Cornwall by steam in 2024

Today, you can still travel around Cornwall by steam, albeit at a more leisurely pace, with The Railway Touring Company. Although not heading for Penzance as the famous Cornish Riviera Express did, the ‘Royal Duchy’ takes a scenic route from Bristol, with the added thrill of a run along the wall at Dawlish.

Heading to Cornwall via Brunel’s Royal Albert Bridge over the Tamar, the ‘Royal Duchy’ passes through the magnificent Cornish countryside to Par, where there is an option to visit the picturesque seaside town of Fowey or the harbor village of Charlestown. The dates are Sundays, July 28, August 18 and September 1.

Summer steam, scenic routes and seaside fun

The “Royal Duchy” is one of a wide range of steam tours from The Railway Touring Company. Around 80 departures each year include: summer steamers to the seaside resorts of Bournemouth, Minehead and Weymouth; visits to historic cities such as Chester and York; and dramatic routes including the Settle and Carlisle Line and the North Wales Coast.

In another nod to rail history, The Railway Touring Company’s ‘End of Southern Steam’ train runs from London Victoria to Weymouth on July 9, stopping at Yeovil Railway Center where the locomotive will be serviced.

The best small travel company for rail holidays

Named ‘Best Small Travel Company for Rail Holidays’ at the British Travel Awards 2023, The Railway Touring Company also offers railway themed holidays. The interesting heritage railway routes, many with steam, travel through England, Ireland, Scotland, Wales, Alsace, Austria, Germany, Norway, Poland and Switzerland. Further afield, their rail adventures explore Canada, Colorado and the Rockies, India and Sri Lanka.

www.railwaytouring.net