Getting around Devon and Cornwall by train has some big advantages over driving. The railway passes through some of the best rural and coastal scenery and avoids the hassle and expense of parking.

Whether you want to travel by local train or historic steam train, there are some great rail trips around your holiday home in Devon and Cornwall. Explore the coast with its many bridges, visit the historic naval port city of Plymouth or travel quickly and easily between the north and south coast. For children it is an unforgettable adventure and for adults it may be a trip down memory lane.

Book a self catering holiday home in Devon or Cornwall and enjoy a great base for exploring this beautiful area on foot, by car or by local train.

Visiting Cornwall is pleasant at any time of the year but have you considered combining your visit with one of the traditional celebrations or festivals?

From literature festivals to dancing in the streets and celebrating the best of Cornish food there are events to see and traditions to mark all year round. Visit in May for the Padstow Obby Oss or listen out for unique Cornish Carols at Christmas in a chapel or local pub. Learn something about the heritage of this beautiful county when you visit.

Plan your holiday in Cornwall around one of many celebrations held during the year.

Cornwall has its customs and local dialect rich in tradition and easy to pick up in conversation. Guessing the meaning can add an interesting flavour to your holiday memories.

It starts by hearing an odd expression that you don’t quite understand followed by a puzzled look as if to say, “Did I just hear that?” You have just encountered Cornish dialect, different to Cornish language, and widely spoken in rural areas. Part of the great Cornish holiday experience, going home without hearing it would not be the same experience.

Take time to learn a few words as you tour the county and start speaking like the locals.

Visitors will find that Cornwall has plenty of attractions, but one of the best days out is a visit to the nearby Isles of Scilly, by boat or by Sikorsky helicopter.

Tresco makes a great day out from Penzance and has something for everyone. Gardeners and photographers will love the terraced Abbey Gardens, walkers can explore the coastal paths along the cliffs, beachlovers can find their own private sandy cove and food-lovers will appreciate lunch on the terrace at the acclaimed Island Hotel restaurant.

No matter how many times you holiday in Cornwall there is always somewhere new to explore. Book your holiday now to begin your next Cornish adventure.

Those who are passionate about good food will find plenty of wonderful places to dine in Cornwall, generally off-the-beaten path and advertised only by word of mouth.

Those who think a self-catering holiday in Cornwall means dining on Cornish pasties and soggy fish and chips should think again. Many acclaimed chefs choose to live and work in Cornwall for the availability of good locally sourced produce and the slower pace of life. Whether you want a Michelin-star restaurant or just a good value pub lunch, Cornwall offers plenty of choice if you know where to look.

Our recommended restaurants will no doubt whet your appetite to book your next holiday in Cornwall.

Close to Torquay and Paignton lies the small town of Totnes, that in character and atmosphere is million miles from the hustle and bustle of modern life.

There is not another town in England like Totnes and on market day you will be greeted by an array of unique products from all over the world, and at prices that will amaze you. The eating options range from the most basic café to some of the best restaurants in the South West and it only takes one visit to Totnes to fall in love with the place.

Want to experience Totnes for yourself? Find out more about this lovely town.

To taste the best apple pie in the world, head to Devon on the last Saturday in July and experience for yourself a delicious piece of apple pie and glorious clotted cream.

Marldon is a small traditional South Devon village which sits tucked away between Torquay and Paignton. Since 1888 it‘s hosted an annual pie bake-off that puts other baking competitions to shame, at a fair that is unlike anything else you will have ever seen. The Marldon Apple Pie Fair will be an experience that you will not forget in a hurry and one that you will want to repeat, year after year.

Tempted by a piece of pie? Then read on to get a larger slice of the apple pie story.

Everyone who visits Torquay expects a fun packed beach holiday. However for the adventurous, it offers a high-flying experience that deffinately should not to be missed.

The first thing that takes everyone’s attention when they arrive in Torquay is the Balloon which is situated on the sea front. This white mass which dominates the skyline should be the first thing on every holidaymakers to do list and the views from it will simply take your breath away. It is perfectly safe and the experience will stay with you for ever.

To find out why The Balloon is Torquay’s hot ticket, read on.

Offering exceptional sandy beaches, tons of activities, and many opportunities for fine dining, Newquay has endless possibilities for couples and families, and has accommodation to fit any budget.

This fun and funky seaside resort has miles of soft, sandy beaches, as well as excellent surfing, fishing, and any other activity you can think of. Within the town limits you will find hiking trails, sailing, spas and pretty much anything else you need to have a fantastic vacation.

Find out why Newquay is the most popular place for tourists in the UK and book your holiday now, or click to discover more about this amazing place.