The UK’s best Valentine’s Day train stations

If your loved one likes trains, they’ll love this Valentine’s idea.

This year Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday, which has to be the perfect excuse to take a day off work, spend some time together…

And visit a romantic train station.

Okay the word ‘romantic’ is a bit tongue in cheek. Here in the UK it’s tricky to view glaciers from your train seat or take a February trip to sun-drenched beaches but our railway lines are packed with romantic destination possibility.

Don’t believe me?

Oh you of little faith!

My top suggestions for romantic Valentine’s Day train stations

And let’s not forget, I do write the UK’s most popular train adventure website (at least I hope I do!)

Ribblehead station, Fi Darby

Sadly we don’t have a St Valentine’s train station here in the UK but if you’re hungry, there’s always Valentine’s Coffee Shop at Cwmbran station.

Burgers a specialty.

It might be hard to believe but train travel in the UK has a history of romance. Close your eyes and imagine a steam train, a crowded platform and two lovers meeting.

It must have happened all the time.

And it could happen for you too. Here are a few ideas for romantic train station meetups, on platforms that have surely seen plenty of stolen kisses.

How about a royal romance?

Ballater train station

If you love someone, you buy them a castle. Right?

Well that’s what Prince Albert did for Queen Victoria who didn’t have to think about how to get to Balmoral Castle because she had her very own train (s).

Ballater railway station was once the nearest train station to Balmoral Castle and was used frequently by the royal couple. It was lost to the infamous Beeching cuts in 1966 but is now a tourist attraction known as Old Royal Station and home to a replica of one of Queen Victoria’s railway carriages.

Catch the 201 bus from Aberdeen’s Union Square to either Balmoral Castle or Ballater.

Or a Brief Encounter?

Carnforth train station

  • Alec: Could you really say goodbye? Never see me again?
  • Laura: Yes, if you’d help me.

If you can’t travel on Valentine’s Day, might I recommend a night in watching Brief Encounter? Once you’ve indulged in this classic strangers-on-a-train ‘weepie’, you’re bound to want to visit Carnforth station, where the movie was filmed.

Carnforth is a working station now and was a working station then but you can still get a taste of the atmosphere at the Carnforth Station Heritage Centre and its lovingly recreated 1940s cinema.

Only one film plays here, what could be more romantic?

Maybe opt for travel romance?

The Meeting Place, St Pancras, Fi Darby

St Pancras train station

With its Eurostar platforms tempting us towards romantic Parisian nights, London’s St Pancras  station already has an air of indecent excitement about it but the most romantic location at St Pancras isn’t at the impressive trackside St Pancras Bar, but the 9-metre tall ‘The Meeting Place‘ sculpture colloquially known as ‘The Lovers Statue’.

Who knew bronze could be so sexy!

Looking for that ‘just the two of us’ feeling?

Corrour station, Fi Darby

Corrour train station

I haven’t visited Corrour station in February but I have been through on a snowy day in December and I can tell you that, if it’s romantic seclusion you’re looking for, you’ll find it at the UK’s highest mainline train station in February.

Corrour train station has a super romantic setting in the middle of lonely Rannoch Moor but unless you’ve booked a night at Hostelling Scotland’s Loch Ossian Hostel or packed a tent and a very warm sleeping bag, you’ll soon wish you were back on the train.

Winter on Scotland’s West Highland Line

Check with staff if you want to get off at Corrour.

Train stations with romantic names

There are a few UK train stations with romantic names but I had to dig quite deep to find a connection.

For a start, how about The Hawthorns station in Smethwick. Not for West Bromwich Albion, or the surrounding scenery but because hawthorn trees have long been associated with fertility and love.

Or how about Aber-lovey-dovey in Gwynedd for a cuddle?

Or Liphook in Hampshire for a kiss?

Or even Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham for a proposal?

But might I suggest you avoid Uckfield and Pokesdown on a first date?

Did you know that all UK train stations have an abbreviation code? If you’re a bit nerdy like me, you’ll enjoy learning a few to use when you book online.

Showing off to an app can be fun!

As well as looking at station names for your perfect Valentine’s Day destination, you could check out their abbreviations as well but be warned…

You only have 2,579 stations to choose from!

Here are my favourites:

  • VAL = Valentine but also Valley station on Anglesey
  • LUX = Luxury but also Luxulyan station in Cornwall

One thing to remember if you’re looking for that romantic couples selfie; station abbreviations don’t usually appear on station signs.

Possibly best to explain in advance.

You might get away with taking your loved one to the train station with their name in the station title or abbreviation.

  • AMY = Amberley in West Sussex
  • BEE – Beeston in Nottingham
  • DSY = Daisy Hill near Manchester
  • HRO = Harold Wood in Havering
  • MIA = Manchester Airport
  • NOA = Newton-on-Ayr in Ayrshire
  • OLY = Ockley in Surrey
  • PAT = Patricroft near Manchester
  • SAL = Salisbury in Wiltshire
  • TED = Teddington in Richmond

And if you can’t find your special person’s name in the UK train stations list, this one should cover you.

