| First train | 04:11 | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 00:24 | |
| Departure station | Manchester Piccadilly | |
| Arrival station | Truro | |
| Journey time | From 6h 36m | |
| Distance | 253 miles (407 km) | |
| Frequency | 39 trains per day | |
| Changes | 1 change | |
| Price | From £46.80 | |
| Train operators | Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales |
Travelling from Manchester to Cornwall by train is a fantastic alternative to flying. Taking a CrossCountry train from Manchester Piccadilly to Exeter St David's, before a Great Western Railway service from there onto Truro, this is a scenic route not to be missed. CrossCountry trains all come with a First Class option. There's a buffet car on most trains, if not, then a buffet cart will provide an at-seat service. All CrossCountry trains on this route come with a Quiet Coach, while those travelling in First Class can enjoy complimentary WiFi (passengers in Standard can pay a small fee for the service).
Visit our Great Western Railway page for more information about their onboard services, for the second part of your journey.
The train from Manchester to Truro will take you into the heart of Cornwall, and give you a chance to see some wonderful sights along the South Coast. After travelling down through the West Midlands and Somerset via a CrossCountry train, it’s time to change at Exeter St David’s for a Great Western Railway journey along the coast. Make sure to grab a seat on the left, as this will give you a front-row seat along the Dawlish Sea Wall. Here is where the train line travels just metres from the sea, giving you endless views of the English Channel out to the horizon. For over 10 miles, this view is one of the most picturesque on the whole British rail network. After heading inland and skirting the edge of Dartmoor National Park, you’ll pass through Plymouth and continue into Cornwall. After crossing the famous Royal Albert Bridge, you’ll continue to meander through Cornwall, before finally reaching Truro.
For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.