Great Little Trains of Wales

Twelve little steam railways located in stunning scenery across Wales

steam train trips south wales

Railway Locations

Experience the beautiful Welsh countryside: on little railways that are passionate about providing a warm welcome and an amazing experience. Take your time as we transport you on a relaxed journey, an ideal little excursion.

Rheilffordd Llyn Tegid (Bala Lake Railway), a 9-mile return journey alongside Bala Lake in Snowdonia National Park. All trains start and finish at Llanuwchllyn station with its café, locomotive sheds and heritage centre.

The steam railway that runs high into the Brecon Beacons on a 10-mile round trip, surrounded by superb scenery. Travel from Pant near Merthyr Tydfil along the beautiful Taf Fechan Reservoir to Torpantau.

For over 100 years this railway has connected Fairbourne with the sea at Barmouth Ferry. Experience the beauty of the Mawddach Estuary on this miniature (12.25-inch gauge) coastal railway. Ride all day with a Day Rover ticket.

From the new £1.25 million two-platform layout at Harbour Station, Porthmadog, travel to Tan-y-Bwlch Station. Then onwards to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Connect with the Welsh Highland Railway for 40 unbroken miles of adventure.

Situated in the heart of Snowdonia, the heritage steam locomotives take you on a five-mile return journey alongside Llyn Padarn lake, in the heart of Snowdonia. All tickets are for return travel.

Snowdon Mountain Railway has been welcoming visitors to Llanberis to experience the awe-inspiring journey by rack railway to the summit of Snowdon since 1896.

The world's first preserved steam railway. Steam through the charming Fathew valley in Snowdonia National Park. The journey covers more than seven miles of spectacular scenery within sight of one of Britain’s highest mountains, Cadair Idris.

Travel on the Vale of Rheidol Railway and explore the stunning Rheidol Valley. Opened in 1902, the railway has been delighting passengers young and old for over a century. The train climbs 700ft (200m) in the 11.75 miles from Aberystwyth to Devil's Bridge.

Starting from beneath the castle walls in historic Caernarfon, the railway climbs to the foot of Snowdon before dropping again to sea level at the harbour in Porthmadog. Connecting with Ffestiniog Railway, experience 40 unbroken miles of adventure.

The Welsh Highland Heritage Railway offers you three experiences for the price of one: a train ride, a miniature railway and an interactive museum, with tickets valid all day. Journey from Porthmadog to Pen y Mount.

Linking the market town of Welshpool to the rural community of Llanfair Caereinion, this narrow gauge steam railway has tight curves and steep gradients. A 16-mile return journey through the beautiful Mid-Wales countryside.

Take a gentle trip down the beautiful Dulas Valley on this family-friendly steam railway. Journey on a completely new train with modern recreations of the original Corris Victorian carriages and a Corris steam locomotive.

For the Gold Card and the Discount Card and any other matters please contact:

The Company Secretary Great Little Trains of Wales C/O Joanna Quinney, 7 Hill St, Menai Bridge, Anglesey LL59 5AG

Company address: Great Little Trains of Wales, Wharf Station Tywyn, Gwynedd LL36 9EY

For additional information on individual railways please go to the ‘railways’ page.

Latest News & Events

What’s going on, wales golden photo competition 2024.

Wales on Rails competition for Community Rail Week 2024 #WalesOnRails or #CledrauCymru, 20 May to 30 June 2024 walesgoldenphoto2024 Image Steve Towns @sjtown .

Ynys y Pandy Cwmystradllyn

Ffestiniog Bygones Weekend

06/10/23 to 08/10/2023, visit the Bygones Weekend at Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, a festival of vintage trains and stock. With a full and interesting timetable including passenger, gravity, slate and freight trains.

G Old Card Train images

#23offGOLDCARDfor23days2023 23/03 to to 23/04/23

Offer closed 23/04/2023. Each Gold Card costs £175, now discounted to £152 (23 March 2023 to 23 April 2023). Every card is valid for 12 months from the date your first journey.

IMG 7120

St Dwynwen’s Day to St Valentine’s Day, 2 for 1 DISCOUNT CARD offer

Offer closed 23/02/2023. Celebrate Love in Wales with our 2 for 1 Discount Card offer #Love2for1. Pay for 1 Discount Card, £20, and you will be posted 2 cards, 25 January to 22 February 2023.

Finalists Go North Wales Tourism Awards

Finalist Go North Wales Award

Our sister project, Wales on Rails , is a finalist in the Go North Wales, for a Go Responsible and Sustainable Green Award. The Talyllyn Railway and The Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways are also finalists.

Go North Wales finalists-winners

GLTW DG382449

We Won a Community Rail Award

Full steam ahead for our partnership project ‘Wales on Rails’, supported by Transport for Wales and the Community Rail Partnerships in Wales and the borders. We WON a tourism and leisure award.

Shortlisted social media graphic PNG

Wales on Rails Shortlisted for Award

Wales on Rails at the Community Rail Awards 2022. Wales on Rails is a sustainable pan-Wales tourism project, led by Great Little Trains of Wales. https://walesonrails.co.uk/

Gwili Steam Railway

Attraction information, get in touch, found a problem with this page report it here.

