Train travelling over viaduct with sailboats in background
Coastal train trip with thhe beautiful blue sea in the background

Image credit: Mark Lynam

GWR train travelling across viaduct with blue sky

South West

Explore South West England by train and discover lush countryside, golden beaches and unrivalled scenic views.

There’s nothing quite like seeing the sea from your train window, and the South West gives plenty of opportunities to do just that. Marvel at the views from the St Ives Bay Line, explore the charming fishing town of Looe, walk around Falmouth’s harbour and travel along railway lines that hug the coast.

Head inland and explore the Wiltshire countryside, looking out for the iconic White Horses etched into the hills. Take a historic ride along the Swanage Railway, situated within the Dorset National Landscape or explore the nearby Jurassic Coast World Heritage site.

From the artistic soul of Bristol to the picturesque rolling landscapes of Somerset there’s plenty to experience in the South West. The hardest part will be deciding where to explore first.

South West

Explore South West England by train and discover lush countryside, golden beaches and unrivalled scenic views.

GWR train passing over viaduct with blue sky in background along the Atlantic Coast Line to Newquay by train

Par – Newquay

Take the train to the coast and experience Newquay, one of Britain’s top seaside destinations.

Train travelling along Avocet Line with people walking at the side

Exeter St Davids – Exmouth

Take a trip along the stunning Exe Estuary on the Avocet Line.

Days out by train along Blackmore Vale Line

Tisbury – Crewkerne

Relax and enjoy the scenic route between Tisbury and Crewkerne as the train travels along the Blackmore Vale Line.

South Wessex train travelling through English countryside

Bristol Temple Meads – Weymouth

This 87 mile route takes you through four counties from Bristol, a buzzing creatively spirited city with a rich maritime history to the seaside town of Weymouth, on the Jurassic Coast.

GWR train on the Looe Valley Line

Liskeard – Looe

Take a journey though a picturesque wooden valley and watch the scenery change as you emerge next to the scenic East Looe River on your way to the fishing town of Looe.

Train on Collegewood Viaduct on the Maritime Line between Truro and Falmouth

Truro – Falmouth

The Maritime Line links the bustling Cathedral city of Truro with the harbour port of Falmouth.

Travelling along the TransWilts Line

Swindon – Salisbury

Explore this historic line as it meanders through the beautiful scenery of Wiltshire, bound for Westbury and its iconic White Horse.

Train on Black Bridge near Umberleigh on the Tarka Line

Exeter Central – Barnstaple

Explore scenic north Devon on the Tarka Line for a real taste of the great British countryside.

Great walks from Calstock station

Plymouth – Gunnislake

Take a trip into the picturesque Tamar Valley - with great views from Calstock Viaduct.

Caslte-like building in Dorchester, along the Purbeck Line

Wareham – Swanage

Explore the beautifully unspoilt and varied countryside along the Purbeck Line.

Cross Country train on the sea wall approaching Dawlish station

Exeter Central – Paignton

One of England's best-loved stretches of railway - the Riviera Line hugs the coast, providing spectacualr views from the train.

Bristol Clifton Suspension Bridge

Bristol Temple Meads – Severn Beach

Featuring diverse scenery, from cityscapes to historical landmarks and countryside views, there's lots to see on the Severn Beach Line.

Severn Shores train line

Cheltenham Spa – Newport

The route of the Severn Shores Line skirts the western shore of the Severn Estuary, with breath-taking views of the River Severn.

GWR train on the St Ives Bay Line

St Erth – St Ives

Considered one of the most beautiful routes in Britain, you need to experience the St Ives Bay Line for yourself.

Station connection to Mottisfont Abbey

Southampton Central – Salisbury

From maritime to medieval, explore the picturesque Southampton to Salisbury line.

Lymington town centre | Lymington to Brockenhurst

Lymington Pier – Brockenhurst

Take the short journey from the coastal town of Lymington to Brockenhurst, the largest village in the New Forest National Park.

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