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Scenic Train Journeys
Newquay station is conveniently located in the heart of the town, making it a great starting point for scenic rail journeys across Cornwall.
Departing from Newquay, the train crosses Goss Moor and onwards through the beautiful Luxulyan Valley. Get off at Luxulyan station to explore the wooded valley and its mining heritage, or to enjoy a walk to the Eden Project (3 miles).
The Newquay branch line brings you to Par station on the Cornish main line. Change here and head west to visit St Ives, Truro or Falmouth, or east to Looe, Plymouth or on into Devon. Particular highlights include:
St Ives Bay Line
The journey as you arrive into St Ives is one of the most scenic in Britain. The train sweeps along the coast past the golden sands of Hayle Towans and Carbis Bay before arriving at St Ives station, right next to the gorgeous Porthminster Beach, just a few minutes’ walk from town. Once you’ve hit the beach, explore the harbour or wander the shops and art galleries.
Plymouth Tamar River Line
Visit the city’s historic waterfront. On the Hoe, admire the iconic Smeaton’s Tower lighthouse and imagine Francis Drake taking in the same views of Plymouth Sound as he looked out on the Armada. Take a dip in the Tinside Lido, explore the National Marine Aquarium or take a tour of the Plymouth Gin Distillery.
Looe Valley Line
The branch line to Looe is full of beautiful views out of the train window. The wooded valley teeming with wildlife opens up to glorious estuary views as the river meets the sea. Bird watchers will love this line as, especially at low tide, the river is full of wading birds such as Little Egrets, Grey Herons, Oystercatchers and Curlews. Once in Looe, there’s plenty to explore from the harbour to the safe beaches, the excellent restaurants to the maze of narrow streets full of lovely independent shops and pubs.
Find out more about all of these journeys and more at www.greatscenicrailways.co.uk. Look up train times and buy tickets at www.gwr.com, on the GWR app, or by calling 03457 000 125.