  • BAY = Bayford in Hertfordshire

Valentines days out by train

So many train stations, so much choice. This blog post has taken me ages to write because I wanted to research and visit all the stations I read about.

If you fancy extending your romantic commitment to train travel beyond the station platform, check out my romantic ideas for a Valentine’s day out by train.

Starcross Station to Powderham Castle walk

This is a train adventure from Starcross train station.

Copyright Ordnance Survey 2025

Starcross station is on the London to Cornwall main line but it’s so small, not all trains stop there. Perched high above the Exe Estuary, the station only has two platforms. But as well as its stunning estuary views, and its location on the South West Coastal Path, this tiny station has another big advantage.

It’s within walking distance of Powderham Castle.

Where is Powderham Castle?

Looking at the map of Devon, you might imagine Powderham Castle was built to defend the River Exe estuary but it lacks some of the features of traditional castles such as a moat and keep.

Happily situated on Devon’s south coast just down river from Exeter, the walks around Powderham Castle offer amazing views but be warned, Powderham’s name relates to its reclaimed marsh land. Be prepared for at least some mud, especially in the winter.

At one point on this walk you’ll almost be below sea level.

What are the Powderham Castle opening times?

Powderham Castle Entrance, Fi Darby

Apart from their Christmas at the Castle event, Powderham Castle closes over the winter, opening again in spring. During the warmer months, the castle and estate are closed on Saturdays but open between 10:00 – 16:00 Sunday to Friday.

It’s worth checking the website before you visit because events at Powderham can lead to closures and to the estate being busy.

Check Powderham castle opening times.

Can you walk around Powderham Castle?

During the summer months, Powderham offers some lovely walks through the estate woods and garden but you will need a ticket or membership (good value if you live locally) to access these.

If you do want to visit for a winter walk, there are a few public footpaths across the estate as well as a permissive walking and cycling route giving access to Powderham Farm Shop & Bistro.

Powderham Castle dog walks

Want your dog to be king of the castle?

Powderham Castle is one of Devon’s most dog-friendly destinations. Understandably on this working estate, dogs are requested to be on leads but unusually they are allowed inside the castle.

Dogs are also allowed on UK trains.

What are the Powderham Castle entrance fees?

You won’t need to pay an entrance fee to complete this walk because it uses public and permissive footpaths. In the summertime you can either buy tickets or pay for membership to visit other areas of the Powderham grounds as well as the castle itself.

Powderham Castle tickets and membership.

Circular Powderham Castle walk

River Exe Estuary Powderham, Fi Darby
  • Destination: Powderham Castle estate
  • Train station: Starcross
  • Travel time from London: 3 hours
  • Travel time from Bristol: 2 hours
  • Walk time: 3 hours (with a coffee stop)
  • Distance: 8 kilometres (5 miles)
  • Elevation: 61 metres (one hill)
  • Dog friendly: Yes but on leads on the estate please
  • Map & gpx file: OS Maps
  • Toilets: Starcross station, Powderham Farm Shop & Bistro
  • Refreshments: Teign Bean Starcross, the Atmospheric Railway pub (just opposite the station) and Powderham Farm Shop and Bistro
  • Connects with: Marsh Barton to Starcross station walk

Starcross to Powderham Castle walk

Permissive path entrance Powderham, Fi Darby

Leave the station and turn right. Follow the walkway past a grass area and car park to cross a small road. Turn right again along the lane and on the left between the two buildings walk through the estate gate to access the permissive path.

This is a shared path. Watch out for bikes.

If the permissive path is closed, head back to the A379 seafront road and follow it along until you come to the castle’s main gate.

Follow the path along until you come to Powderham Farm Shop and Bistro. On the way keep an eye out for deer in the park and distant views of Powderham Castle on your right.

Visit again in the summer for better castle views.

After the Farm Shop, turn left away from the castle to meet the road through a white gate. Turn right then right again into Slittercombe Lane. Follow past the houses and round the corner. You’ll find a public footpath on the right.

Don’t take this first one, it’s super muddy in the winter.

Flooded ground Powderham, Fi Darby

Just 100 metres further on and downhill, take the second public footpath onto the Powderham estate. Follow it to cross the footbridge over the River Kenn. If you were on the ground here, you would be at sea level.

Which explains all the water.

Follow the footpath to cross over two Powderham lanes. Take note of the ticket-holder only signs. After the second lane, head uphill alongside the deer fence.

Stop to admire the view even if you aren’t out of breath.

As you reach the top of the hill, you’ll be able to spot the top of the Powderham Belvedere on your left. In the summer, ticket-holding visitors can walk up to the tower. You can even get married there.

But the Belvedere’s ballroom is long gone.

St Clement’s Church Powderham, Fi Darby

Follow the path down the other side of the hill towards the estuary. Head through the gate and across the green towards the cottages that make up the hamlet of Powderham. Walk down the lane between them to find St Clement’s church.

