30th May, 2025

5 South West Coast Path walks from railway stations

With The Salt Path out in cinemas today, here are five of our favourite coast path walks from stations in Devon and Cornwall.

1. Looe to Polperro

5.5 miles

Take the scenic Looe Valley Line from Liskeard to Looe, then walk the South West Coast Path to Polperro. Return to Looe on the 73 or 10 bus from Polperro.


2. Falmouth ‘three beaches’ walks

3 miles

A scenic 3-mile walk from Penmere station via three of Falmouth’s beaches, with great views out to sea and of Pendennis Castle. Finishes at Falmouth Docks station.


3. Teignmouth to Dawlish

3.5 miles

Photos of walk along Teignmouth seawall, beach at Smugglers Cove and gardens at Dawlish

Walk the famous seawall, ascend to Holcombe for great views, then arrive into Dawlish and see if you can glimpse the town’s iconic black swans.


4. Newquay to Fistral Beach

5 miles (circular)

Newquay walk collage

Hop on the train to Newquay for a 5-mile circular walk from the station taking in the harbour, Huer’s Hut and the famous Fistral Beach.


5. Barnstaple – Tarka Trail

8.5 miles (to Home Farm Marsh and back)

Collage - Barnstaple station, Home Farm Marsh and Tarka Trail

Walk the Tarka Trail / South West Coast Path from Barnstaple station, enjoying the views of the Taw estuary. Head as far as Home Farm Marsh (note: no dogs or bikes allowed) to enjoy the views and try your luck at their bird hides.


Train times & tickets

Look up train times and buy tickets on the GWR website and mobile app. If you live locally, a Devon & Cornwall Railcard (just £12 a year) is a great way to save a third for you and a friend on local journeys. And you can bring up to four kids along for just £1 each!


More great walks

Head over to our Walks homepage for even more walks from stations across Devon and Cornwall:

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