Independent Rail Tour of England
Your Itinerary
Traveling by train allows you to relax and enjoy the scenic beauty of the West Country while avoiding the hassle of driving. It’s a convenient and enjoyable way to explore this part of England’s coastline.
DAY 1 – Depart London to Devon
Upon activating your rail pass, you’ll embark on a delightful journey from London Paddington Station aboard a Great Western Railway service bound for Paignton, Devon. As you settle into the First Class carriage, you’ll be treated to stunning scenery rolling past your window, offering glimpses of the charming English countryside.
After arriving in Paignton, make your way to your 4-star seafront hotel where you’ll check in and settle into your comfortable room. Located less than 10 minutes walk from Paignton’s pier and harbour, your hotel offers easy access to the sights and sounds of the English Riviera.
2 nights Paignton
Overnight: Paignton town centre accommodation
Inclusions: First Class rail pass
Rail travel: 3 hrs

DAY 2 – Paignton, Dartmouth & Totnes
Discover the very best of South Devon with this iconic and much-loved tour. Journey by heritage steam train, river boat, and open-top bus as you explore the charming towns of Paignton, Dartmouth, and Totnes. This is the ultimate way to experience the English Riviera.
Before the day draws to a close, be sure to indulge in an iconic Devonshire Tea, a quintessential experience on the English Riviera. Treat yourself to freshly baked scones served with clotted cream and jam, accompanied by a pot of tea, while soaking in the ambiance of Paignton’s charming cafes . End the day with a stroll along the promonade – what a perfect way to end your stay in this picturesque seaside town.
2 nights Paignton
Overnight: Paignton town centre accommodation
Meals: Full English Breakfast
Inclusions: Dartmouth Steam Railway & River Boat ticket

Devonshire Tea*
DAY 3 – Paignton to Falmouth
2 nights Falmouth
Overnight: Falmouth town centre accommodation
Meals: Full English Breakfast
Inclusions: First Class rail pass
Rail travel: 3 hrs 15 mins

Falmouth*
DAY 4 – Falmouth
2 nights Falmouth
Overnight: Falmouth town centre accommodation
Meals: Full English Breakfast
Inclusions: Pendennis Castle admission

Falmouth*
DAY 5 – St Ives
3 nights St Ives
Overnight: St Ives town centre accommodation
Meals: Full English Breakfast
Rail travel: 1 hr 45 mins

St Ives*
DAY 6 – Optional day trip to Penzance
3 nights St Ives
Overnight: St Ives town centre accommodation
Meals: Full English Breakfast

St Michael’s Mount*
DAY 7 – St Ives at leisure or optional day trip to St Austell & Charlestown
Overnight: St Ives town centre accommodation
Meals: Full English breakfast

St Ives*
DAY 8 – St Ives to Plymouth

Plymouth
DAY 9 – Plymouth to Bath Spa

Pulteney Bridge, Bath
DAY 10 – Bath at leisure
Today you have admission included to the Roman Baths which is perhaps the most famous attraction in the city. These ancient baths are remarkably well-preserved and provide a glimpse into Roman life and engineering. Visitors can see the steaming pool of the Great Bath, fed by natural hot springs, and explore the museum which houses artifacts from the Roman period.
Afterwards, discover Bath at your own pace. A city steeped in history and culture which boasts an array of must-see attractions:
Bath Abbey located near the Roman Baths, is a stunning example of Gothic architecture. It has been a place of Christian worship for over a thousand years and is known for its magnificent fan vaulting, beautiful stained glass windows, and the Abbey tower, which offers panoramic views of the city.
The Royal Crescent is one of the most iconic examples of Georgian architecture in the UK. This sweeping crescent of 30 terraced houses set against a large green lawn is a breathtaking sight. No. 1 Royal Crescent is now a museum, furnished in the period style, offering a glimpse into the life of the Georgian upper class.
Pulteney Bridge inspired by the Ponte Vecchio in Florence, Italy, is one of the few bridges in the world lined with shops on both sides. It offers picturesque views of the River Avon and is a favorite spot for photographers.
Thermae Bath Spa allows visitors to bathe in Britain’s only naturally warm, mineral-rich waters, just as the Romans did over 2,000 years ago. The spa’s rooftop pool offers stunning views of the cityscape.
3 nights Bath
Overnight: Bath city centre accommodation
Meals: Full English Breakfast
Inclusions: Admission to Roman Baths

Roman Baths
DAY 11 – Cotwolds Day Tour
Embarking on a full-day escorted tour to the Cotswolds is a wonderful way to experience the quintessential English countryside and immerse yourself in its timeless beauty. Depending on your tour day you can expect to visit various Cotswolds villages including Castle Combe, Bibury, Bourton on the Water and Stow on the Wold. Based on the tour itinerary, you may have the chance to visit iconic landmarks such as Stonehenge or Avebury Stone Circle, both of which hold significant historical and cultural importance. This guided tour offers a glimpse into the heart and soul of the Cotswolds, leaving you with cherished memories of this quintessentially English destination.
3 nights Bath
Overnight: Bath city centre accommodation
Meals: Full English Breakfast
Inclusions: Full day escorted tour

Bibury Village, Cotswolds
DAY 12 – Bath to London
After a final breakfast, bid farewell to England’s West Country and board the direct train back to London Paddington. Your First Class rail pass provides a travel day to return to London or onto further destinations. Our agency can assist with post-tour accommodation and onward travel bookings.
Meals: Full English Breakfast
Inclusions: First Class rail pass
Rail travel: 1 hr 20 mins

Tower Bridge, London
Proposed accommodation in 4 star hotels or boutique B&Bs located less than 10 minutes walk from arrival/departure railway station.