Beautiful train journey ‘teeming with wildlife’ in the UK

A scenic train ride that journeys through beautiful countryside joining the location of a bustling market town to a stunning sandy beach also passes under a “most spectacular” viaduct. Passing through six stations following woodlands and riverside, the journey takes about 35 minutes – and Off-Peak Day Return tickets cost just £6.20.

Passengers begin or end this journey at the ancient non-touristy Cornish town of Liskeard, which sits on the southern fringes of Bodmin Moor. At the other end of the rail line is the pretty seaside town of Looe, also in Cornwall, loved by visitors all year round especially  in spring and summer. The inland town of Liskeard isn’t a typical tourist destination, but it portrays a taste of proper Cornish life for those who like getting away from the crowds in the holiday season.

The Scenic Rail Britain website describes the Looe Valley Line: “You’ll need your camera with you for this journey! The Looe Valley Line is full of beautiful views from picturesque valleys teeming with wildlife to impressive views of the estuary as the East Looe River nears the sea. Bird lovers, be on the look out for wading birds such as little egrets, grey herons, oystercatchers and curlews.”

While on the train, passengers will notice that it has to change direction to complete the journey, adding to the unique vibe of the railway experience along “such a scenic route”.

The six stops on route are Liskeard, Coombe Junction Halt, St Keyne Wishing Well Halt, Causeland, Sandplace and Looe.

Liskeard is said to have “some interesting shops, museums and cafes to explore” along with an “interesting walk which explores some of the industrial heritage of the area” connected to the “mining boom in the 19th century”.

Looe, on the other hand, is very much a tourist hotspot with sandy beaches, independent shops and it sits on the South West Coast Path so there are plenty of coastal walks to explore.

One visitor reviewed the main seaside spot, East Looe Beach on TripAdvisor after a visit last August, describing the beach as “my little slice of coastal bliss”.

They wrote: “If you ever find yourself wandering through the charming streets of Looe, do yourself a favour and head straight to East Looe Beach. I spent the day there and, honestly, it’s the kind of place that makes you forget your phone exists.

“Golden sands stretch out beside the Banjo Pier, with calm waters perfect for swimming or just dipping your toes while watching the boats drift by.

“The beach is clean, family-friendly, and has that classic British seaside vibe – think ice cream in hand, seagulls overhead, and the sound of laughter echoing from the promenade.”

There is however, no service until March on the Looe Valley Line due to flooding and works taking place, but journeys will restart as soon as possible – and replacement buses take just 25 minutes currently.

Great Scenic Railways explained online: “Please note: due to flooding damage and scheduled engineering work, the Looe Valley Line is currently closed and is likely to remain so until March. Rail replacement bus services are operating.”

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