Here you have a choice.

  1. Turn left over the footbridge to walk upstream past two pubs to Marsh Barton station (2.5 hours).
  2. Return the way you came to buy goodies from Powderham Farm Shop for your train journey home.
  3. Turn right to follow the lane between the train line and the Powderham estate.

I’ve used option three for this hiking route. It’s a long lane but there’s plenty to look at and the trains rushing by add an element of excitement.

Especially if you love trains as much as I do.

All you need to do now is follow the lane back to Starcross station and continue your journey from there.

Local train travel is cheaper with a Regional Railcard.

Hygge? Mysa? Scandi? Can you get to IKEA by train?

Mysa (I hope) is the Swedish equivalent of the cosy concept of hygge.

In July 2024 I travelled back from Sweden to the UK by train after a wonderful holiday in Stockholm. I love all things Scandinavia and sometimes visit IKEA here in the UK to get my Scandi fix (apologies to any actual Scandinavians here, I know IKEA isn’t Sweden). And not your usual travel writer destination.

But I did recently demonstrate that you can get to IKEA by train.

Continue reading “Hygge? Mysa? Scandi? Can you get to IKEA by train?”

The Geoneedle walk from Exmouth train station

Exploring Exmouth on foot from the train station is so easy I’m not sure I’ll take the car again. Not only that, the train journey from Exeter to Exmouth takes you along the scenic Avocet Line right beside the River Exe estuary.

It has beautiful waterside views.

View of river from train window. Gentle sunrise colours over the opposite bank.
The Avocet Line train views, Fi Darby

This is a short Exmouth walking route but in my opinion, it is one of the best walks from Exmouth train station to the beach (and beyond). If you’re looking for Devon coastal walks but don’t want to have to work too hard, this Exmouth walking route is perfect.

It takes you to the Jurassic Coast Geoneedle but you could carry on to Budleigh Salterton.

Devon coastal walks are famous for being part of the 630-mile South West Coast Path but you don’t often hear much about the Exmouth section. This might be because, in the summer, Exmouth is a bustling family holiday destination.

With all the associated amusements and crowds.

But in the winter, walks around Exmouth town and train station are a great combination of peaceful, scenic and tasty (Exmouth has some rather good eateries).

A scenic walk from Exmouth train station to the seafront

Exmouth train station, Fi Darby

This walk links with my Topsham to Exmouth station to station walk. In fact, you can train hike the whole of the Exe estuary if you also include the walking route between Marsh Barton and Starcross stations.

This Exmouth route is definitely a family-friendly walk. Even if the weather isn’t suitable for beach fun, it’s a mostly flat route with cafes and entertainment all along the seafront.

Exmouth Paraglider, Fi Darby

And you might even spot paragliders.

Your Exmouth train station walk

Groynes Exmouth Beach, Fi Darby
  • Train stationExmouth station (a GWR station)
  • Distance – 4 kilometres
  • Elevation – 40 metres
  • Time – 1 hour (one way)
  • Refreshments – The floating River Exe Cafe (April to September), Spoken (Mediterranean value), Bumble and Sea (excellent coffee, Orcombe Point)
  • Toilets – Behind Exmouth station, Manor Gardens and Queen’s Drive (happily, Exmouth has lots of loos)

Walk route GPX – Exmouth station to the Orcombe Point Geoneedle

From Exmouth station

There are lots of routes to Exmouth seafront from the train station. This was mine but feel free to find your own.

Follow the round signs towards the Marina (not through the underpass). Cross at the zebra crossing to go through an alley that leads to the town square.

Traditional Beacon Hill

Beacon Hill Exmouth, Fi Darby

Skirt around the edge of the Square to the right, heading up the hill signposted ‘The Beacon’. Near the top of the hill, take the slope down onto the footpath and continue through the park until you reach the seafront.

Along Exmouth seafront

Turn left along the seafront walking on the prom or the beach. For the section before the Lifeboat Station you can also opt to walk along the grassy paths on The Maer, just above the road.

Rodney Point

Continue until you reach the cliffs and car turning point at Orcombe Rocks (Rodney Point). By the coffee hut, head up the zig-zag slope to follow the signs to Orcombe Point and the Geoneedle.

The coast path around Rodney Point is currently closed.

The Jurassic Coast

Exmouth Geoneedle, Fi Darby

The Orcombe Point Geoneedle isn’t just a sculpture, it marks the start (or end) of the Jurassic Coast World Heritage Site, which stretches all the way to Portland.

There are nine different stones, from the Cretaceous, Jurassic and Triassic periods embedded in the structure. The Exmouth end of the Heritage Site has the oldest stone.

Author’s Exmouth train station walk

Exmouth Geoneedle Sign, Fi Darby

I walked this route in December and thoroughly enjoyed the windy-weather vibe of Exmouth beach. Be warned though, Exmouth sand is very mobile. When I was there, the prom and road were being cleared of piles of sand.

As the wind picked up, I felt a familiar crunching in my mouth.

