journey: Plymouth to Bere Ferrers (17 mins)

Station to pub: 10 min walk

Pub Website | Train times


2. The Famous Barrel, Penryn

This characterful pub is hidden away at the bottom of the town but is well worth seeking out. The bar is very traditional with low beams and a huge open fire.

Station to pub: 12 min walk

Train journey: Truro to Penryn (13 min)

Pub Facebook page | Train times


3. The Tamar Inn, Calstock

Historic 17th century pub in the heart of Calstock, right beside the river Tamar with views of the impressive Calstock viaduct. The pub offers a wide range of home-cooked food as well as local real ales.

Train journey: Plymouth to Calstock (33 mins)

Station to pub: 5 min walk

Pub website | Train times


4. The Two Clomes, Quintrell Downs

This 18th century pub (pictured at the top of this blog post) is named after two fireside ovens either side of the large fireplace which now houses a large wood burner, ideal for warming up on a chilly day.

Train journey: Par to Quintrell Downs (40 mins)

Station to pub: 8 min walk

Pub Facebook page | Train times


5. The Jolly Sailor, West Looe

Situated over the bridge in West Looe, the Jolly Sailor is one of the oldest pubs in the county, dating back to 1516. The pub is full of character with open fires, beams and low ceilings.

Train journey: Liskeard to Looe (30 mins)

Station to pub: 12 min walk

Pub website | Train times


6. The Rising Sun, Umberleigh

This traditional country pub is brimming with character and is just a short walk from Umberleigh station. Enjoy a drink in the bar in front of the fire or a meal from their seasonal menu.

Train journey: Exeter to Umberleigh (1 hour)

Station to pub: 3 min walk

Pub Facebook page | Train times


7. The Union Inn, St Ives


This pub in the heart of St Ives is warm and friendly with walls adorned with old photographs of the harbour and its activities in days gone by. The pub is dog friendly (as is the train) and serves traditional pub food.

Train journey: St Erth – St Ives (10 min)

Station to pub: 10 min walk

Pub Facebook page | Train times


For more information on lots of other pubs easily accessible by train, visit the Rail Ale Trail section of our website.

Train times and tickets

Look up train times and buy rail tickets on the GWR website or app.

Save a third off the adult fare for you and a friend (with kids travelling for just £1) with a Devon & Cornwall Railcard – just £12 a year for local residents. Now available to buy online.

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