London Paddington to St Ives (Cornwall) Trains From £45.77*

The train journey from London Paddington to St Ives in Cornwall offers one of the most picturesque rail experiences in the UK. Operated by Great Western Railway (GWR), the trip covers 248 miles and takes 5 hours 25 minutes, with a required change at St Erth. There are up to 29 departures daily, and the final service leaves at 23:45.

After leaving the capital, the train winds through the hills of Wiltshire and Devon, down to Cornwall's dramatic coastline. Highlights include passing by the River Tamar, the rugged countryside around Truro, and finally reaching the charming branch line to St Ives, offering spectacular views of the Atlantic coast.

Great Western Railway, owned by FirstGroup, is one of the UK's major train operators. It runs inter-city, regional, and commuter services across London, the Thames Valley, South West England, and South Wales. Its flagship routes include the Great Western Main Line, the Night Riviera Sleeper to Penzance, and the Heathrow Express. Key destinations include London, Cardiff, Exeter, Bristol, Oxford, and towns across Cornwall, such as Penzance and St Ives.

Departing from London Paddington

London Paddington station sits on Praed Street, in the City of Westminster, Central London. It's a well-connected hub for travellers arriving by bus, Underground, taxi, or airport services.

Numerous TfL bus routes 7, 23, 27, and 205 stop right outside, while taxi ranks and an APCOA car park are available for those arriving by car. From Heathrow, you can reach Paddington in 15 minutes via the Heathrow Express or slightly longer via the Elizabeth line. Walking and cycling are also viable; there are bike racks at platforms 8 to 11 and access via Quietway 2 and the Grand Union Canal towpath.

The station is served by GWR, the Elizabeth line, and the Heathrow Express, offering direct links to cities such as Bristol, Oxford, Cardiff, and Plymouth. London Underground services are available across four major lines: Bakerloo, Circle, District, and Hammersmith & City. The main train operators include GWR, the Elizabeth line, and the Heathrow Express.

Main stops

The journey to St Ives involves a change at St Erth. The main route runs via Plymouth, Truro, and Penzance. From St Erth, passengers transfer to the St Ives Bay Line, a short but scenic branch line.

Arriving at St Ives (Cornwall)

The train terminates at St Ives station, on the southern edge of town, just above Porthminster Beach. A short walk downhill brings you to the town centre, with easy access to shops, galleries, and the harbour. This compact station is the endpoint of the St Ives Bay Line, with regular services to St Erth, where you can connect to the wider national rail network.

From St Erth, passengers can travel onward to Penzance, Falmouth, Newquay, and even London via GWR's intercity services, including the Night Riviera Sleeper.

Once in St Ives, visitors are within walking distance of local landmarks such as St Ives Harbour, Porthgwidden Beach, and the Tate St Ives. A stroll up to The Island (St Ives Head) offers panoramic views of the Cornish coastline, making the journey worth the time.

Great Western Railway train classes

Great Western Railway (GWR) offers Standard and First Class travel options. The London Paddington to St Erth portion is usually operated by Intercity Express Trains, which provide the full GWR onboard services. First Class includes wider, reclining seats, additional legroom, larger tables, power sockets, complimentary hot and cold drinks, snacks, and access to station lounges at locations like Paddington.

Upon arrival at St Erth, passengers transfer to the St Ives Bay Line, which only offers Standard Class seating. These local services are short but scenic, and while no First Class section is available, the views more than make up for it.

Standard Class across the GWR network includes airline-style seating, tables, and a trolley service offering light refreshments.

Great Western Railway train travel advice

If you're planning to travel with Great Western Railway, here are some essential things to keep in mind:

• Luggage: You may bring up to three pieces of luggage, including a large suitcase, a cabin bag, and a personal item. You must manage your own luggage, and it must not block aisles.
• Bicycles: Reservations are required for full-size bikes on Intercity services. Folding bikes with 20-inch wheels or smaller are allowed without reservation. E-bikes are permitted if the battery is removed; charging onboard is prohibited.
• Children: Under 5s travel free with a limit of two per adult, and those aged 5 to 15 receive a 50% discount. A fare-paying adult must accompany children aged 11–15.
• Pets: Up to two pets travel free per passenger if on a lead or in a secure carrier. Assistance dogs are allowed in all areas. Pets must not occupy seats or disrupt other passengers.
• Passenger Assist: Book at least two hours in advance for assistance with boarding, transfers, or seating. Help is available for elderly travellers, disabled passengers, or those with hidden disabilities.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.