Train

Rail travelers can make use of a fast service connecting Exeter, Plymouth, and Penzance. Great Western Railway and South Western Railway serve the region from London's Paddington and Waterloo stations. Average travel time to Exeter is 2½ hours, to Plymouth 3¼ hours, and to Penzance about 5½ hours. Once you've arrived, however, you'll find trains to be of limited use in the West Country, as only a few branch lines leave the main line between Exeter and Penzance.

Freedom of the South West tickets provide three days of unlimited travel throughout the West Country in any seven-day period or eight days in any 15-day period. Localized Ranger passes cover Devon or Cornwall.

Contacts

National Rail Enquiries. 0345/748–4950; www.nationalrail.co.uk.