  • Accessibility Facilities
  • Cater For Groups
  • Children Welcome
  • Pets Accepted

Like what you see?

Take a look around, about gwili steam railway.

51.8913, -4.300761

Related stories, visit our unesco world heritage sites in wales.

Find out how to make the most of your visit to each of the four UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Wales.

  • UNESCO Heritage
  • Amazing places

Instagram-friendly Welsh landmarks

Take a look at these ten must-see Instagrammable coastal landmarks for you and your camera.

  • Countryside

Is Wales the castle capital of Europe?

With over 400 castles, wherever you go on holiday in Wales, you won't be too far from one to visit.

  • Historic buildings

A Royal Mint experience

Discover the history of coins and how they are made at the Royal Mint Experience in Llantrisant.

Before you start...

This site uses animations - they can be turned off.

Terms and Conditions

By using this site, you confirm you agree to our Terms and Conditions . 

We'd Like to Hear From You

By  answering a few questions , we'll give you the chance to win £500. By doing so you will also help us improve this website and help with your holiday planning and travel needs.

Good for you. Good for us. Teamwork!

The epic four-day steam train journey you can take in the heart of Wales

It's the perfect adventure for your next long weekend

  • 04:00, 14 APR 2024

A view from Talyllyn Railway

Want the best food, film, music, arts and culture news sent straight to your inbox?

We have more newsletters

The modern world might seek ever-faster and ever-sleeker rail transport, but there is something undeniably magical about an historic steam train, chugging and puffing rhythmically as it meanders through the countryside. Wales is home to some of the most renowned heritage railways in the world, offering passengers breath-taking views of the country's lush valleys, shimmering lakes, majestic peaks, and dramatic coasts.

Of all the vintage railways, the narrow gauge and miniature varieties are perhaps the most charming. There is a four-day trip you can take in the heart of the country, jumping aboard some of Wales' little trains.

Visit Mid Wales , run by tourism organisation MWT Cymru , has drawn up the itinerary for the tour through rural areas and along the coastline. You'll travel 170 miles on the Cambrian Main Line and Cambrian Coast Line, and your journey on these mainline routes will be interspersed with 30 miles of trips on six narrow gauge railways: Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, Rheidol Railway, Corris Railway, Talyllyn Railway, Fairbourne Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway.

READ MORE: The epic nine-day hike through a part of Wales that 'most walkers haven't caught on to'

READ MORE: The 'ancient capital of Wales' that has the UK's best restaurant on its doorstep

For pit-stops along the way, you can stay in and explore the quaint market town of Machynlleth and pretty seaside resorts of Aberystwyth , Barmouth, Porthmadog. Whether you're a railway enthusiast, or just fancy something different from mainline services, it's an epic adventure that's great for your next long weekend.

Day 1: Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway

On the first day, you'll begin in Shrewsbury station in the West Midlands, taking a short trip on the Cambrian Line to Welshpool station. At the Powys town, you'll embark on your first little train of the journey: the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway.

A steam train will take you on a 16-mile trip, from Welshpool to Llanfair Caereinion and back. The railway was built in 1903 to link farming communities with Welshpool. It was closed in 1956 but was revived by rail enthusiasts in the 1960s.

A visiting Austrian engine on the tracks of Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway

Today steam trains from all around the world chug along the line. Many of the carriages have open balconies that you can stand on, so you can get a great view of the nature and wildlife along the journey.

The route takes you over a viaduct and climbs the steep Golfa Bank and there's an opportunity to spot deer, pheasants, and wild flowers in the Powis Castle Estate. You can break up the journey with a bite to eat in the tearoom at the station in Llanfair Caereinion. When you're back in Welshpool, you'll hop on the Cambrian Line again for the next leg of the journey to Aberystwyth.

Day 2: Rheidol Railway and Corris Railway

Staying overnight in Aberystwyth, this seaside town is where you'll jump aboard your second historic stream train - the Vale of Rheidol Railway, which has been operating for more than 120 years. This is another rural journey, taking sharp curves and steep gradients for just over 11 miles between Aberystwyth and the tiny village of Devil's Bridge.

The train traverses a changing terrain - from ancient woodland to craggy mountains - and you might spot birds of prey such as red kites and buzzards curving in the sky. You'll also be able to hear the powerful locomotive working hard to climb an elevation of 700ft.

A view from Rheidol Railway

After one hour, you'll reach Devil's Bridge, a community nestled on the western slopes of the Pumlumon massif, the highest point of the Cambrian Mountains. Here you can check out the three arch bridges that give the area its name, the famous 300ft Mynach Falls, Jacob's Ladder and Devil's Punchbowl.

Once you've had your fill of exploring and head back to Aberystwyth, you'll take the Cambrian Line again to head to Machynlleth. From here you'll hop on your third old-fashioned train on the Corris Railway. Its terminus is located five miles north of Machynlleth and you can get there by bus.

The line opened in the 1850s as tramway for horse-drawn carts to carry slate from the quarries of Corris Uchaf and Aberllefenni to the banks of the River Dyfi from where it was shipped. In 1878, locomotive operation started, with three steam locomotives and ten passenger carriages introduced.

