Looe Valley Line
A charming 30-minute train journey through Cornwall's lush river valleys, connecting Liskeard to the seaside town of Looe.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful journey
Looe Valley Line
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful journey
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A charming 30-minute train journey through Cornwall's lush river valleys, connecting Liskeard to the seaside town of Looe.
"The beautiful and scenic Looe Valley line winds its way along curves, river banks, and sleepy stations."
🎟️ Book Return Tickets
The return fare is very reasonable! Consider booking a round trip for a seamless experience.
📸 Capture the Views
The journey offers stunning countryside and river vistas. Keep your camera ready!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Scenic River Valley Views
Between Liskeard and Looe
Watch the East Looe River snake through lush green valleys on this breathtaking 30-minute journey.
Charming Seaside Arrival
Looe
Arrive in the picturesque fishing town of Looe, perfect for exploring quirky shops and enjoying fresh seafood.
Historic Liskeard Station
Liskeard
Start your journey from Liskeard, home to an old ticket office and museum detailing the line's history.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tickets in Advance
Embrace the Pace
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎟️ Book Return Tickets
The return fare is very reasonable! Consider booking a round trip for a seamless experience.
📸 Capture the Views
The journey offers stunning countryside and river vistas. Keep your camera ready! 
🚶♀️ Explore Looe Town
Looe is a lovely seaside town with shops and pubs. Allow time to wander after your train ride.
☕ Try Local Pasties
Sarah's Pasty Shop in Looe is highly recommended by travelers!
Tips
from all over the internet
🎟️ Book Return Tickets
The return fare is very reasonable! Consider booking a round trip for a seamless experience.
📸 Capture the Views
The journey offers stunning countryside and river vistas. Keep your camera ready!
🚶♀️ Explore Looe Town
Looe is a lovely seaside town with shops and pubs. Allow time to wander after your train ride.
☕ Try Local Pasties
Sarah's Pasty Shop in Looe is highly recommended by travelers!
🕰️ Check Timetable
Timetables can vary. Always check the Great Western Railway site before you travel.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers rave about the Looe Valley Line's beautiful scenery and charming, relaxed atmosphere. The journey is consistently praised for its picturesque route along the river and its affordable fares, making it a delightful experience for all ages. Some minor points of feedback include the need to check timetables carefully and the limited onboard amenities.
"The beautiful and scenic Looe Valley line winds it's way from platform 3 at Liskeard along curves, river banks, sleepy stations and a reversal at Coombe junction.
At Liskeard there is the old ticket office and museum with various artifacts of the line and it's history, it's free to visit before or after your trip down the valley.
Looe is a pretty seaside town with lots of history, quirky shops, pubs and cafes and of course gets busy in the summer months."
Glen Allen
"The picturesque Looe Valley Line runs between Liskeard and Looe, where the railway follows the East Looe River valley for much of the way and runs right alongside the estuary. We had been meaning to travel the GWR route for some time and were not disappointed when we finally managed to. The dedicated platform for the community line at Liskeard is almost like an annex to the main station, which is around the corner 150 yards up the road. Handy parking is adjacent. The scenic journey takes around 30 minutes in each direction and the return fare was a very reasonable £5.50. There are a number of request-only halts along the way. Recommended."
Mike Betts
"Great views.along the line"
Nick Wood
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Looe Valley Line runs between Liskeard and Looe. You can access Liskeard station from the main Cornish line. Parking is available near the Liskeard station.
While the train is the primary way to experience the line, you can drive to both Liskeard and Looe. Parking is available in both towns.
The most scenic and recommended way is by train, enjoying the 30-minute journey through the valley.
Yes, you can take a train from Plymouth to Liskeard, and then connect to the Looe Valley Line.
Yes, there are a number of request-only halts along the way, so be sure to signal the driver if you wish to alight.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Return fares are very reasonable, often around £5.50. It's best to check the Great Western Railway website for current pricing.
Tickets can be purchased at Liskeard station or online via the Great Western Railway website.
While not always essential, booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak tourist seasons, to guarantee your seat.
Check the Great Western Railway website for potential railcard discounts or special offers.
The line operates on a specific timetable, usually daily. Always consult the Great Western Railway website for the most current timetable.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire journey offers stunning views of the river, valley, and countryside. Key spots include curves along the river banks and the approach to Looe.
Yes, many travelers find it easy to capture great shots from the train windows.
A standard camera or smartphone is sufficient. Consider a lens that can capture both wide landscapes and details.
While the train itself is the focus for many, the journey offers scenic backdrops. Trainspotters might find specific locations along the line interesting.
Mornings and late afternoons often provide beautiful light for photography, especially during autumn.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Looe is a seaside town with numerous pubs, cafes, and seafood restaurants.
Typically, there are no food services on the train itself. It's best to eat before or after your journey.
Fresh seafood and traditional Cornish pasties are highly recommended. Sarah's Pasty Shop is a popular choice.
Liskeard has various cafes and pubs where you can grab a bite before or after your train journey.
While not explicitly prohibited, it's generally best to enjoy picnics in designated areas in Looe or Liskeard to maintain the train's ambiance.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1Arriving in Looe offers a classic seaside experience with a beach for playing and plenty of fish and chip shops. Consider packing some snacks and drinks for the train, as there are no onboard services. The ease of travel and the picturesque surroundings make it a stress-free and enjoyable outing for families looking for a taste of Cornwall's charm.
🚶♀️ Budget Travelers
Pack your own snacks and water to save on costs, and enjoy the stunning views that are essentially free entertainment. Both Liskeard and Looe offer plenty of free activities like exploring the towns and enjoying the natural scenery. It's a great option for travelers looking for beautiful landscapes without a hefty price tag.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
+1Consider traveling during the 'golden hours' of early morning or late afternoon for the best light. The historic Liskeard station also presents photographic interest, and the arrival into the bustling harbor town of Looe offers a different, more coastal aesthetic.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Scenic Journey: What to Expect
+1Travelers often describe the experience as a 'joy ride' and a 'scenic delight'. The train winds through lush green valleys, past sleepy stations, and offers glimpses of rural life. As the train approaches Looe, the views open up, with the estuary providing a beautiful prelude to the coastal town. This slow-paced journey is perfect for those looking to relax and soak in the natural beauty of Cornwall.
Key features of the journey include the unique reversal at Coombe Junction and the dedicated platform at Liskeard, which feels like an annex to the main station. The line is a testament to community rail, offering a vital link and a delightful experience for both locals and tourists.
Exploring Looe and Liskeard
Looe itself is a quintessential Cornish seaside town, brimming with character. It boasts a pretty harbor, a sandy beach, and a maze of quirky shops, traditional pubs, and excellent cafes. It's a popular destination, especially in the summer months, offering a perfect blend of coastal charm and lively atmosphere. Don't miss the chance to try some fresh local seafood or a classic Cornish pasty from a local bakery like Sarah's.
Both towns serve as excellent starting or ending points for exploring the wider region. The Looe Valley Line provides a convenient and scenic way to connect these two distinct Cornish experiences, making it a highlight for many visitors.
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