My favourite part of the walk was being lucky enough to catch the paragliders dangling and soaring in the thermals around Orcombe Point.

They came really close.

I would recommend leaving yourself plenty of time to enjoy the Geoneedle area. There’s lots of information up there and fabulous views, as well as some great selfie opportunities if you’re that way inclined.

Obviously I am!

Exmouth Geoneedle selfie spot, Fi Darby

 

 

 

 

 

How to claim a refund on UK train tickets

What to do if your UK train is delayed and you need a refund

If your train has just been cancelled, it might help your annoyance levels to remember that delays and cancellations are an inevitable part of any travel network.

Plan your own adventure by train

It can be difficult to work out what to do when you get that train cancellation email or even when you arrive at the station to find no train, but there is some good news.

In the UK you can get train ticket refunds.

Continue reading “How to claim a refund on UK train tickets”

Adventures by train – Par’s Time and Tide Bell

One of the things I love most about my train adventures is they take me off the beaten path to explore places and discover treasure I wasn’t expecting to find.

Like a bell in the middle of a lonely beach.

Continue reading “Adventures by train – Par’s Time and Tide Bell”

Ten Devon and Cornwall train adventures

Have you noticed any hints of autumn yet? I have but they’re so slight, I’m choosing to ignore them and make the most of the last few weeks of summer 2024.

So far I’ve had a grand summer.

Especially when it comes to train adventures.

Continue reading “Ten Devon and Cornwall train adventures”

How to Visit Windsor Castle by Train

Windsor Castle is one of the most iconic of the UK’s Royal residences and has been home to our Royal Family for over 900 years.

But my favourite thing about Windsor Castle isn’t its grandeur (it has plenty), its famous occupants (always intriguing) or its beautiful stonework (hard not to be impressed).

It’s that Windsor Castle is just across the road from not one but two train stations.

Windsor and Eton Central station, Fi Darby

Windsor and Eton Central station and Windsor and Eton Riverside station are both within easy walking distance of Windsor Castle entrance.

Although the route to the castle from GWR’s Windsor and Eton Central has less uphill.

I travelled with my favourite train line GWR from Devon changing at Reading and then Slough. I especially loved the single platform journey into Windsor and Eton Central, which crossed the River Thames via Brunel’s Windsor Railway Bridge.

Brunel Railway Bridge Windsor, Fi Darby

Isambard Kingdom Brunel’s constructions pop up everywhere once you start travelling by train.

I particularly love walking across Brunel’s bridges (not possible with all of them).

Windsor Central station or Windsor Riverside station?

Windsor and Eton Riverside station, Fi Darby

Getting to Windsor by train was easy and I found enough to explore to make me add the trip to my adventures by train pages.

Which station you choose for your trip to Windsor will depend on a few factors.

  1. From London you can opt for London Waterloo (direct to Windsor and Eton Riverside) or Paddington (change at Slough for Windsor and Eton Central).
  2. If you don’t mind changing trains at Slough (it’s very easy) the journey with GWR into Windsor and Eton Central offers tantalising glimpses of Windsor Castle.
  3. So far Windsor and Eton Central is top of my ‘most chilled railway station’ list. The shops and eateries set under the impressive cover of the Victorian station space, make Royal Windsor Station (its previous name) a destination in its own right.
Windsor Royal Station Entrance, Fi Darby

Although the two Windsor stations make a really easy station to station walk (they’re less than a kilometre apart) they don’t have a direct train line between them.

Check out my station to station walking routes here.

Who lives at Windsor Castle?

Windsor Castle is the world’s largest inhabited castle.

Famous former Windsor Castle residents include Henry VIII (also quite large), Elizabeth I and Queen Elizabeth II. You can still see the Royal Standard flying over Windsor Castle today if the King is in residence.

Selfie King Charles III, Fi Darby

If he isn’t you’ll see the Union Flag instead.

Windsor Castle’s Royal residences, including Adelaide Cottage where Prince William and his family live and Frogmore Cottage once home to Harry and Meghan, are quite rightly kept from public view.

Everyone needs a bit of time out.

But the State Apartments and some other areas at Windsor Castle are open to the public as part of the Royal Collection Trust.

Is it worth visiting Windsor?

Windsor Castle, Fi Darby

Even if you aren’t a fan of the Royal Family, Windsor is a really interesting town to visit. The castle itself sits like a centrepiece to the town.

 And curiosity will almost certainly pull you in.

Whether you choose to visit Windsor Castle or not, Windsor has plenty to offer its visitors.

Where to go in Windsor if you’re not visiting Windsor Castle

Windsor Castle Entrance, Fi Darby

Windsor Castle is absolutely worth a visit, not least because if you choose to pay for entry to the castle, you’ll get a close-up view of iconic places you’ve seen during televised Royal events and historic items you’ve only previously seen in pictures.

My favourites included Henry VIII’s armour and the restored St George’s Hall.

But if you decide not to purchase a ticket to Windsor Castle, Windsor and its cross-river neighbour Eton, have plenty to offer in their own rights.

