Trains to Cornwall

The beauty of Cornwall is not confined to the summertime. At Christmas, enjoy windswept beach walks without the crowds before retiring to a cosy pub away from the elements. Head to Truro for its Christmas Market and choose from local food, drink, art, and crafts. For a totally different festive experience, enjoy the magic of Heligan Night Garden.

Cornwall has a strong industrial history. Its mining landscape – which you can learn more about at Geevor Tin Mine Museum – is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You’ll find ancient stone circles and remains of Iron Age villages between Land’s End and Penzance, and Celtic crosses dotted across the countryside. Cornwall is a hub of creativity with Tate St Ives and the Barbara Hepworth Sculpture Garden a must see in St Ives. Also, St Agnes, Falmouth and Penzance are home to several must-see galleries.

Explore the iconic castle and beautiful gardens of St. Michael’s Mount. The Lizard is the most southerly point in the UK, with stunning white sand beaches and turquoise waters, while the Eden Project boasts the world’s largest indoor rainforest. Head to the Minack Theatre to enjoy outdoor theatre in the most dramatic setting imaginable, while the Lost Gardens of Heligan makes for a great day out for all the family.

If it’s pasties and cream teas you want, Cornwall won’t disappoint. But the region’s food and drink scene has much more to offer. British celebrity chefs like Rick Stein have taken advantage of the fantastic local produce – Rick has restaurants in Padstow, Falmouth and Newquay. Wherever you are in the county, you'll find country pubs serving hearty local food and Cornish ale and cider.

Cornwall’s dramatic landscape is ideal for adventure activities. It’s one of the best places in the country for surfing and you’ll find a surf school on most of the big beaches. The steep cliff sides and expanses of open space are ideal for coasteering – a combination of rock climbing, swimming and cliff jumping – but if you fancy something a bit more relaxing, head to Looe and try some of the South West Coast Path to Polperro or a bit of bird watching. The Camel Trail also provides access to the beautiful Cornish countryside along a disused railway line between Wenfordbridge, Bodmin, Wadebridge and Padstow. Hire bikes and enjoy a great day out for all the family.

Cornwall is famous for peace and tranquillity, but it knows how to party too. Newquay is the place to be if you want a big night out, and the student town of Falmouth also has plenty to offer. But you’ll find lively pubs – including some with live music and evening entertainment – across the region.

Shop for crafts and local produce at the many independent shops and markets across the region. St Ives is a must for art lovers, antique hunters should try Lostwithiel, and Falmouth has an unbeatable selection of arty boutiques. Truro is your best bet for bigger retailers.