A travel and food content creator called George Kimm has shared his experience of taking an overnight sleeper train from London to Cornwall – but the price left people shocked
A man shared his experience travelling on an overnight sleeper train from London to Cornwall (stock photo)(Image: Greg Martin / Cornwall Live)
Cornwall is widely regarded as one of the most breathtaking counties in the UK, boasting golden sandy beaches, a spectacular sweeping coastline, world-class surfing spots and jaw-dropping clifftop scenery. And it’s not just locals who are smitten with this South West gem — visitors from across the country regularly make the journey down.
One such traveller is George Kimm, a UK-based travel and food content creator. George made the trip from London to Cornwall aboard an overnight sleeper train, documenting his experience on Instagram. He hopped on the Great Western Railway (GWR) Night Riviera, which departs from London Paddington and pulls into Penzance the following morning, with the entire journey clocking in at just over eight hours.
The travel enthusiast gave his candid verdict on the experience, though one particular detail caught his Instagram followers off guard — the price. George booked a “very cosy” solo cabin, which came equipped with a single bed, a table that doubled up as a sink, a wardrobe and handy storage space beneath the bed, which he described as “very useful”. GWR also provided a selection of amenities, including soap.
George did point out that the toilets are located outside the cabins. However, aside from that, the train operator “really had thought of everything else”.
The London-based creator went on to say: “Before we left London Paddington I had a look in the onboard bar where you can sit down, relax. They also provide free tea and coffee with biscuits and when it comes to going to sleep, I actually had a really good experience.”
After getting settled and having a look around, George watched the train depart the station before heading off to bed. He revealed that he relished the sounds and motion of the train, as they lulled him off to sleep.
When George stirred the following morning, he tucked into breakfast, which came as part of his cabin fare. He opted for a cup of tea and a sausage bap, noting that it was “very delicious”.
The travel enthusiast added: “And it was so lovely to have my breakfast whilst watching the countryside whizz by.”
He wrapped up his Instagram reel by revealing what his trip and cabin had set him back, saying: “My ticket cost £119 and an additional £149 for the cabin.” George reckoned it was “such a cool experience” nodding off in London and coming round in Cornwall. He believed it was “honestly so worth it” and something he’d gladly repeat.
One commenter observed: “£75 return to Paris, just saying.” George responded: “Totally get it. This was a bucket list trip.” Another remarked: “Looks fun but the price is insane.”
A third astonished viewer queried: “Omg… how much?” Someone else went as far as branding the price “criminal.”
Despite the hefty price tag, some viewers still managed to see the bright side, with one commenting: “This looks like a great experience but it’s very costly for a return journey. I guess the benefit is both journeys are during the night so you aren’t losing out on any holiday time.”
A second chimed in: “Would love to do this!! Honestly would see the cost as part of the holiday, so special.”
For those travelling with Great Western Railway’s Night Riviera service, an airline-style seat is available at no additional cost when booking a ticket, with prices for a private cabin starting from £49 per person.