Windsor duck boat tour, Fi Darby

Here are my five top suggestions of things to do in Windsor if you’re not visiting Windsor Castle.

Note: Windsor Castle is not open every day.

1. Walk to Eton College

Eton College, Fi Darby

Eton College is a short walk from Windsor Castle across the River Thames. Don’t forget to look in the windows of the uniform shops on the way and perhaps enjoy lunch at Côte Windsor or The Boatman pub (both on the riverside).

2. Visit Windsor’s Crooked House

Crooked House Windsor, Fi Darby

Despite its wonky appearance, Windsor’s Crooked House is nowhere near as old as Windsor Castle but it is one of Windsor’s most photographed (and Instagramable) buildings. Claiming to be the UK’s oldest tea shop, it looks like it belongs in Harry Potter’s Diagon Alley and is currently The Shambles cafe bar and bottle shop.

3. Walk a section of the Thames Path

Thames Path Windsor, Fi Darby

The Thames Path is 185 miles long and runs all the way from the great river’s source in the Cotswolds to Woolwich a few miles from the sea. 185 miles is a long way but this route can be walked in sections.

UK long distance paths you can walk by train.

The Thames Path has many options for station to station walks.

Copyright Ordnance Survey 2024

About an hour downstream will take you through Windsor Home Park (open to the public) then across the river to Datchet station. If you continue for another hour along the Thames Path from Datchet, you’ll come to the Runnymede Boathouse from where you’ll be able to join a boat trip back to Windsor (check the French Brothers website for times and booking).

The boat trip back will give you amazing views of Windsor’s parks as well as the castle.

How about this train adventure? A beautiful boat trip from Devon to Cornwall.

4. Watch the changing of the Windsor Castle Guard

Windsor Castle Guard, Fi Darby

You’ll need to be inside Windsor Castle to see the Windsor Guard changing ceremony but before and after this, the New Guard and Old Guard march along High Street. One of the best places to watch this march is from the raised Guildhall area opposite the Castle Hotel. The Guard doesn’t march every day and not always to music. Times and dates are available on the Changing Guard website.

Note: Occasionally and without warning, the Guard doesn’t march past the Guildhall. Unfortunately this happened on my visit so I don’t have any splendid photos of the event.

5. Walk Windsor’s famous Long Walk

Windsor Castle Long Walk, Fi Darby

Windsor’s Long Walk is beautiful straight tree lined path. It joins Snow Hill in Windsor Great Park with Windsor Castle and gives amazing castle views. You’ll recognise it from various Royal occasions including the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II. The Long Walk is free for the public to use but as part of Windsor Great Park, it may be closed on some occasions.

Author’s visit to Windsor

Windsor Long Walk, Fi Darby

Visiting as I did in the middle of August, I had expected Windsor to feel overcrowded but it really didn’t. It was definitely a tourist town but these were polite and respectful tourists.

There were plenty of people around during the day but in the evening it was much quieter and the only times we had to queue were for understandable security checks at the the entrance to Windsor Castle and to walk past the Royal Vault in the King George VI Memorial Chapel (at St George’s Chapel).

A memorable experience.

I stayed with a friend for one night and was very pleased to find our apartment a short and very relaxed walk away from the train station through the Royal Windsor Station shopping area. My favourite thing was the almost instant view of Windsor Castle.

I could even glimpse it from my bed.

Windsor Castle is very much at the centre of Windsor and exploring that as well as enjoying a wonderful boat trip on the Thames (I recommend heading downstream past the Royal Parks) didn’t leave much time for walking. Although we did wander across the river to take a peek at the buildings of Eton College (fascinating).

I plan to go back and explore further afield on foot.

I’m not generally a fan of the South East and I didn’t think I would want to visit Windsor more than once but I do. It has a unique rarefied atmosphere.

And is super easy to visit by train.

Train arriving Windsor, Fi Darby

There were plenty of highlights on my trip but I’ve listed my five top things to do in Windsor below.

Windsor Castle from High Street, Fi Darby
  1. Pay the ticket price and visit Windsor Castle
  2. Take a boat ride on the River Thames
  3. Stroll along the Long Walk
  4. Dine out in a cobbled street
  5. Cross the Thames to discover Eton College

And definitely arrive by train. The car parks and coach areas were super full.

 

Adventures by train – River Dart Canoeing

Ever since I started my obsession with train adventures, I’ve been trying to work out how I could enjoy canoeing by train. I used to do a lot of paddling, mostly in a kayak.

And often accidentally out of it.

One particularly happy canoeing memory is canoe camping with a group of Scouts on the River Dart. We set off from Stoke Gabriel (popular for crabbing), camped on the banks at Sharpham House (mindfulness and rewilding) and paddled up to Totnes the next day.

Just wonderful.

Inflatable kayaks or traditional canoes?

Canoe River Dart, Fi Darby

Until the inflatable revolution, canoeing and kayaking involved having plenty of home storage and a car to carry all your gear.

