Getting the Train to Cornwall | Stations, Routes & FAQs

Experience the allure of Cornwall, a captivating region in southwest England celebrated for its breathtaking coastline, sandy beaches, and charming coastal towns, all accessible via a scenic train journey. Travelling to Cornwall by rail offers a convenient and relaxing way to discover this coastal gem, whether you're drawn to outdoor adventures, cultural encounters, or simply unwinding by the sea. Below, we break down popular routes, all major train stations, and offer some ideas of what to check out whilst you're there.

Why visit Cornwall?

Cornwall is renowned for captivating its visitors with rugged cliffs, golden beaches, and turquoise waters, making it a paradise for beach lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. You can explore the iconic coastal paths and discover hidden coves and breathtaking viewpoints along the South West Coast Path. Visit picturesque towns like St Ives, Padstow, and Falmouth, each offering unique charm, art galleries, and local cuisine. For the history buffs, you can explore Cornwall's mining heritage at places like the Geevor Tin Mine or the famous St Michael's Mount, a tidal island topped with a medieval castle. With a mild climate and stunning scenery, Cornwall is the perfect destination for a relaxing getaway or an action-packed adventure.

Popular train stations in Cornwall

Penzance

Penzance station serves as a major transport hub for travelers arriving by train to Cornwall. Located near the southwestern tip of the county, Penzance offers connections to scenic coastal towns and attractions, including St Ives, Land's End, and the Minack Theatre. Explore Penzance itself, known for its promenade, art galleries, and historic Morrab Gardens. From Penzance, visitors can take a short journey to St Michael's Mount by boat or enjoy a scenic train ride to St Ives along the picturesque coastline.

Ideal for people visiting: Land's End, St Ives, Minack Theatre

St Ives

St Ives station is a convenient stop for visitors looking to explore this charming seaside town known for its artistic heritage and beautiful beaches. The station is located close to the town center, making it easy to access galleries like the Tate St Ives, showcasing modern art inspired by the local landscape. From St Ives, visitors can walk along the scenic coastal path to nearby beaches or take a boat trip to Seal Island to spot wildlife.

Ideal for people visiting: Tate St Ives, Seal Island

Newquay

Newquay station provides access to Cornwall's north coast and popular surfing beaches. Trains from destinations like Plymouth and Par stop at Newquay, where visitors can enjoy the vibrant beach atmosphere and explore attractions like the Blue Reef Aquarium and Newquay Zoo. The station is within walking distance of Fistral Beach, renowned for its surfing competitions and golden sands.

Ideal for people visiting: Fistral Beach, Blue Reef Aquarium, Newquay Zoo

Truro

Truro station is the main railway station in Cornwall, located in the heart of the county. Discover Truro's historic cathedral, browse the Victorian architecture along Lemon Street, or explore the Royal Cornwall Museum showcasing local history and art. Truro offers connections to nearby attractions such as the Lost Gardens of Heligan and the maritime town of Falmouth, known for its harbor and maritime museum.

Ideal for people visiting: Truro Cathedral, Royal Cornwall Museum, Falmouth

Falmouth

Falmouth station is situated near the bustling harbor of Falmouth, making it a convenient base for exploring this historic maritime town. Visit the National Maritime Museum Cornwall to learn about Cornwall's maritime heritage or take a boat trip along the Fal River to St Mawes or Truro. Explore Falmouth's charming streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and art galleries, or relax on Gyllyngvase Beach with stunning views across Falmouth Bay.

Ideal for people visiting: National Maritime Museum Cornwall, St Mawes, Gyllyngvase Beach

Popular train routes to Cornwall

London Paddington to Penzance

Departing from London Paddington, travelers can enjoy a scenic train journey to Penzance, passing through picturesque countryside and coastal areas.

Bristol Temple Meads to St Ives

Travelers from Bristol can take a direct train to St Ives, passing through scenic landscapes and coastal towns.

Plymouth to Newquay

Departing from Plymouth, travelers can catch a train to Newquay, a popular destination on Cornwall's north coast.

Exeter St Davids to Truro

Travelers from Exeter can take a train to Truro, the main railway station in Cornwall. Trains from Exeter offer scenic views of the countryside en route to Cornwall. Journey time: Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours. Earliest departure: Around 06:00. Latest departure: Around 22:00.

Reading to St Austell

Departing from Reading, travelers can take a train to St Austell, a gateway to Cornwall's attractions including the Eden Project and Charlestown.

What to do in Cornwall

Visit the locals: Explore the picturesque towns of St Ives, Padstow, and Falmouth, each offering its own unique charm and attractions. St Ives, renowned for its artistic heritage, boasts stunning beaches, such as Porthminster and Porthmeor, where you can relax or take part in surfing lessons. Also, make sure you don't miss the Tate St Ives, showcasing works inspired by the area's natural beauty. In Padstow, indulge in culinary delights at Rick Stein's famous seafood restaurant or take a ferry to Rock for scenic views of the Camel Estuary. Falmouth, a historic maritime town, invites you to explore its bustling harbor, visit the National Maritime Museum, or take a boat trip to the picturesque village of St Mawes.

Learn the history: You can also delve into Cornwall's rich heritage, from its ancient mining legacy to its medieval castles and myths. Explore the ruins of Tintagel Castle, steeped in Arthurian legend, and marvel at the architectural wonders of St Michael's Mount, a tidal island topped with a medieval castle and gardens. Geevor Tin Mine offers insights into Cornwall's industrial past and the Minack Theatre is an open-air amphitheater perched on the cliffs above Porthcurno which shouldn’t be missed.

Escape to nature: Cornwall's stunning coastline and natural landscapes provide endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. Hike along the rugged cliffs of the South West Coast Path, which stretches over 600 miles, dotted with hidden coves and panoramic viewpoints; explore the Eden Project, a remarkable botanical garden housed in futuristic biomes where you can learn about sustainability; or unwind on the sandy shores of beaches like Fistral Beach in Newquay or Kynance Cove on the Lizard Peninsula. Birdwatchers can also spot diverse seabirds at the Lizard Point, while wildlife enthusiasts can visit the Isles of Scilly for unique flora and fauna.