Today you can take a gentle 50-minute trip - which starts and ends at Corris Station - through the verdant Dulas Valley, where you'll spot sheep grazing and possibly buzzards swooping overhead. The journey has a break at Maespoeth where you can check out the workshops at the railway's headquarters. At Corris there is the railway's free museum, where you can see the original wagons for carrying slate.

After a busy day on steam trains, you'll had back to Machynlleth where you'll spend the night.

A map of the Cambrian Main Line and Cambrian Coast Line

Day 3: Talyllyn Railway and Fairbourne Railway

On the third day, you'll head to Machynlleth Station where you'll jump back on the mainline once again - this time the Cambrian Coast Line, which heads north all the way to Pwllheli. As its name suggests, you'll see gorgeous seascapes on this mainline - so beautiful that trip was included in a list by the Guardian rounding up "the world's 10 epic train journeys" .

Soon you'll reach the coastal town of Tywyn - on the edge of Snowdonia National Park, where you'll hop off the mainline to take a trip on the Talyllyn Railway, whose own terminus is just 300 yards walk from Tywyn's main station.

This award-winning historic railway is the first one to be preserved in the world in 1951 and dates back to 1865. The historic journey itself lasts two and a half hours and crosses just over seven miles from Tywyn to Abergynolwyn (where you'll have a 30-minute break for refreshments) and Nant Gwernol, before heading back to Tywyn.

You'll pass through ancient woodlands and meadows and from the stream train's covered and open carriages, you'll be able to marvel at Cadair Idris - one of Wales' highest peaks - in the distance. You might spot the likes of peregrine falcons, barn owls and cormorants along the way.

When you arrive back at the terminus, you can learn more about the history of narrow gauge railways at a museum, before you had back to the National Rail station and hop aboard the Cambrian Coast Line until you reach the seaside village of Fairbourne.

The view of Barmouth behind Fairbourne railway caf

Here you'll find your penultimate heritage railway - the miniature Fairbourne Railway. It started life as a horse-drawn construction tramroad, before being converted into 15-inch gauge in 1916. It was then rebuilt as its present 12.25 inch gauge in 1986. You'll take its two-mile trip - which has been going for more than 100 years - from the village to the mouth of the Mawddach Estuary, where you can hop on a ferry to make a short trip Barmouth. Or you can head back to Fairboune's station and hope back on the Cambrian Coast Line, taking it over the iconic- 900-yard wodden Barmouth Bridge to Barmouth.

Day 4: Ffestiniog Railway

After a good night's sleep in Barmouth, you'll hop on the Cambrian Coast Line and travel up to the coastal town of Porthmadog. Here is where you'll journey on the last - but certainly not least - vintage railway of your adventure: the Ffestiniog Railway in the heart of Snowdonia National Park. Holding the title of the oldest narrow gauge railway in the world, it is arguably of the most impressive of the bunch.

The Ffestiniog Railway

It was created in 1832 to carry slate from the small mining town of Blaenau Ffestiniog to the coast for shipping. You can make the same 13½-mile journey today from the harbour in Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog, which has been dubbed 'the capital city of slate' and 'the town that roofed the world'. It's also one of the six key areas of the Slate Landscape of Northwest Wales which has been declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The train climbs 700 ft from sea level up into Snowdonia's heights. The three-hour round-trip - which includes a layover at Blaenau Ffestiniog - will take horseshoe bends (even a complete spiral) and cling to the mountainside or even tunnel through it, according to the railway's website . All the while you'll be treated to views of pastures, forests, lakes and waterfalls.

You can see the full details of the tour and plan your trip using Visit Mid Wales' itinerary planner.

  • Traffic and Travel
  • Most Recent

steam train trips south wales

The Steam Trains of Wales

steam train trips south wales

  • 5 x Steam Railway Return Journeys
  • Entry/Admission - Merthyr Tydfil
  • Entry/Admission - Llanuwchllyn
  • Entry/Admission - Porthmadog
  • Entry/Admission - Llanberis
  • Entry/Admission - Vale Of Rheidol
  • Meals and drinks not mentioned in itinerary
  • Personal expenses
  • Brecon Beacons, Brecon LD3 8NL, UK This is not a guided tour - the first accommodation is in Brecon Beacons.
  • Cardiff, UK
  • Not wheelchair accessible
  • Pushchair accessible
  • Service animals allowed
  • Near public transportation
  • Infants must sit on laps
  • Confirmation will be received at time of booking
  • Most travellers can participate
  • This experience requires good weather. If it’s cancelled due to poor weather, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund
  • This tour/activity will have a maximum of 10 travellers
  • All sales are final and incur 100% cancellation penalties.