Not everyone has these.

Nowadays inflatable kayaks and paddleboards have made time on the water more accessible to more people but to my mind, they aren’t a replacement for traditional kayaks and canoes when it comes to enjoyment.

And perhaps safety.

You could perhaps, take an inflatable kayak on a train (I intend to try soon with my new Packraft) but bigger trips require bigger boats, and when it comes to traditional canoes and kayaks there’s one key problem.

Most trains don’t have canoe storage.

Why choose outdoor activities by train?

Totnes Station, Fi Darby

So why go by train?

Why don’t I enjoy my outdoor activities by car like everyone else?

Well there are many reasons but here are a few.

  • Not everyone has a car and the outdoors should be accessible for all
  • Too many vehicles in countryside lanes cause problems for everybody
  • Travelling by train is far better for the environment than travelling by car
  • I love train rides, mainly for the countryside views

In truth I do still use my campervan Greta to get around and sleep in but if I can take the train instead, I do.

And if I can encourage other people to do the same along the way, all the better.

Check out more of my outdoor adventures by train.

A canoe tour on the River Dart – by train

  • Station: Totnes
  • Travel time from London: 2 hrs 45 mins
  • Travel time from Bristol: 1 hr 35 mins
  • Canoe tour provider: Dewerstone Adventures

Author’s adventure tip: Trust yourself to your canoe guide. I had a great time with Aiden. He helped me remember my old paddling skills, taught me a few new ones and, most importantly, made sure we enjoyed ourselves and felt safe at all times.

Practicalities: Put suncream on before you go and wear a hat if it’s bright. Take a bottle of water and a few small snacks. Canoeing might look like gliding but it does use a fair amount of energy. Go to the loo before you set off.

Canoeing by train – the River Dart

Even if you have worked out how to take your canoe on a train (not entirely impossible); unless you’re an experienced paddler, you’re going to need an experienced river guide to help you complete this train adventure.

Allow me to introduce…

Dewerstone Adventures

Aiden from Dewerstone Adventures, Fi Darby

Thoughtfully formed.

If you live in Devon, love Dartmoor or have visited an outdoor show in the last few years, you’ll probably have come across Dewerstone, a climate neutral, Certified B-Corp outdoor brand who recognised that, as well as taking a lot of enjoyment from the environment, we can all make choices that give back to it.

This, by the way, is my favourite of their Fair Wear Foundation t-shirts in case you’re thinking of buying me a present.

Because the team all love the outdoors so much, Dewerstone have set up Dewerstone Adventures whose motto is ‘Equip. Explore. Protect.’

Themes to which I can really respond.

Which is why I chose Dewerstone Adventures for my first canoe trip by train.

Here’s how it went.

My Devon canoe trip (by train)

I will admit to being a bit nervous before this canoe tour. I have a fair amount of kayaking experience (even some on white water) but I haven’t paddled regularly for years.

And I’ve always been good at falling out of my boat.

I didn’t need to worry though. Aiden was an accomplished guide. It was easy right from the start to see he was used to supporting guests of all confidence and experience levels.

All equipment provided

Paddles, dry bags, buoyancy aids, there’s no doubt about it, kayaking and canoeing require a fair amount of equipment.

And that’s without mentioning the boat.

When you’re on holiday or travelling by public transport, it’s tricky to carry all of that on the bus or train.

Even if your river is right next to the station.

River swimming from Totnes station.

Which is why I was so pleased to hear that Dewerstone Adventures would provide all the kit I needed. All I had in my small rucksack when I hopped on the train was a bag of snacks, a bottle of water, a towel and a change of clothes.

Just in case!

Arriving at Totnes by train

Access for All path, Fi Darby

It’s a pleasant walk from Totnes train station to Steamer Quay on the other side of the River Dart. Especially if you take the footpath next to the river.

Copyright Ordnance Survey 2024

But if you have time, it’s also worth exploring Totnes town before or after your paddle. Packed full of quirky and original local shops, Totnes has something for everyone.

Especially if you like eating.

Leaving dry land

Our tour started at Steamer Quay, which is a public quay so I had fun watching other people launch as well as helping Aiden unload the canoes from the van.

He definitely did more lifting than me.

Aiden kitted my fellow paddler Sue and I out with personal flotation devices (buoyancy aids), offered us space for snacks etc in his dry bag, and gave us a few pointers before we set off.

Getting in can be the wobbliest part of a paddle.

It was low tide so Aiden helped us both negotiate the slippery ramp and then get into the canoe. I had forgotten how stable big canoes are. I stepped in easily and didn’t feel too nervy as we set off.

Go with the flow.

We were soon paddling downstream and immediately left the buildings and boats of Totnes behind us. With the tide really low, we were treated to a beautifully alien landscape of tree roots, mud flats and whispering reeds.

A landscape you just don’t have access to on land.

We made a short journey down river because the wind was going to be against us on the return trip. We were treated almost as soon as we set off to a visit from a Little Egret.

And then the wildlife just kept on coming.

