The train journey to St Ives is one of the most scenic in Britain.
Enjoy spectacular views as the line sweeps along the coast past the golden sands of Hayle Towans and Carbis Bay before arriving in St Ives. Then head for the beach, explore the harbour or wander the shops and art galleries.
Travel tips:
The line starts at St Erth, the penultimate station on the main line between London Paddington and Penzance.
If arriving by car, use the Park & Ride at Lelant Saltings station (TR26 3DL). Parking is £2.80 for the day (pay by cash or mobile phone). You also need a train ticket (£4 adult Off-Peak Day Return) available from the ticket booth, or when the booth is unattended, from the guard on the train.
On sunny summer days the Park & Ride can get busy, so it’s best to park early if possible.
Tickets are great value. The Off-Peak Day Return from St Erth to St Ives is only £4. Get other fares and ticket-buying tips:
Plan your trip with our online journey planner, or download a St Ives Bay Line timetable. Trains run regularly throughout the day.
If you can, sit on the right hand side of the train when you get on at St Erth. The views out across the sea are fantastic!
It’s a short but spectacular line, with the journey taking under 15 minutes. Get a timetable or use the online journey planner.
St Ives is one of the most picturesque towns in Cornwall.
Set in breathtaking coastal scenery there’s always lots to do. Sunbathing, surfing, shopping, sampling some of the excellent restaurants – you decide!
Carbis Bay has a fantastic golden sandy beach which alone is a great reason to visit.
There is also a network of footpaths and access to the South West Coast Path, so it’s great for walkers as well as sun seekers.
St Erth station is at the start of the St Ives Bay Line as well as being on the mainline. The station has a lovely station buffet to enjoy whilst you wait for the train.
Parking
Parking at St Erth station is currently undergoing major re-development, so you are advised to instead head to the dedicated Park & Ride at Lelant Saltings (less than a mile away) and begin your trip on the St Ives Bay Line there instead.
Discover some great places to eat and drink along the line with the Rail Ale Trail.
Pubs with beamed ceilings, flagstone floors and a few locals with a story or two, there’s plenty to enjoy.
St Ives has four top quality beaches to explore – read more about each of them.
Artistic connections in St Ives date back to Victorian times when artists were attracted to the town for its special light. Explore the many artist’s studios scattered through the town or visit Tate St Ives.
A two-week annual festival full of great music, exhibitions, walks, talks, comedy, theatre, plays and poetry. There are over 300 events at this year’s festival.
Travel the line between St Erth and St Ives as much as you like for one day. Valid after the morning peak, and anytime weekends or Bank Holidays
Approximate journey time
