Top places to stay when travelling to Cornwall by train

Places to stay Friday 26th September 2025

There’s something quietly romantic about rail travel, especially when travelling to and from Britain's most southerly county. In the early 20th Century, Great Western Railway launched a campaign to promote Cornwall as an exotic holiday destination, likening it to Italy or France, and coining the term the ‘Cornish Riviera’. From 1907, the Cornish Riviera Express brought passengers from London Paddington to Penzance in record time. Scenic views, a relaxing carriage ride, and the promise of fresh sea air boosted visitors to this seaside town.

From the Cornish Riviera Express to today’s Night Riviera Sleeper, the Paddington to Penzance route (and vice versa) remains one of the most well-known in the UK. Today, it’s a popular choice for those looking for a slower paced holiday, where it’s not all about the destination but the journey too. From the moment you step aboard the train, the holiday vibes begin. Travellers can sit back, read a book, sip a coffee and avoid the traffic jams!

If you’re looking for somewhere to stay that’s conveniently located close to a train station, and is easy to explore without a car, then look no further. Read on to find some of the best places to stay with Aspects Holidays when travelling to Cornwall by train.

Penzance

Penzance marks the most south-westerly point of rail travel in the UK, and is a terminus for several services, including the Paddington to Penzance route. As the final station, it’s easy to breeze on through to your destination without having to worry about missing your stop!

We have several properties conveniently located just a few minutes’ walk from the train station, ideal if you’re visiting west Cornwall by train.

Stanhope Forbes

Located in the old Wharfside House, Stanhope Forbes is situated just across the road from the train station, making it ideal for hopping off the train and heading on foot to your holiday accommodation. Sleeping four, this charming apartment retains original features and offers views across the wharf and harbour. You’re sure to feel relaxed here as you enjoy watching the comings and goings of boats in the harbour.

The Chapel Gallery

Just a few minutes’ walk from the train station, The Chapel Gallery is a luxurious and modern retreat for guests travelling by train. Sleeping up to four guests, it’s well-appointed for couples or friends, and is conveniently close to a range of amenities in Penzance, including local bakeries, independent shops and a selection of eateries. Plus, it’s easy to hop onto a bus or train to explore further afield, making days out a breeze.

Hayle

Though the main route into Cornwall terminates at Penzance, there are opportunities to disembark at earlier stops, including Hayle (although it is worth noting that not all trains stop at this station due to its smaller size). It’s conveniently located close to local amenities, including shops, cafes, and the beach!

Bird’s Eye View

Overlooking Hayle Estuary Nature Reserve, Bird’s Eye View is a top-floor apartment just a short walk from Hayle train station. This peaceful property is the perfect place to stay for a relaxing break for up to four guests. Spend leisurely mornings bird watching from the comfort of the sitting area, before heading out to explore Hayle, or further afield by train or bus.

St Erth, Lelant, Carbis Bay and St Ives

Before terminating at Penzance, trains stop at St Erth station, a Grade II listed station built in 1852. Known originally as the St Ives Road station, it’s little surprise that travellers can change trains at St Erth and take the short, scenic coastal route to St Ives. This branch line, named the St Ives Bay Line, is known for its beautiful vistas, stopping at Lelant, Lelant Saltings (by request), and Carbis Bay along the way.

We have lots of properties along this stunning stretch of coast, which are easily accessible when travelling by train.

Grebe Cottage

Stay a short distance from St Erth Station at Grebe Cottage, a cosy home from home situated in the desirable Lelant Saltings. Whether travelling from the station on foot, by taxi or by transferring to the St Ives Bay Line, you’ll reach the property in minutes. Sleeping up to six guests, this lovely property offers a slow-paced holiday with easy access to St Ives via the train.

