Boat in Penzance harbour (photo © Milan Gonda / dreamstime.com)

17th edition: Following Brunel to Cornwall (Route 1)

With the Great Western Railway to Cornwall

Route introduction

Our very first journey in Europe by Rail starts at London’s Paddington station; it is the unsung star of London’s railway termini. The station has a light elegance which is utterly charming - and it is the perfect place to embark on a journey which takes in some of the finest countryside in southern England. Paddington is a London station which has forever been associated with pleasure.

Some termini were always, and still are, stations for commuters. Others suggested trade and commerce. But Paddington was for holidays. So, join us as we climb aboard one of the Great Western Railway trains bound for Cornwall.

Countries covered
England

MAP Double click on the map (or double tap on mobile) to zoom in. You can connect onto other routes in places shown in red. Change to a layer showing a more familiar road map view by clicking on the menu at the top right of the map. Get back to the original view by clicking on the house icon shown in the top left menu on the map.

Europe by Rail: The Definitive Guide

Whether you are making a long grand tour or just planning a couple of weekend breaks, Europe by Rail is the perfect guide. The book describes 50 key routes in detail. Together, they span mainland Europe and the British Isles. Find out more about the guidebook below.

The 18th edition of the definitive guide to exploring Europe by rail will be published on 24 October 2024. With tips on ticketing, fares and accommodation, Europe by Rail has become the definitive guide to exploring Europe by train. Read here the book's word of welcome.
Europe by Rail contains all that's necessary to plan your rail journey through Europe: 50 route descriptions, a country gazetteer, rail connections, information on Eurail and Interrail passes and more.
The 18th edition of Europe by Rail: The Definitive Guide will be published on 24 October 2024. Here, we list a few places which have regularly stocked the 17th edition.