This winter sees the biggest timetable change on the Great Western Railway network since 1976, bringing faster, more frequent services with thousands more seats across the region.
Around three quarters of journey times will be different from how they are today as GWR add new services and change old ones as part of the improvements. Find out more.
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 new Park & Ride at St Erth station (TR27 6JW).
(Note: the old Lelant Saltings P&R is now closed.)
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.
This winter sees the biggest timetable change on the Great Western Railway network since 1976, bringing faster, more frequent services with thousands more seats across the region.
Around three quarters of journey times will be different from how they are today as GWR add new services and change old ones as part of the improvements. Find out more.
St Erth station is the Park & Ride for the scenic St Ives Bay Line.
Arrive by train on the Cornish main line (St Erth is the last stop before Penzance) or park your car at the station:
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.
Off-Peak Day Return. Valid after the morning peak, and anytime weekends or Bank Holidays.
Approximate journey time
