Independent Rail Tour of England

Trip Overview…

Experience two of Cornwall’s most stunning seaside villages on this relaxing rail holiday. After taking a Great Western Railway service from London Paddington, you have the option of spending the afternoon in Penzance or transiting straight to St Ives. Check into your 4 Star hotel then you can begin to discover this spectacular Cornish beachside resort. Relax in this picturesque seaside town known for its golden beaches and quaint charm. Next, it’s off to Falmouth, well known for it’s fresh seafood, the mighty fortress of Pendennis Castle and a glorious old harbour and docks. The beauty of Cornwall awaits via the ease and comfort of the railways.

Package Includes

Highlights

  • Relax in the comfort of a First Class seat aboard a Great Western Railway service
  • Explore the coastal town of St Ives with it’s stunning views and beaches
  • Stroll around the harbour and visit Pendennis Castle in Falmouth

Optional inclusion:

  • Day trip to the historic St Michael’s Mount

Inclusions:

  • 3 nights 4 Star accommodation with breakfast in St Ives
  • 3 nights 4 Star accommodation with breakfast in Falmouth
  • All other rail travel as per itinerary in 1st Class where available
  • Walking tour of Falmouth
  • Admission to Pendennis Castle

At a glance

7 days
Departing May 24 – Feb 25
From AUD$
2699
pp
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Your Itinerary

Day 1 – GWR train to Cornwall

Depart London on a stunning journey to Cornwall and the South West coast. Enjoy the sights from a First Class seat aboard a Great Western Railway service. Choose to arrive into Penzance or transit straight to St Ives, the rest of the day is yours to explore this gorgeous coastal town.  3 night stay in St Ives 4 Star hotel.

Inclusions: First Class rail travel to St Ives
Overnight: St Ives

Day 2 – St Ives

After breakfast, stroll the white stunning Portminster Beach, admire the Godrevy Lighthouse, visit some of the the finest galleries in the UK and try out some of the many restaurants and cafes. 

Meals: Full Breakfast
Overnight: St Ives

St Ives^

Day 3 – Day of leisure or St Michael’s Mount day trip

After breakfast choose from an optional visit to Penzance and to the historic St. Michaels Mount.  If the tide is out walk across the causeway, or take a boat over to the island. An alternative trip can be taken to St Austell & Charlestown, a Georgian port and a regular filming location for Poldark, Dr Who and other TV and movie productions.  Otherwise, a coastal walk, boat trip to Seal Island or visit to Tate St Ives is all at easy reach.  A traditional pasty or creamy Cornish ice cream whilst taking in the stunning views is a perfect way to make for a memorable visit to this charming coastal town

Meals: Full Breakfast
Overnight: St Ives

St Michael’s Mount

Day 4 – Falmouth

Today the thriving town of Falmouth awaits. Famous for its creative buzz there are a plethora of galleries and artistic venues to wander around and enjoy. The town also has a fascinating maritime heritage with several boat trips to be taken from the pier and the quay.  Check into your 4 Star seafront hotel and enjoy the stunning views across to Pendennis Castle.

Meals: Full English Breakfast
Inclusions: Rail journey
Overnight: Falmouth

Falmouth

Day 5 – Falmouth

Today, discover the mighty fortress that is Pendennis Castle with included admission. Explore the stone staircases and turrets, then climb to the top of the keep to enjoy 360-degree panoramas across Falmouth. In the afternoon take a stroll along the Helford and Fal rivers and end the day in one of the beachside restaurants sampling some of the delicious seafood, for which this part of the world is so famous. 

Meals: Full English Breakfast
Inclusions: Admission to Pendennis Castle
Overnight: Falmouth

Gyllyngvase Beach Falmouth*

Day 6 – Falmouth

After breakfast, enjoy a morning walking tour with vibrant storytelling to connect visitors to the Falmouth of centuries past. The afternoon is yours to enjoy the charming town at leisure. The National Maritime Museum is sure to offer insights into the town’s seafaring past, while stunning gardens provide a peaceful retreat. And with an award-winning art gallery to explore, there’s plenty to indulge in for art enthusiasts. Falmouth’s blend of history, natural beauty, and cultural offerings indeed promises to make for a memorable stay. Enjoy your time exploring this captivating destination!

Meals: Full Breakfast
Inclusions: Walking tour
Overnight: Falmouth

Falmouth*

Day 7 – Your Journey Ends in London

After breakfast, take the Great Western Railway service back to London Paddington in First Class.  Enjoy the views through Devon, Somerset and Wiltshire countryside before arriving into London in the afternoon.  We would be happy to assist with post-tour accommodation.

Meals: Full Breakfast
Inclusions: First Class rail to London Paddington

London Paddington Station

Proposed accommodation in 4 star hotels located less than 10 minutes walk from arrival/departure railway station.

Prices are per person, sharing a double/twin room based on October 2024 departure. A single supplement applies for solo travellers provided on request.
Terms & Conditions apply.  Click to view
*Falmouth-harbour-VC-Adam-Gibbard
Exclusions:
Travel Insurance – we ask that our guests purchase suitable cover in case planned travel is affected or disrupted due to unforeseen circumstances
Flights – all tours are land only within the UK
Meals and/or sightseeing other than that outlined above.
^ Image Credit St Ives: Visit Cornwall Matt Jessop
*Image Credit Falmouth: Visit Cornwall Matt Jessop
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