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In this day and age, travelling via carriage is regarded as a thing of the past.
But what if you want to try this historic mode of travel on your own? Picture this: the rolling hills of Cornwall and the bustling streets of London, all experienced through the old-school charm of a horse-drawn carriage. Sounds quite fascinating, doesn’t it?
That’s why, in this guide, we’re diving into the delightful details of this horse-drawn adventure, where time seems to slow down, and the landscapes evolve from cityscapes to coastal beauty. If you’ve ever wondered how long it’d take to travel between them in a classic carriage, you’re in for a historical journey.
So, saddle up as we explore the scenic route, recounting the hours and vistas that separate Cornwall and London in the leisurely pace of a carriage ride.
How Can You Travel To Cornwall From London By Carriage?
Broadly speaking, the distance between London and Cornwall is over 200 miles. This distance may vary depending on the exact destination in Cornwall and the route taken. In any case, such a long-distance journey requires patience and a trusty draft horse.
The relaxing journey, while lengthier and more environmentally friendly than today’s rapid transport options, offers an intimate connection with the English countryside. Departing from the urban buzz of Central London, the voyage leads towards mesmerising landscapes, such as the golden beaches and the captivating St. Michael’s Mount.
In general, the journey time from Cornwall to London, or vice versa, takes roughly around 10 to 12 hours of constant travel. So, a round trip from London to Cornwall and back to London will take an entire day’s time.
Of course, this is assuming you travel non-stop without taking any breaks in between. The actual journey times vary greatly depending on several factors, such as weather and traffic conditions.
Moreover, you need to consider the stamina of both the horse and the traveller. A typical horse has a much lower top speed than cars or trains and can travel only around 30 to 100 miles at a stretch. So, you will need to take rest stops every hour or so.
Furthermore, it would be a waste not to make some stops to admire the scenic routes of Southwest England. That is one of the primary reasons for choosing such a mode of travel in the first place.
However, if you make such stops in between, the overall journey time will be lengthened even more. So, if you travel from London to Cornwall via carriage, you may need to spend a day or two on the road at the very least.
What Are The Other Modes Of Transport Available Between London And Cornwall?
Let’s be honest – while horse-drawn carriages definitely offer a charming experience, they are not very efficient or cost-effective, especially when direct trains and other modes of public transport exist. So, if you wish to save some time on the trip, you can go with any of the following options below.
1. Rail
For those seeking a blend of convenience and comfort, the Great Western Railway offers a seamless train ride between London Paddington and Cornwall. With the option to relax in their First Class lounge, complete with power sockets and free WiFi, the journey can be as productive or relaxing as desired. The journey will take you through several picturesque locations like Exeter St. Davids, Bodmin Parkway, Truro and others.
Another enchanting choice is the Night Riviera Sleeper Train. Departing from London Paddington, this train offers cosy cabins for an overnight adventure to Cornwall. Fall asleep in the heart of London and wake up in Penzance, which lies near the captivating St. Ives and Land’s End.
Besides, there are other express trains that can transport you from London to St. Austell in approximately four hours, allowing you to admire the scenic countryside along the way.
2. Air
If you want a more direct route, you can try travelling to Cornwall by flight. Both London Gatwick Airport and London Heathrow provide flights to Cornwall, delivering travellers to Newquay Cornwall Airport in approximately two hours. This option is particularly appealing if time is of the essence.
3. Bus Or Coach
For the budget-conscious traveller, National Express offers coach services from London to various destinations in Cornwall. These coaches usually provide free Wi-Fi on board, along with other amenities like toilets and luggage storage, all of which can make the journey convenient.
What’s more, they stop at various places along the way before they arrive at the destination, allowing you to enjoy the scenery. And while the journey can take longer, it’s an economical way to explore the landscapes and unwind.
4. Driving
If you fancy a road trip, driving by car presents the opportunity to explore off-the-beaten-path spots. The journey from London to Cornwall by car, depending on traffic conditions, typically takes around four to five hours. With the flexibility to stop at charming towns or admire the English countryside, a car trip allows you to set your own pace.
Most drivers prefer to take the M3, A303 and A30 to get from London to Cornwall. However, you can take an alternative route following the M4, M5 and A30 as well.
Conclusion
There is no doubt about the fact that the journey between London and Cornwall via a horse-drawn carriage is a long one. However, the overall experience can be a rewarding one, even if it may seem arduous at times.
After all, in the age where horse-drawn carriages were the norm, traversing this distance was an adventure of its own. The route takes you from the iconic cityscape of London to the serene coastal beauty of this Southwestern county.
However, if you do not want to spend too much time on such a trip, then we understand. In that case, you can travel part of the way in these carriages while covering the remaining journey via any of the other options mentioned above.
After all, it is up to you to decide how you can enjoy the trip in the best possible manner.
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