steam train trips south wales

  • clairesV9935YJ 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Zipedidoodah Visited zip world for belated birthday zip line treat with my daughter. Staff were all fantastic, and even the misty didn’t spoil an amazing day. After trial zip, the main attraction was exhilarating. Definitely recommend if you’re in the area. Read more Written 21 February 2024
  • D773SEdeboraht 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Memorable stay in a proper seaside hotel. Spent New Year’s Eve at the Marine.Lovely Family run proper seaside hotel. Warm friendly atmosphere. Immaculately clean everywhere. Lovely room with great sea views. The food is fantastic so much choice ideal for families. Really enjoyed the breakfast good choice tasty cooked breakfast. The staff were all helpful and friendly,really efficient at serving and cleaning up . It was lovely to meet two older ladies who would have spent Christmas on their own but had booked in and had been enjoying the week at the hotel they had a fabulous time and couldn’t praise the owners who made them so welcome. Had a really fun New Year’s with great food fantastic entertainment the singer was amazing and lovely venue. Read more Written 17 January 2024
  • nicolagT846FL 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Staff and safety amazing Wow wow wow. Staff were amazing. Super friendly and helpful as well as supportive to those that are nervous. Safety is taken so seriously and everything is checked and double checked. Toilets were lovely and clean and speed of service was good. Cafe area good, but a limited selection. Great experience. Read more Written 28 October 2023
  • 10gillp 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Disappointing visit bedroom extremely small -should only be single. ripped curtains. Dusty between twin beds. Bathroom extractor fan broken. Shower trap loose and dangerous. Breakfast was cold. Not value for money. Would not stay here again Read more Written 16 September 2023
  • Joulesg9 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Velocity 2 - Wow Absolutely amazing - was a bit nervous due to high winds and rain but the staff are lovely and our you at ease and everything is double checked so you feel very safe Was a fantastic ride down with my adult children - a fabulous 60th birthday present . Highly recommended Read more Written 20 August 2023
  • Brycey113 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great day out Great day out! Husband and 6 year old went on bounce below. They both came out soaked in sweat they had so much fun! Make sure you have long sleeves and long trousers on and be prepared to get wet and dirty. We also took advantage of the second adventure for 20% off and did the big red zip line! Read more Written 5 August 2023
  • Jet10585965715 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Best experience ever Absolutely amazing, thrilling and fast-paced experience. Going at 100mph is something you should definitely try on the worlds fastest zip line and longest in Europe. Read more Written 25 July 2023
  • S5798BEamyj 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Caverns Experience I went with my partner for my 25th Birthday and had a blast! During the training I was a little nervous once I'd climed the ladder and gotten to the top and the lady that was helping is was so lovely and shouted words of encouragement and got me just to sit in the harness and lift my legs to zip across the first high wire, I then loved the following ones, the zip wires were so fun, it's just the right amount of activities as well, your not bored and wanting it to end or feeling like it was over to quickly, it rairly bottlenecked either so you werent waiting around for ages, I would genuinely recommend this to anyone! Read more Written 3 July 2023
  • thejimmyb 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles FANTASTIC FANTASTIC - all I can really say loved it - excellent thank you - was worried before and glad afterwards Read more Written 22 June 2023
  • BandTB 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing! Amazing experience! The truck ride up to the start was unnecessarily uncomfortable but other than that, thumbs up all round! Read more Written 11 June 2023
  • TouringChrisC 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Fun day Very fast and fun. The activity was well organised and the facilities are good. I would recommend it but have to say the seated version in South Wales gives you more chance to look around at the scenery. Read more Written 1 June 2023
  • Leanne_d-81 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Fun Did the titan 2 and bounce below at zip world. The weather was lovely and the zip wire was amazing fun. Our guides Joe and Chris were knowledgeable and always ready with a joke. There are 2 zip wires on titan and are so much fun although you have to walk up a steep hill between the zip wires. We did bounce below after which was amazing and although the temp underground was chilly you get very hot very quick. Definitely would recommend fun for all the family. Read more Written 24 May 2023
  • TAandTA 0 contributions 3.0 of 5 bubbles Lost video footage We visited Zipworld in May as a birthday present for my husband. A 7 hour round trip and over £200 for the tickets we chose to pay for the video package as a memory of the day. We have now been told (after several calls to zipworld) that the video footage has been lost which my husband is gutted about. No offer of a chance to come back and re-do the experience so very disappointed. Read more Written 17 May 2023
  • BooBus62 0 contributions 5.0 of 5 bubbles Great, Fun experience We did Velocity in March - My Dad, myself and My husband. We all had an absolutely amazing day. Plenty car parking, very dog friendly and loads of viewing point for my mum to watch us, there was even a TV screen showing us at the top waiting to go on the Zipline. Everyone we met was friendly with one member of staff really standing out (signed our wrist band DC) he took the time to really go over everything with us to make sure we knew what to expect as my Dad as Parkinson's disease. It really put my mind at rest (My Dad wasn't bothered! He was just so excited to tick it off his bucket list!) 2 hours sounds like a long time but actually the 2 hours "flew" by :) It is a day we will never forget Read more Written 13 April 2023
  • WaffyP1980 0 contributions 4.0 of 5 bubbles Amazing experience My 10 year old daughter and I had a great time doing Velocity 2. Venue itself is spot in, easy to find, plenty of car parking, great facilities and helpful staff. The zip line experience itself is a lot of fun. There were quite a lot of nerves beforehand, but staff were great in making you feel safe. Once you're released, it's a real rush and you're left feeling exhilarated and proud you did it. At £18, getting a video for a child is a great idea so you can enjoy their reaction afterwards. Lot's of fun. Read more Written 7 April 2023

More to explore in Cardiff

steam train trips south wales

The Steam Trains of Wales provided by Visit Wales with Cambria Tours

Celtic Tours Wales logo

Heritage steam railways

All aboard for hours of fun aboard the numerous narrow gauge heritage steam railways all over wales for you to enjoy..

