The Night Riviera Sleeper is one of only two sleeper trains remaining on the UK rail network. The author embarks on a journey from London’s Paddington Station to Penzance in Cornwall, opting for this unique travel experience. The train offers 57 cabins, each equipped with amenities such as charging ports, a sink, and comfortable bedding. The crew provides exceptional service, taking individual orders for breakfast and accommodating passengers’ preferences. Despite the absence of showers on board, passengers can book a shower at the first-class lounge in Penzance for the morning.
The journey on the Night Riviera Sleeper begins at 11:45 pm from Paddington Station, with the author finding the motion of the train conducive to a surprisingly restful sleep. Waking up to the sunrise as the train passes through Dawlish in Devon provides stunning views of the Channel and an enjoyable start to the day. The author describes the experience of sitting in the lounge car with a cup of coffee as the train traverses Devon into Cornwall, ultimately arriving in Penzance at 7:50 am. The convenience and comfort of the sleeper train are highlighted, offering a preferable alternative to a tiring drive or domestic flight to the southwest coast.
Booking a ticket for the Riviera Sleeper can be a bit challenging, requiring a regular travel ticket along with a sleeper supplement for the full experience. The price of tickets varies depending on factors such as the day of the week and time of year, with single-bed sleeper and shared cabin options available. While there are standard seating options on board for those who do not secure sleeper car accommodations, the author emphasizes the value of investing in the unique experience of a British sleeper train. By using sustainable travel experts like Byway to handle booking arrangements, the process becomes more streamlined and stress-free for passengers.
Exploring Cornwall without a car is a common concern for travelers taking the train to the region. Penzance serves as a hub for various attractions and onward travel options, including St Michael’s Mount, the Jubilee Pool, and nearby locations like St Ives and Sennen Cove. Bus services, such as the Land’s End Coaster, offer scenic routes around Cornwall for affordable prices, allowing passengers to hop on and off at various points of interest. Alternatively, embracing slow travel by walking to nearby destinations, such as Mousehole for a meal, can provide a more immersive and authentic experience of Cornwall’s charm.
Overall, the author’s experience on the Night Riviera Sleeper highlights the convenience, comfort, and scenic beauty of traveling by sleeper train from London to Penzance. Despite initial hesitations about considering this mode of transportation, the journey proves to be a pleasant and efficient way to reach the southwest tip of the UK. By incorporating sustainable travel solutions and exploring Cornwall’s attractions without a car, the author demonstrates the viability of alternative travel methods for experiencing the region’s beauty and charm.