Lodge 1a, Carrack Gladden

Situated close to Carbis Bay Railway Station, Lodge 1a, Carrack Gladden is easy to access; simply hop off the carriage, head over the bridge, and within minutes you’ll reach this sea view apartment. Simply relax and unwind without having to worry about parking the car. With the train station so close by, hop onboard and you’ll reach St Ives in minutes. Alternatively, take the train back to St Erth and from there, multiple train and bus services lead to various destinations across Cornwall.

Carrack Widden – Above The Beach

Located just above the beach, and close to the railway station in St Ives, 34 Carrack Widden – Above The Beach is perfect for an individual or couple travelling to St Ives by train. Simply hop off the carriage at St Ives and walk the short distance to the apartment complex. You’ll be centrally located for accessing everything in St Ives, as well as being close to the train and bus stations for exploring further afield.

St Austell (for Charlestown)

Whilst the main rail line into Cornwall terminates at Penzance, it’s worth considering alternative places to stay in Cornwall when travelling by train. Whether stopping directly on route, or changing trains, there are some fantastic options if you’re visiting the county by train. Disembarking the train at St Austell is a fantastic option for a holiday in the historic harbour town of Charlestown, just a 20-minute walk or a quick 5-minute taxi ride from the train station. Home to a fleet of tall ships, it’s famous as a setting for several films and TV shows, including the BBC production of Poldark.

All Aboard

Take the train to St Austell, and after a short taxi ride, you’ll arrive at All Aboard in Charlestown, a picturesque cottage in a quiet courtyard close to the harbour. Sleeping up to four guests, this charming home is ideal for a slow-paced holiday where days are spent meandering through the harbour village, stopping off to sample food and drinks at the local eateries.

Truro

Cornwall’s only city, Truro, is a cultural centre with a bustling atmosphere, and is only a short walk downhill from Truro Train Station. Whether you’re visiting during the summer or winter months, there’s plenty to see and do, including shopping, dining out and visiting the Cornwall Museum and Gallery.

Puffins

Situated on the outskirts of Truro, in the riverside village of Malpas, Puffins is a spectacular retreat overlooking the River Fal. Sleeping six, this delightful bolthole offers guests a peaceful place away from the hustle and bustle, while also being close to Truro and public transport links. You can even hop onto the ferry right outside Puffins and visit Falmouth for the day.

Falmouth

After changing to the Falmouth branch line at Truro Station, a scenic rail route takes you to Falmouth, a harbour town with a rich maritime history. Thanks to its coastal position, Falmouth offers the best of both worlds – several beaches to visit and a bustling town to explore. There’s so much to see and do within walking distance from the train station, from castles to subtropical gardens, it’s ideal if you’re visiting without a car.

Rockpool

A short walk from the train station and close to the town centre and beaches, Rockpool is a fantastic base for a holiday in Falmouth. Make yourselves at home and enjoy exploring all that Falmouth has to offer on foot. Alternatively, if you want to venture out, you’ll be close to the train station as well as the ferry terminal for trips to St Mawes, Trelissick and Flushing.

Newquay

The branch line to Newquay runs from Par; sinply switch trains and enjoy a direct route to this popular seaside town. Boasting several beaches, Newquay is a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a holiday spent on the sand, swimming or surfing. Furthermore, with a busy high-street and a range of attractions to visit (including a zoo and aquarium), there’s plenty to do when visiting Newquay by train.

Fourshore

From the train station, a walk through the highstreet will lead you to Fourshore, a stylish terraced home decorated in bright and welcoming colours. Sleeping six, this home from home is perfect for friends or a family looking for a holiday by the sea. With everything within walking distance, you can reach the beach, town and attractions in moments. It’s easy to venture further afield thanks to the proximity of the train and bus station.

Wherever you chose to stay, travelling to Cornwall by train can be a relaxing experience that gets the holiday vibes flowing before you reach your destination. For the most convenient places to stay, choose somewhere near a train station, in one of the following places: Penzance, St Erth and Lelant, Carbis Bay, St Ives, Hayle, Truro, Falmouth, Newquay or St Austell for Charlestown.