The coming of the railways changed Wales and the UK forever.  We became the first industrialised nation in the world.  Today most of our industrial built or narrow gauge railways in Wales are only for tourism and your enjoyment, but they travel through some of the most stunning scenery to be found in Wales, so what a combination.

Starting our journey in North East Wales we have the Llangollen Steam Heritage Railway a 30 minute journey alongside the river Dee, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.

Ffestiniog Railway

Heading further west we have 2 combined railways – the Welsh Highland Railway and the Ffestiniog Railway.  The Welsh Highland is a 2 hour journey through Snowdonia National Park and the Ffestiniog is 1 hr 20 mins from the port town of Porthmadog into another part of Snowdonia.  This was the first railway built in Wales back in the 1830s.

If you prefer to take the train to the top of a mountain rather than a 7 hour walk, the Snowdon Mountain Railway is world famous and will get you to the top in only 1 hour. When you do reach the top, there’s a café with snacks and drinks plus restrooms all to protect you from the elements or you can venture the 75 additional steps to reach the very top of Mount Snowdon (note there can be long queues during the summer months).

Snowdon Mountain Railway

Finally in mid Wales we have the Vale of Rheidol Railway which journeys just under 12 miles from the coast at Aberystwyth to the rather enigmatically named Devil’s Bridge.

About my Wales tours

All tours are bespoke and private so just for you or your group and operate year round, subject to weather conditions and minimum numbers.

Please contact me on  [email protected]  or call Carole on  07582 093582   to discuss your needs.

Terms & Conditions, cancellation fees and payment options are available on request.

Please contact me on  [email protected]  or call Carole on  07582 093582  to discuss your needs.

A sheepdog with sheep

All things wool

Worth more than gold

steam train trips south wales

Masterpieces both medieval and modern

steam train trips south wales

City of Chester

Take a “Rome” around 2,000 years

A cruise ship at Holyhead

Cruise ship tours

Private and exclusive just for you

Anglesey sea salt

Food and drink

Feast for the taste buds

Laburnum arch at Bodnant Garden

Blooming marvellous

Llangollen steam railway

A journey back in time

Street signs in Tenby, Wales

Mix and Match

steam train trips south wales

Hand-built with devotion

steam train trips south wales

Industrial Wales

Turning minerals to riches

Brynkinalt hall

Stately homes

How the other half lived

Privacy Overview

  • Transport and travel
  • Experiences

© Hawlfraint y Goron / Crown Copyright

Welsh Highland and Ffestiniog Railway, Porthmadog

Rail journeys in Wales - steam trains and mainline train services

Information on how your clients can discover Wales by train including scenic steam trains and mainline rail services.  Lots of our steam trains are part of Great Little Trains of Wales and many offer private charter and driver experiences.  

There are lots of small steam railways in Wales. It’s a great way to see our country – relax and enjoy the scenery. Several offer an insight into the industries that built them and provide a great snapshot of Wales long ago. Twelve narrow gauge steam railways are part of the  Great Little Trains of Wales . They offer a discount card entitling individuals 20 per cent off one adult full round trip fare on participating railways. Cardholders can also take advantage of discounts with selected accommodation providers close to the railways. Please note that this discount is for individuals and not groups.  There are also offers for groups and group organisers. The International Gold Card is designed for groups from other countries which must be applied for.   All have an events programme, some offer driver experiences and private charters. Please check their websites for details.  

Bala Lake Railway

The nine mile (14.4 km) return journey on the Bala Lake Railway  takes around one hour and runs alongside Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid) through Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park). Opened as a narrow gauge railway in 1972, it is one of the youngest of the narrow gauge railways, although the steam locomotives normally used are over 100 years old. The railways base is just off the A494 in the village of Llanuwchllyn, where there is adequate car parking, and a café and gift shop. From Llanuwchllyn the line descends to almost lake level and is never far from the lakeside. There are many short walks along the foreshore providing stunning views over and along the lake. The Bala terminus is a short walk into the town for the shops and cafes. Driver experience packages are available and group rates for parties 10+. Limited coach parking is available. 

Brecon Mountain Railway

The return journey on the Brecon Mountain Railway  takes just over an hour in all-weather observation coaches behind a vintage steam locomotive. It runs through beautiful scenery into the Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park along the full length of the Taf Fechan Reservoir to Dol-y-Gaer. At Pontsticill you can alight from the train and visit the café , with views across the water to the peaks of Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) , and go for a ramble alongside the reservoir. There is a play area for children. At Pant station the railway also has a workshop where old steam locomotives are repaired – with a new footpath to a picnic site which has a panoramic view of the valley. There is also a licenced tea room and souvenir shop. Reduced rates are available for groups 20+. There is room for up to four wheelchairs per train – advanced booking required.

