A Positive, Practical Look at Reconnecting Bude by Rail.
Connect Bude is pleased to share a newly completed study that explores realistic options for improving rail connectivity for North Cornwall, including the long‑standing ambition of better rail access for Bude.
The report, Upper Tamar Railway: An Alternative Rail Route to Bude, North Cornwall, authored by Adrian Gannon & supported by David Hill-Smith (January 2026), takes a calm, evidence‑led look at what could be possible in the future — and just as importantly, what would need to happen first.
This is not a campaign announcement or a promise of imminent construction. Instead, it is exactly the kind of groundwork that communities like ours need: thoughtful analysis, engineering realism, and a clear understanding of constraints.
Starting with What Is Achievable
The study builds on existing work looking at extending the Dartmoor Line beyond Okehampton towards Launceston, broadly following the A30 corridor. This is a strategically important starting point. Without rail returning to Launceston, any direct link to Bude remains extremely challenging under current national transport policy.
The findings are encouraging in that respect. Aside from two major engineering challenges — the descent from Sourton Down and crossing the River Tamar — the route is considered broadly suitable for a modern railway capable of fast passenger services and freight.
Importantly, the report suggests that a station near Liftondown, adjacent to the A30, could act as a future interchange point. Even on its own, this could deliver significant benefits for North Cornwall by improving east–west connectivity and access to the wider rail network.
What This Means for Bude
For Bude, the report outlines a credible long‑term pathway rather than a single unrealistic leap.
Rather than assuming a direct heavy‑rail extension immediately to the coast, the study explores:
- A future branch line from Launceston towards Bude, potentially following the Upper Tamar Valley
- The option of light rail, which could reduce costs and engineering constraints
- Multiple possible railhead locations serving the greater Bude area, rather than forcing a town‑centre terminus
This approach reflects modern best practice: serving communities effectively while balancing cost, environmental impact, and deliverability. Of the potential Bude‑area railheads considered, Red Post Cross emerges as particularly promising.
The study highlights several advantages:
- Strong road connectivity
- Ability to serve Bude, Kilkhampton, Holsworthy, North Devon, and surrounding communities
- Alignment with the historic Upper Tamar corridor used by the Bude Canal
- Lower engineering complexity compared to alternatives
- Opportunities for integration with future development
Crucially, this is about access, not nostalgia. The aim is a solution that works for today’s travel patterns — including commuting, education, healthcare, and sustainable tourism.
A Sensible Conclusion
The report is refreshingly honest about challenges. It identifies specific areas requiring further investigation, including river crossings, flood risk in the Upper Tamar valley, and interactions with existing roads. It also stresses the importance of designing any future route with 2050 flood predictions in mind.
This matters. Sustainable transport must also be resilient transport. The study’s conclusion is clear and responsible:
No further work on a Bude branch should proceed until the case for extending rail to Launceston has been properly assessed.
If that hurdle is passed, then – and only then – would more detailed engineering and environmental studies for a Bude connection make sense. This staged approach protects public money while keeping long‑term opportunities open.
Why This Matters
For communities like Bude, poor rail connectivity is not a minor inconvenience. It affects:
- Access to jobs and education
- Health appointments and hospital travel
- Business growth and inward investment
- Tourism without car dependency
- Social inclusion for those who cannot drive
This study does not claim to solve these issues overnight. What it does do is move the conversation forward — away from vague aspirations and towards credible, evidence‑based possibilities.
Connect Bude welcomes this work and thanks everyone involved for taking North Cornwall’s connectivity seriously. We will continue to support constructive, realistic discussions that improve access, opportunity, and resilience for our community.
If you would like to read the full study or get involved in Connect Bude’s transport work, please get in touch.
