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South West

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

Discover the beauty of South West England by train, where every journey offers breathtaking views and unforgettable experiences. From lush countryside and golden beaches to dramatic coastal scenery, this region is a paradise for rail explorers.

There’s nothing quite like spotting the sparkling sea from your train window – and the South West delivers plenty of chances to do just that. Ride the St Ives Bay Line for stunning ocean vistas, wander through the charming fishing town of Looe, or soak up the maritime atmosphere around Falmouth’s historic harbour. Many railway lines here hug the coastline, giving you unrivalled views throughout your trip.

Head inland to uncover the Wiltshire countryside, home to the iconic White Horses carved into the hillsides. Step back in time with a historic journey on the Swanage Railway, nestled within the Dorset National Landscape, or venture to the nearby Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site for awe-inspiring natural wonders.

From the artistic energy of Bristol to the rolling hills of Somerset, the South West is packed with destinations that promise culture, history, and scenic beauty.

South West

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

Atlantic Coast Line

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

Avocet Line

Exeter St Davids – Exmouth

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

Days out by train along Blackmore Vale Line

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

Heart of Wessex Line

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

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.

Lymington town centre | Lymington to Brockenhurst

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.

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

Maritime Line

Truro – Falmouth

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

Caslte-like building in Dorchester, along the Purbeck Line

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

Riviera Line

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

Severn Beach Line

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

Severn Shores 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.

Station connection to Mottisfont Abbey

Southampton to Salisbury

Southampton Central – Salisbury

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

GWR train on the St Ives Bay Line

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.

Great walks from Calstock station

Tamar Valley Line

Plymouth – Gunnislake

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

Train on Black Bridge near Umberleigh on the Tarka Line

Tarka Line

Exeter Central – Barnstaple

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

Travelling along the TransWilts Line

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.

Find your next journey

Not sure where to go? Simply tell us your interests and we’ll highlight a few scenic routes on our interactive map for you to browse. Let us help you find your next journey by clicking the button below to get started.

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The Bentham Line

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Explore the beautiful Bentham Line, nestled in scenic Yorkshire & Lancashire countryside.

Start planning your trip

Ready to start planning for your trip? We’ve got some helpful tips and advice to get you started. We’ve also collated links to some of our partners’ journey planning tools to help you prepare for your next car-free journey.