Brecon Mountain Railway, Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) National Park

Corris Railway

Corris Railway is situated between Dolgellau and Machynlleth and travels down the Dulas Valley. The journey takes approximately 50mins and all journeys must start and end at Corris Station. There is a shop and free museum to explore. Experience days are available when normal services are not operating. Projects are underway to extend the line towards Tan y Coed Forest amenity site, redevelop Corris station and build a second steam locomotive. 

© Corris Railway Society

Fairbourne Steam Railway

The railway line for Fairbourne Steam Railway was rebuilt in 1984 having carried passengers for most of the 20th century from Fairbourne village to the Mawddach Estuary. It connects with the Barmouth ferry which takes guests over the estuary to Penrhyn Point. The return journey takes 60mins.  Reduced rates are available for groups 12+. A wheelchair carriage is available on request. A cafe is available.

Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway

The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway   was established by an Act of Parliament way back in 1832. It is truly a 'Great Little Railway' and is the oldest independent railway company in the World today. It takes you on a 13½ mile (21.7 km) journey from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog, the slate-quarrying town and home to  Zip World Llechwedd .  Tan-y-Bwlch Station, half way along the line, is situated just off the main valley in the Merionydd Oakwoods with many nature trails starting at the station.   The Welsh Highland Railway is North Wales' newest and the UK's longest heritage railway and is now open throughout from Caernarfon to the Ffestiniog Railway's Harbour Station in Porthmadog. The two lines (Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway) offer visitors a journey across Eryri (Snowdonia) more than 40 miles (64 km) in length. Waunfawr station, approximately halfway along the line, has a friendly pub and campsite beside it and there is a craft village a few minutes walk away.

Discounted rates are offered for parties 20+ (10+ if disabled). Carriages on some trains have extra wide doors for standard width wheelchairs. Porthmadog, Blaenau Ffestiniog, Caernarfon and Rhyd Ddu Stations have ramped access routes and specially adapted toilet facilities. Refreshments are available at Spooner's Cafe and CAMRA award winning bar at Harbour Station, Porthmadog and at Tan y Bwlch station cafe, also licenced for civil services. Large groups may be able to charter a train - booking well in advance is essential.

Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways

Llanberis Lake Railway

The 5 mile (8 km) return journey on the Llanberis Lake Railway takes up to one hour starting at Gilfach Ddu. It passes the 13th century Dolbadarn Castle, birthplace of the Welsh Prince Llywelyn the Great, and across Afon y Bala, possibly Britain's shortest river, before entering Padarn Country Park and joining the original slate railway route alongside lake Padarn, the largest of the two lakes in Llanberis. The train continues to Gilfach Ddu, originally where slate was transhipped from the quarry system to the slate railway.    The  National S late Museum   is located next to Gilfach Ddu Station. It is one of the National Museums of Wales and is free admission. The story of slate and the men who worked it comes to life through displays and demonstrations. A discount is available for groups of 20+. There is a shop and café at Gilfach Ddu station.

Snowdon Mountain Railway

Since 1896 visitors from around the world have travelled on  Snowdon Mountain Railway . The journey begins at Llanberis station and travels to the summit of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon), which at 1,085 metres (3,560 ft) is the highest mountain in England and Wales. The journey takes two and a half hours which includes a 30 minute stop at the peak. Visitors can opt to walk up or down and purchase a single ticket. This unique railway is one of the most popular visitor attractions in North Wales. 

Hybrid diesel locomotives have joined the fleet which will run alongside the traditional diesel and steam trains to reduce the carbon footprint. They are driven by free electric motors powered by a traction battery and diesel generator.   Hafod Eryri (Snowdon Summit Visitor Centre) , has been sympathetically designed to complement the landscape and features spectacular panoramic windows giving travellers to unimpaired views across the mighty Eryri (Snowdonia) range and the Irish Sea.    Weather conditions on Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon)  are very unpredictable and can change quickly. If weather conditions become severe and trains cannot proceed to the summit, they will terminate at Clogwyn Station (three quarter distance to the summit) or Rocky Valley (five eighths to the summit). A reduced fare is offered for such journeys. Coaches can drop off just 30 metres from the ticket office and there is coach parking in Llanberis. Groups have a free visit to the film theatre for a 13min presentation explaining the history of the railway. Group discounts are offered .

Refreshments are available at the Station Buffet, the Platform Grill and Hafod Eryri. A range of quality gifts can be purchased from the Copa Siop. The railway is accessible to wheelchair users with assistance. Advance notification is essential.