Deer, herons, cormorants, a seal and even a flash of blue from a Kingfisher, it felt like nature had come out to say ‘hello’. This isn’t an uncommon feature of river paddling. Without an engine, you become part of the environment.

It’s a wonderful experience.

Learning paddling skills

Satisfied smile, Fi Darby

On our return trip the paddling was harder work but I had got back into my stroke a bit by then and felt I could dig in more.

Plus Aiden’s instructions had reminded me how to steer a canoe.

Aiden found places for us to rest when we were tired and had a few tricks up his sleeve to ease our progress up the river. The tide had turned to help us by now and he taught us how to follow the bubbles where the tidal flow was strongest.

By the time we got back to the quay, I had even remembered how to do a J-stroke.

I was quite chuffed when Aiden noticed!

Take a canoe tour on the River Dart

Whether you’re local, on holiday in Devon or looking for a day out from London (other cities are available), I can thoroughly recommend a canoe tour with Dewerstone Adventures.

Or why not make it a weekend? Totnes is fantastic.

Totnes train station is on the mainline between London and Cornwall, most trains stop there and my tour was timed perfectly to fit in with train timetables.

Go on! You know you want to!!

 

 

Adventures by train – river swim in Cornwall

I hope you won’t be disappointed.

This article doesn’t give specific directions to a secret river swimming location in Cornwall.

I’m not sure there are any of those left.

Stepping stones River Fowey, Fi Darby

But it is a post about my recent train adventure; a beautiful station to station walk, that included a gorgeous cooling river swim in Cornwall’s River Fowey.

No, I’m not going to tell you exactly where I swam.

It’s far more fun exploring for yourself and this walk has so much more to offer than a dip in the river.

How to plan a walking route with the OS Maps app.

Flowing water, gentle rapids, giant trees, long flat sections, peace and quiet (even in August).

This train walk has it all.

Even if you don’t like swimming.

River swimming access and safety

Swimming in the River Dart by train.

River access laws in England

Rivers swims in England and Wales can be difficult to locate not because we don’t have many rivers but because our legal and permitted access to rivers is limited. It’s a complicated and contended issue but the Outdoor Swimming Society has a really helpful explanation of our riparian rights (rights to access a watercourse and use water).

River swimming responsibly

When you’re enjoying yourself outside, taking a leave no trace approach is always best. Make sure you take all your rubbish home (including loo paper and food rubbish). When you enter and exit a river please be mindful not to damage the river bank, and when you move from river to river, make sure you rinse all of your equipment in between.

River swimming safety

No swim is without risk and this is particularly true for open water swimming but it is possible to swim safely in rivers. I would always advise swimming with someone else, finding a shallow spot to start with and taking local advice.

Walk the area you want to swim first, looking out for obstructions in the water, and take time to look at the flow of the river. Swim upstream against the flow (if the water flow is too strong for you to do that, find a more gentle swim spot).

I like to wallow in a pool.

This excellent article on outdoor swimming safety has a great section on river swimming.

Note: Tidal sections of rivers can be subject to very fast flow and are best swam with local experts and support.

Taking the train to Cornwall

Trains run from London and (other services are available) into Cornwall every day. GWR’s London to Penzance service from London Paddington is much-loved.

It’s also one of the UK’s most scenic train routes.

Not just beaches

Sea swimming in Devon by train.

When you think of Cornwall, your mind almost certainly conjures up holidays near white sand Cornish beaches and hidden coves.

But Cornwall is so much more than that.

Away from those sparkling turquoise edges is a green land that is just as fascinating and beautiful as the Cornish coastline.

And nowhere near as crowded.

Bodmin Parkway station

Cafe Bodmin Parkway Station, Fi Darby

Whilst some small Cornish railway stations are not much more than a slab of raised concrete, Bodmin Parkway train station is one of those locations that has it all.

  • A cafe for pre-walk sustenance
  • A loo for post-cafe relief
  • A car park, which you won’t need on your train adventure
  • Flowers (I love station flowers)
  • A steam train connection

From here the Bodmin Railway (Bodmin and Wenford on the OS Map) can take you on a steam train ride to Boscarne Junction station via Bodmin General (it also connects with the Camel Trail cycle route).

My walk below starts at Bodmin Parkway station and ends at Lostwithiel but you could walk Lostwithiel to Bodmin Parkway and enjoy a steam train ride once you’ve finished.

Walking route Bodmin Parkway station to Lostwithiel station

Walking route gpx file and map on OS Maps.

Note: This walk takes you directly down river to Lostwithiel but you could also add in a walk up to the National Trust’s beautiful Lanhydrock house.

  • Start station – Bodmin Parkway
  • Finish station – Lostwithiel
  • Distance – 8 km
  • Elevation – 79 m
  • Time – 2.5 hours
  • Refreshments – cafe at Bodmin Parkway station. Lostwithiel has plenty of choice with a pub, fish and chips, and ice cream
  • Toilets – Bodmin Parkway station, near Lostwithiel church, there are no toilets at Lostwithiel station

Walking route GPX – Bodmin Parkway station to Lostwithiel station

Note: The first section of this route uses permissive footpaths (orange dashes on an Ordnance Survey map). These are permitted by the land owner but can occasionally be temporarily closed.

