Trains from London to St. Ives
Why Choose Bus from London to St. Ives
Traveling from London to St. Ives provides an exciting opportunity to explore the beautiful Cornish coast. Choosing the right mode of transportation can significantly enhance your travel experience, ensuring comfort and convenience along the way.
💰 Scenic Views
pros
- The train route offers stunning views of the countryside, particularly as you approach Cornwall, with picturesque landscapes and coastal scenery.
- Travelers can enjoy the changing scenery without the stress of driving or navigating traffic.
cons
- Long journey times may mean prolonged viewing periods, which could be tiring for some passengers.
🛎️ Comfortable Amenities
pros
- Trains from London to St. Ives provide comfortable seating with ample legroom, allowing for a more relaxed travel experience.
- Amenities such as onboard dining options and the ability to move around make the journey pleasant compared to a cramped bus or plane.
cons
- Train services may be limited during peak hours, requiring careful planning to secure a seat.
⭐ Convenience of Station Locations
pros
- London Paddington station is centrally located and easily accessible via public transport, simplifying the start of your journey.
- St. Erth station, the connection point en route to St. Ives, is just a short onward connection to the scenic St. Ives branch line.
cons
- The need to transfer at St. Erth can add complexity for travelers carrying a lot of luggage.
highlights:
The journey duration of approximately 5.5 hours may be longer than expected compared to quick flights or buses.
Trains between London and St. Ives provide unique views not available through bus or flight options.
Comfortable travel experience with the option to move around and enjoy amenities.
Direct access to various Cornish destinations after reaching St. Erth.
Train Options from London to St. Ives
| Type | company | departure station | arrival station | departure time | arrival time | Frequency | Duration | Price Range | layover city |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Connecting | First Great Western Service | Paddington, London | St Ives (Cornwall), St Ives | 06:30, 07:30, 08:30, 09:30, 10:30 | 12:17, 13:17, 14:17, 15:17, 16:17 | Every hour | 5h 30m | £ 142-297 | St Erth |
| Connecting | GWR | Paddington, London | St Ives (Cornwall), St Ives | 05:30, 06:40, 07:45 | 11:17, 12:27, 13:34 | Twice daily | 5h 47m | £ 142-297 | St Erth |
| Connecting | GWR | Paddington, London | St Ives (Cornwall), St Ives | 08:00, 09:00, 10:00 | 14:20, 15:20, 16:20 | Every hour | 5h 46m | £ 142-297 | Plymouth,St Erth |
Comparison of Train Operators from London to St. Ives
Comparing train operators on the route from London to St. Ives is important for travelers looking to make informed decisions based on price, amenities, and accessibility. Understanding the differences can enhance the travel experience and meet individual needs effectively.
| Criteria | First Great Western Service (GWR) | Train Operator 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Price Range | £ 142 - £ 297 | £ 130 - £ 275 |
| pricing policies | ||
| refund policy | Tickets can be refunded up to 14 days in advance for a fee of 10%. | Refunds are permitted until departure for a service fee of £5. |
| Ticket Changes | Changes are allowed with an additional fee of £10 up to 2 hours before departure. | Flexible tickets allow for changes without fees. |
| discounts | Family and group discounts are available on selected tickets. | Senior citizen and student discounts available. |
| amenities | Free Wi-Fi, Onboard catering service, Power outlets at seats, Reserved seating available | Complimentary beverages, Quiet carriages, Luggage storage areas, Traveling with pets policy |
| baggage allowance | ||
| Additional Fees | £20 for each additional checked bag over the allowance. | £15 for oversized luggage. |
| accessibility | The trains have step-free access, dedicated spaces for wheelchairs, and assistance available upon request. | Full accessibility features including wheelchair ramps, tactile boarding assistance, and audio announcements. |
Travelers should weigh the differences between operators, particularly in terms of pricing, amenities, and accessibility options. Those prioritizing convenience and comfort may prefer GWR, while budget-conscious travelers may find Train Operator 2 more appealing. Overall, assess individual travel needs before making a choice.
Train Stops and Stations from London to St. Ives
Knowing the details about train stations can significantly enhance your travel experience between London and St. Ives.
Main Train Stations in London
London Paddington
facilities
- Restrooms available throughout the station
- Waiting areas with ample seating
- Ticket counters and self-service kiosks for easy ticket purchasing
- Luggage storage lockers for secure storage
- Free Wi-Fi available in station
- Various food and beverage options including cafés and vending machines
- ATMs and currency exchange services on-site
- Accessible features, including ramps and elevators for easy navigation
Transportation Links
- Public buses connecting to various parts of London
- The London Underground (Metro) with Bakerloo, Circle, District, and Hammersmith & City lines
- Accessibility to taxi services and rideshare options like Uber
- Parking facilities available for private vehicles, though limited
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your departure time for a stress-free boarding experience
- Familiarize yourself with security procedures, as bags may be checked at entry points
- Try to avoid peak hours from 8 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 6 PM to minimize crowding
- Explore nearby amenities such as shops and restaurants if you have extra time
Main Train Stations in St. Ives
St. Ives (Cornwall) Railway Station
facilities
- Restroom facilities available for travelers
- Limited waiting areas for passengers
- Information desk for assistance and ticket sales
- Luggage storage not available on-site
- Limited food options, mainly vending machines
- Free Wi-Fi access in waiting areas
- Accessible features include ramps for mobility devices
Transportation Links
- Local bus services connecting to nearby towns and attractions
- Taxi services available outside the station
- Limited parking available for those traveling by car
- Arrive 15 minutes before the scheduled arrival time to ensure a smooth disembarkation
- Be aware of potential delays in service during peak tourist seasons
- Consider checking local attractions and eateries close to the station for immediate plans after arrival
- Dress appropriately for weather changes, as St. Ives can be breezy and coastal
En Route Stops
Reading
facilities
- Restrooms available
- Small waiting area
- Coffee shop located nearby
Exeter St David's
facilities
- Restrooms and waiting areas
- Ticket counters for assistance
- Food kiosks and vending machines
Truro
facilities
- Restrooms on-site
- Accessibility features
- Limited food options
Understanding the features and amenities of the train stations will help streamline your journey and enhance your overall travel experience. Be sure to familiarize yourself with these details to ensure a smooth transit from London to St. Ives.
Travel Tips
⛰ Choose the Right Time
Travel during off-peak hours to enjoy a quieter journey and take advantage of potentially lower fares. Early morning or late evening trains often offer a more relaxed atmosphere.
📍 Window Seats for Scenic Views
Book a window seat on the right side of the train for stunning views of the countryside as you travel through Devon and Cornwall. Be sure to keep your camera ready as you pass by picturesque villages and the rolling hills.
🚍 Plan for Refreshments
Bring along some local snacks or a picnic to enjoy during the journey. While the train may have a café car, nothing beats the taste of Cornish pasties or other local treats you can savor while watching the landscape pass by.
🎭 Look Out for Festivals
Check the local event calendar before traveling. If your trip coincides with the various festivals in towns like St Ives, such as the St Ives Food and Drink Festival, take the opportunity to discover more about the local culture and cuisine during your visit.
🏛 Explore Key Stops
Consider making brief stops along your route, such as at Exeter or Plymouth. These towns have beautiful attractions worth exploring, including the historic Barbican area in Plymouth and the stunning Exeter Cathedral.
FAQ
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