The views from Clogwyn Station 😍 We’ll be open again from the 23rd of March. Book in advance at www.snowdonrailway.co.uk Posted by Snowdon Mountain Railway / Rheilffordd yr Wyddfa on  Thursday, February 22, 2024

Talyllyn Railway

Award winning  Talyllyn Railway runs for 7 ¼ ​​​miles  (11.8 km) from Tywyn to Abergynolwyn and Nant Gwernol. The world's first preserved railway passes Dolgoch Falls and visitors can enjoy forest walks at Nant Gwernol. The Narrow Gauge Railway Museum at Tywyn Wharf terminus illustrates the development of narrow gauge railways over 200 years. Note that only Tywyn Wharf and Abergynolwyn stations have easy access for coaches. Full provision is made for disabled passengers. Reduced rates are available for groups 15+. Refreshments are offered at King’s Licensed Café & Bistro at Tywyn Wharf and Quarryman's Tea Room at Abergynolwyn. 'Steam and Cream' teas are a feature for parties of up to 30 with a typical Welsh cream tea. Drive a Steam Train experience, private charter trains and evening excursions combining catering services can all be booked.

Take a virtual ride on one of Talyllyn Railway's steam trains

Vale of Rheidol Railway

The  Vale of Rheidol Railway runs for 11 ¾  miles (19 km) from Aberystwyth to Devil's Bridge and journey time is approximately one hour in each direction. Trains normally wait for one hour at Devil’s Bridge but visitors can choose to return on a later train. The terminus is adjacent to the national network station at Aberystwyth, and passengers have spectacular views of the wooded Rheidol Valley. At  Devil's Bridge , there are walks to Mynach Falls, Devil's Punchbowl and Jacob's Ladder.

The original carriages used on the railway were not designed to carry wheelchairs and therefore access at present is only possible if wheelchair users can climb two steps from the platform into the carriage. The railway shop at Aberystwyth sell refreshments and The Two Hoots café  at Devil’s Bridge station offers a wider variety of snacks including freshly prepared sandwiches, jacket potatoes, cakes etc. 

Group rates 15+ are available and coach drivers have one free entry per party.

Vale of Rheidol Railway takes you on a nostalgic journey through some of Wales’ most spectacular scenery.

Welsh Highland Heritage Railway

The Welsh Highland Heritage Railway station is situated in Porthmadog, close to the mainline railway station. The journey takes around one hour including a stop at the sheds, where there are guided, hands-on tours. The trains are pulled by vintage steam locomotives, or by heritage diesel engines. It is possible to travel in the coach that used to carry bombs, or see where the Prime Minister sat when he visited the railway in 1892! At the end of the 1 mile (1.6 km) demonstration line at Pen-y-Mount Junction, you can watch the guard changing the points and signals so that the locomotive can run round, and enjoy the ambience of a typical 1920s-style WHR rural station. The Russell Tea Room offer refreshments including home-cooked meals. Special rates are offered for groups 12+ and wheelchair users travel free. There is a wheelchair accessible carriage on every train. Special arrangements can be made and they’ll even run a special train just for you. Full day and evening driver experiences are also available.

Welsh Highland Railway, Eryri (Snowdonia)

Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway

The 16 mile (25.7 km) return journey with Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway runs from the edge of the old market town of Welshpool and travels up the notoriously steep Golfa Bank, which makes a great echo of the locomotive’s engine. The track then runs out into the rolling scenery of the Banwy valley. All this is viewed from the unique open balcony coaches. The journey provides an opportunity to see deer, hawks and even otters. The train is hauled by one of the historic steam locomotives from around the world including the latest acquisition from Romania which arrived and began duties during 2007. At Llanfair Caereinion station, there is a shop and a tea room serving home made snacks.

Group rates for 10+ are available and special trains can be hired to suit your requirements. Driver experience courses are also offered.

Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway, Powys

Other Steam Railways

Gwili Railway A standard gauge steam railway which travels on an 8 mile (12.9 km) round trip of picturesque landscapes alongside the River Gwili. There is dedicated coach parking at Bronwydd Arms Station where groups can see a fully working signal box and visit the gift shop. Special rates are offered to coach parties with discounts for 10+ and the driver will receive a complimentary meal, drink and railway ticket.

Llangollen Railway A 10 mile (16 km) journey upstream on North Wales' only standard gauge heritage railway takes visitors from Llangollen town centre through the Dee Valley to Corwen town. Discounts are available for groups of 15+ with a further discount given if the party is larger than 35. Booking is essential and reserved seating will be given with the booking. On board catering can be offered to groups on request, or alternatively, at Llangollen station's tea room. Tour guides and coach drivers will receive free travel with all pre-booked visits. There are dedicated coach bays at Market Street car park.

Teifi Valley Railway A narrow gauge railway which offers a train ride in the countryside of West Wales, situated near Llandysul. Miniature railway, small museum and cafe available. 

Wales on Rails

Wales on Rails promotes sustainable tourism in Wales by encouraging the use of public transport, including use of the national rail network, bus services and heritage railways . The website includes a range of itineraries for up to seven days, and downloadable   route cards for t hemed attractions including adventure, food, heritage, gardens and outdoors.

Transport for Wales

Transport for Wales operate train services around Wales, including the scenic routes such as the Cambrian, Conwy Valley, North Wales Coast and the Heart of Wales line.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Transport for Wales (Rail) (@tfwrail)

From Rail to Trail - many stations are only a short walk from hundreds of paths including the Wales Coast Path, which runs along the entire Wales coastline. 

Take in the scenery of the Cambrian Coast  with a day pass which allows passengers to hop on and off from Pwllheli to Aberystwyth and Machynlleth.

