Cornwall isn’t just about beautiful beaches, stunning coastlines, and picturesque countryside, it’s also home to some wonderfully nostalgic train attractions, from charming heritage railways to scenic train journeys and fun-filled train rides the kids will love. We’ve picked just a few of our holiday cottages that are perfectly placed nearby, making it easy to enjoy these unique experiences during your stay.
Spring Cottage, Crantock
Sleeps: 6
Best for: A family day out at Lappa Valley Steam Railway
Lappa Valley Steam Railway is home to an array of fun-filled things to do, from the nostalgic steam railway to miniature train rides, a picturesque boating lake with giant pedalos, an adventure golf course, woodland walks, multi-level soft play, an outdoor play park and family friendly cafe. Located in a scenic spot amongst the Cornish countryside, not far from Newquay. A short drive from Lappa Valley is Spring Cottage, an enchanting escape in the quintessential Cornish village of Crantock. This stylish cottage is a short walk from the beach, where the tidal estuary makes it popular with families, where you can while away the hours paddling in the shallows. You’ll also find not one but two village pubs and a delightful cafe/pizzeria a short five-minute stroll away. With an enclosed garden, woodburner, and freestanding bath, it is perfect for a relaxing getaway that both grown-ups and little ones will love.
Atlantic View- Hawkes Point, Carbis Bay
Sleeps: 4
Best for: Trainspotting with a view!
Get a front row seat to one of Cornwall’s most scenic train journeys. The iconic St Ives Bay Line runs between St Ives and Carbis Bay, offering breathtaking coastal views along the way. From the comfort of Atlantic View, Hawkes Point, you can watch the train glide by at a leisurely pace, and if you give the driver a wave, you might even get a toot in return, something the little kids (and big kids) are sure to love. Just a ten-minute stroll from Carbis Bay train station, where you can hop on the train to St Ives and experience this one-of-a-kind train ride for yourself! Alternatively, set off along the coast path and take in the stunning views on foot, and be in St Ives in around 30 minutes. The neighbouring properties Dolphin Watch, Hawkes Point (sleeps 4) and The Lookout, Hawkes Point (sleeps 6), boast the same mesmerising views, perfect for families and friends travelling together!
Morvoren, Newquay
Sleeps: 6
Best for: A miniature train ride!
Set within Trenance Leisure Park in Newquay, the Little Western Railway is a beloved miniature train ride that little train lovers will adore. The circular track goes across two bridges and through a tunnel, with passersby waving as you go round. At just £1.50 per person, it is also a wallet-friendly ride that won’t break the bank! Plus, you’ll find an outdoor play park and cafe just a stone's throw from the platform, as well as Trenance Boating Lake and Newquay Zoo nearby! Stroll around the beautiful gardens, hire a rowing boat and enjoy a leisurely day out. A short fifteen-minute walk (or two-minute drive) from Trenance is Morvoren, a stylish townhouse with sea views in the heart of Newquay. Just across the road from the coast path and a few minutes' stroll to Tolcarne beach. Morvoren has all the mod cons you need, and the spacious living area, additional living room with games for the kids and three bathrooms mean there’s room for everyone to relax.
Morvoren is also a short walk into Newquay's bustling town centre, where you’ll find an array of shops and places to eat and drink – all with the backdrop of the Atlantic Ocean.
The Cowshed, Helston
Sleeps: 4
Best for: A nostalgic trip on Helston Railway
The most southerly railway in the UK, Helston Railway, is home to steam and diesel locomotives, offering a nostalgic journey through Cornwall's beautiful countryside. This heritage railway has been lovingly restored by volunteers, breathing new life into a once-disused branch line, and is being continually extended, retracing the original route. Take a picturesque journey through this historic corner of Cornwall, each offering a glimpse into the region's rich history and natural beauty. Special events, themed rides, and seasonal excursions make every trip unique, whether you’re a railway enthusiast or want to see Cornwall’s landscapes from a different perspective!
Nestled in the countryside not far from the old rail line, The Cowshed is a relaxing place to stay away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. While away the hours soaking up the sights and sounds of nature, before enjoying a relaxing train ride through the countryside, in a traditional carriage complete with plush velvet seats.
2 Waves, Perranporth
Sleeps: 8
Best for: Walking Perranporth's old branch line
Go back in time and walk the historic old branch line in Perranporth. A woodland walk that takes you on the route of the old train line that ran through the coastal village on the Truro to Newquay line. At around 3 miles, this scenic walk takes you through Cornish countryside, following the Saints Trail and along the dismantled track passing Cocks Viaduct and several old railway bridges. A mostly level walk, it takes you through a pretty valley of fields and slight hills, and you’ll find beautiful views await! Start the walk at the Saints Trail, located in Perranporth just off the main high street and a couple of minutes' walk from Waves – a collection of townhouses in the heart of the village.
2 Waves is a bright and welcoming escape, with plenty of space for all the family and close to everything Perranporth has to offer, from shops to cafes, the beach and coast path!
The Farmhouse, Wadebridge
Sleeps: 6
Best for: Taking a historic train ride on the Bodmin Railway
One of the most notable train experiences in Cornwall is the Bodmin Railway. This Victorian railway line opened in 1834 to transport minerals and agricultural sea sand, then in 1859 the Cornwall Rail opened, bringing holidaymakers down to the coast! The original station, which opened in 1887 on the branch line, is now home to one of the country’s most loved steam railways! The two-hour train journey takes you through the Cornish countryside, so sit back and relax in the vintage carriages while taking in the views! Throughout the year, the railway line offers fun-filled themed days, including Diesel weekends, murder mystery rides, steam shanties, and this year, Paddington himself is visiting the charming heritage station. Christmas is a particularly magical experience at Bodmin and Wenford with Santa by Steam running on selected dates in December, where you can jump on board with Father Christmas and his mischievous elves for a festive train ride!
Stay nearby at The Farmhouse, a lovingly renovated retreat near Wadebridge that has been designed with families in mind, where you’ll make unforgettable holiday memories! The Farmhouse is set within a vast secluded garden with a tranquil lake, woodfired hot tub, barbecue, and children’s playhouse.
Ready to book your getaway? Take a look at all our cottages in Cornwall for more holiday inspiration.