As the saying goes, it’s not about the destination but the journey that counts. The same can be said about the following walks, which all lead to destinations that are well worth the effort it takes to get there.

These walks combine some of the most scenic train journeys in the South West with a short walk along the Coast Path, taking in popular seaside destinations along the way.

There’s a variety of options from different mainline stations and branch lines, including the North Devon coast from Barnstaple, North Cornwall from Newquay, West Cornwall from St Ives and Penzance, as well as the South Cornwall coast from Falmouth and Looe.

The East Devon and Dorset coasts are also accessible by train from Exmouth and Weymouth, while the X53 Jurassic Coast bus provides easy links with the Coast Path at a number of locations.

Wherever you happen to visit in the region, let the train take the strain out of travelling and enjoy the beautiful South West coast and countryside on foot.

Or try one of these Rail ale trails from Devon and Cornwall Rail Partnership.

BarnstapleBarnstapleThe Tarka Line

FalmouthFalmouthThe Maritime line

ExmouthExmouthThe Avocet Line

LooeLooeThe Looe Valley Line

NewquayNewquayThe Atlantic Line

PenzancePenzanceThe Great West Terminus

St IvesSt IvesThe St Ives Line

English RivieraEnglish RivieraThe Riviera Line