Permissive footpaths Lanhydrock – copyright Ordnance Survey 2024

Leave Bodmin Parkway station.

Leave the station on the same side as the cafe and head down the lane that runs alongside the car park (following signs for Lanhydrock).

Pass below the railway line.

Underpass Bodmin Parkway, Fi Darby

The lane will take you through a railway underpass then onto a wide tree-lined driveway above the river.

Spot the River Fowey below you.

Footpath Bodmin Parkway, Fi Darby

Cross the stone bridge when you come to it and follow the wide path keeping the river on your left. There are options to divert from the main path here.

Who knows what fun you might find!

National Trust Car Park, Respryn Bridge, Fi Darby

Before Respryn bridge, you’ll see a car park on your right. Continue to the road then cross the bridge.

Glad you didn’t drive the narrow lanes?

Below Respryn Bridge, Fi Darby

Just over Respryn bridge, turn right to continue down river. Here you’ll find a short path down to the river. This is labelled ‘Dog Bathing Area’ but I found evidence of people bathing too.

Keep the river on your right.

Follow the main track here (the smaller one nearer to the river was closed when I was there) until you come to and cross a footbridge.

Watch out for trolls.

Continue, with the water on your left now, until the path divides. Take the right fork that heads away from the river.

You’ll meet the River Fowey again soon.

Gate towards Restormel Castle, Fi Darby

Continue through the woods until you come to a reddish gate. Go through this and another gate to the left labelled ‘Footpath to Restormel Castle’.

It’s time for a gentle hill.

Footpath through reeds, Fi Darby

Head up the stony path then through another gate into a field planted with reeds.

And now for something slightly less beautiful.

As you join the lane and start to walk along it, you’ll pass the Restormel waterworks. You might be surprised by how big they are. They treat and supply much of Cornwall’s drinking water.

A green and quiet lane.

Pass the treatment works to continue along the lane. At one point the lane forks. The footpath continues straight on despite the ‘Access to farm only’ signs (those are for vehicles). The ‘Public Footpath’ sign on the gate should reassure you.

Pass Restormel Manor.

Buildings Restormel Manor, Fi Darby

When you reach the beautiful buildings around Restormel Manor, you’ll have the opportunity to divert and walk up the hill to Restormel Castle (English Heritage). Otherwise continue along the lane following the sign for the Duchy of Cornwall Nursery.

Not all waterfalls are giants.

When you get to Lostwithiel Bowling Club (an interesting sight in the middle of the Cornish countryside), go through the small gate on the other side of the road to enjoy a break next to a miniature waterfall.

Back to the river.

Lostwithiel New Bridge, Fi Darby

As you come into Lostwithiel, divert from the lane through a gate on the left. Follow the gravel path down to rejoin the river. Pass under the A390 road bridge before coming to Lostwithiel’s ancient stone bridge.

Fun under the bridge

Summer fun Lostwithiel Bridge, Fi Darby

On a low water day, you can walk right underneath Lostwithiel bridge but the most sensible people (the younger ones) will probably be playing in the water here.

Plenty of opportunity for swooshing.

Once you’ve explored Lostwithiel (it’s definitely worth taking the time to do so), cross the old bridge to find Lostwithiel station.

It’s time to bid the River Fowey farewell.

Author’s walk and swim

A Cornish river swim and walk by train

On a hot day in August I knew I wanted to be away from Devon and Cornwall’s crowded coastal beaches so I opted for a train ride into the Cornish countryside.

There are two things I love on a hot day, water and trees, and this walk had plenty of both. Most of the day I was walking in the shade and had the sound of the river to accompany me.

And yes, I did have a lovely river swim.

I found a river beach by a bend in the river that, on the inside of the bend, offered a pool just deep enough for me to float in and on the outside a bit of flow to allow me to stretch my swimming muscles.

I had several dips.

And it was so warm I ate lunch in my swimsuit watching the dogs play in the river.

Much nicer than being in the holiday crowds.

I was initially sorry to leave the riverside for the lane section of the walk but found the lane just as interesting and saw even less people than I had down by the river.

Which is perhaps why it was a bit of a shock to cross under the bridge at Lostwithiel and find the river beach packed with parents and the river itself packed with children. It was lovely to see them enjoying themselves in the water but I felt a bit too self conscious to join in.

Good wholesome fun.

I sat and watched the kids swooshing under the bridge before I went to catch my train home.

Plenty more to explore.

I’m looking forward to exploring this area of Cornwall further by train. Perhaps a walk on up to Lanhydrock or further down river towards Fowey itself. And I would like to go to Restormel Castle and see what the views are like from there.

Kernow, tereba nessa (Cornwall till next time).

Check out more of my adventures by train and station to station walks.