Inspirational Journeys by Train - Explore the UNESCO South West Trails

From ancient stone circles and dramatic coastlines to places shaped by industry and culture, the South West of England is home to some of the world’s most remarkable places. Recognised by UNESCO for their Outstanding Universal Value, these landscapes and townscapes tell powerful stories about humanity, nature and our evolving relationship with the planet.

Even better, many of these extraordinary sites are easy to reach by train and public transport, making it simple to explore sustainably while enjoying some of the UK’s most spectacular scenery along the way.

We’re delighted to be working in partnership with UNESCO‑designated sites across the South West to showcase a series of curated trails that bring these destinations to life inviting you to Explore UNESCO South West Trails in conjunction with GWR. Spanning eight UNESCO sites, each two‑day itinerary begins at a local railway station on the GWR network and uses public transport to connect visitors with inspiring landscapes, heritage sites and cultural experiences.

Tracks and Stories – Into the Heart of the Mining Landscape, is a two‑day journey by train through the tranquil Tamar Valley (Area A10) and then onto the historic mining towns of Camborne and Redruth (Area A5). Once alive with industry and innovation, these areas reveal how mining shaped communities, transport and the wider landscape. Railways were once vital for moving minerals; today they offer a sustainable way to rediscover this extraordinary heritage. This is just a taste of what the Cornwall and West Devon Mining Landscape World Heritage Site has to offer, each of the 10 Areas has its own distinctive character, from windswept moorland mines to coastal harbours and historic market towns – You will definitely want to come back for more!

This initiative is supported by UNESCO’s Local to Global programme, funded by The National Lottery Heritage Fund, connecting local exploration with global sustainability goals.