I had some great experiences traveling around England by train recently, like when I was on a train from Plymouth to London Paddington. It offered tea, sandwiches and snacks about every twenty minutes via trolley. Many other items were free such as bottles of water, bags of peanuts and shortbread, which I really liked.
When there was a wait between trains I either went inside at larger stations (Plymouth) or walked around outside looking for interesting views. The train ride to St Ives was beautiful and I managed to get a good seat so I could take some pictures. The areas surrounding many of the stations were also lovely, especially at places outside of cities.
Station gate
In case it rains…
From a shop at the Plymouth station
At the St Ives station
Train to St Ives
Getting closer to St Ives…
I didn’t expect to see these scenes by one of the stations…
Meg Travels 
Sounds like you were on the Virgin train as they have the trolleys of goodies, although I frequently use that service and have never had free water or shortbread (a favourite!)
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I’d like to try that train sometime! I had a BritRail pass with a first class ticket for the longer rides (London to Plymouth). I was amazed there were so many treats that were free of charge!
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We just LOVE the trains in Europe. The stations are so organized and usually beautiful and the ride on the train is always delightful (usually) and the services offered are fantastic.
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That has been my experience with trains too – I think that they are a wonderful way to get around!
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Taking the train in Europe is a real treat.
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I agree! Train rides are really enjoyable and relaxing too… :)
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Travelling by train is a great way to get around – so relaxing. And it’s a great bonus when a train follows a scenic route.
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It was so nice to get a window seat and spend the time looking out and admiring the delightful scenery along the way… :)
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I agree – train travel in Europe is special. I always remember getting great Panini sandwiches just outside the train cars in Italy! And we would enjoy them while travelling to our next destination!
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That sounds like a great memory for you! Delicious food is very important while traveling by train… :)
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There are some very pretty Victorian stations near to us and I can never believe when I get the train how they’ve managed to survive!
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You must look forward to seeing those stations – they sound charming!
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This looks like SUCH fun !!!!
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It was a great adventure and lots of fun!
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There’s nothing quite like travelling by train, but free snacks? I’ don’t think I’ve ever had that on a train (I should travel first class). It makes a change to read something so positive about British rail travel, we’re always moaning about our trains.
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I had such friendly and helpful service both on the trains and at the stations that I’d have to say it was an excellent experience!
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I’m delighted to hear it! :-)
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Thanks Lorna!
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Sounds like train travel is fun in England, Meg. Nice photos, especially the last two!
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It was really fun! Thank you Shirley… :)
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I envy you for all of your wonderful travels, Meg! But what I admire most about you is the joy you find everywhere you go…it’s a true gift. Keep on keeping on, and keep posting about it!!!
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Thank you so much Elisa! I really do love to travel and it’s so exciting to see places I’ve always wanted to go. Somehow the list never seems to get any shorter… :)
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Free!!! I’ve never managed that, Meg. I’m mostly on the bus :(
I like the look of that sculpture at St Ives, though I can’t quite figure what it represents :)
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It was unusual for me too and I thought it was great! I’m wondering if the sculpture is supposed to represent dolphins…?
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Ahh, the light slowly dawns :)
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I might have made a good guess… :)
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I love that journey down to St Ives on the train – the views across the huge wide sandy beached when you are almost there are just stunning.
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They were gorgeous views – the train ride to St Ives was amazing!
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It has been years since I was on a train in Europe…the last time being a trip from London to Scotland.
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That must have been an interesting trip, especially since you still remember it!
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It was interesting because it was so hot that the tracks were buckling and the train had to keep stopping for safety factors.
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I can see why you would remember that – you must have been happy when you got to Scotland!
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Absolutely!
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I’m afraid I would have started down that last pathway and missed the train leaving!
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I almost did the same thing! I had to stop and go back so I didn’t miss the train… :)
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