Cambrian Line  takes you through 120 miles (193 km) of beauty which is natural and unspoilt. The main line stops at market and historical towns before reaching the coastal town of Aberystwyth. Alternatively, the main line merges with the coastal line which travels along the coast line of Gwynedd. Visitors travelling on this line can benefit from using the Window Seater app which is an audio guide for rail travel providing local stories about  history, geography, art and culture.

Conwy Valley Railway  travels from the North Wales coast to Eryri (Snowdonia) with breathtaking views of the Conwy and Lledr rivers.

The North Wales Coast line travels from Chester across the North Wales coast including the seaside towns and resorts - Rhyl, Prestatyn, Llandudno, Conwy, Bangor and stations across Anglesey to Holyhead. 

Heart of Wales Line  runs between Swansea and Shrewsbury through the dramatic landscape of Mid Wales

Traveline Cymru  has lots of useful information on planning your journey.  They provide simple timetable enquiries, a comprehensive journey planner and links to operators.

The  Explore Wales Pass  is valid for four days and gives unlimited access to Wales' rail and selected bus networks. Alternative tickets include the North and Mid Wales pass, the South Wales Pass and Rovers and Rangers tickets.

Cynghordy Viaduct, Llandovery on the Heart of Wales Line

Great Western Railway (GWR)

GWR  runs intercity train services along the South Wales mainline to Carmarthen, Swansea, Bridgend, Cardiff and Newport from London Paddington, Bristol and the rail network across southern England.

Your clients can enjoy GWR Pullman Dining on board whilst enjoying the views, where a modern twist on classic dishes brings something special to the table, prepared with care by their on-board chefs. 

Avanti West Coast

Avanti West Coast  run from Edinburgh, Glasgow, Birmingham, Manchester and Liverpool with connecting services to Holyhead.

They also run services from London Euston to Holyhead in North Wales stopping along the North Wales coast, Bangor and Holyhead.

Related stories

Explore south and mid wales on the cambrian way.

A five day sightseeing itinerary discovering the highlights of South and Mid Wales, along The Cambrian Way.

  • Historic sites

Regional introduction to North Wales for groups

Introducing North Wales including places to add to Travel Trade itineraries and programmes.

  • Underground

Tourist passes and discounts

Travel Trade friendly attraction, transport, accommodation and restaurant passes and discount cards.

  • National Parks

Travelling to and around Wales for the Travel Trade

Information for the Travel Trade regarding travelling to Wales by air, sea, rail and road and how to travel in Wales.

Before you start...

This site uses animations - these may cause issues for some people and can be turned off.

Terms and Conditions

By using this site, you confirm that you agree and accept our Terms and Conditions . 

Gwili Railway

  • Great For Families

Santa Special

Steam Train Rides, Carmarthen, Wales

Quick Details

  • User Ages: All Ages Welcome
  • Hour Glass Duration: 1.5 hours
  • Tag Availability: Saturdays and Sundays in December
  • Wheelchair Accessibility: Please contact us before booking
  • Globe Location: All dates depart our new station at Abergwili Junction (SA31 2DG).
  • Ticket Booking: Advanced booking is essential.
  • Paw Dogs: No dogs are allowed on this trip
  • Gift included for children 11 and under

Welcome aboard on a scenic steam train trip with Santa!

Santa is back on-board his favourite steam train, jolly and present-giving as ever! Join us in welcoming him back with a scenic steam train trip – headed for the fun of Christmas.

Join us and take a ride through the beautiful South Wales countryside on seats on-board 1950s carriages. Our steam train departs from and returns to new Abergwili Junction station (SA31 2DG) in Carmarthen.

The best part? All children aged 11 and under receive a present from Santa, and all groups meet this magical man for photographs and special memories!

Trains depart every Saturday and Sunday in December at times between 10:00 and 18:00. Selecting your preferred date when booking then shows specific times.

What to Expect in Open Seats/Exclusive Tables:

  • A warm welcome from our small, dedicated team at our vintage station – full of magic!
  • Steam train ride through beautiful South Wales countryside
  • Meeting Santa! and a present for children 11 and under (a lovely teddy bear)
  • A Christmas storybook with a traditional tale for each child.
  • Complimentary mince pie and sherry for all adults, and drink and snack for children.
  • An activity booklet to keep the kids entertained in quiet moments.

Why not come for a special, multi-coloured evening journey? Our bright illuminated trains with Santa on-board are an extra-special experience. All other elements remain the same. These depart on:

Sunday 3rd (17:00)

Sunday 10th (17:00)

Saturday 16th (16:00 and 18:00)

Sunday 17th (17:00)

Saturday 23rd (16:00 and 18:00)

What to Expect in Compartments – Now Fully Booked:

  • Meeting Santa! and a presents for children 11 and under (age and gender-specific)

Please arrive no less than 30 minutes before your booked departure time.

Related Train Rides

  • October Half-Term
  • User All Ages Welcome

Halloween Lights of the Valley Train

Take a steam train trip that will surely be a highlight of your October/November half term – complete with beautiful, dazzling lights.

  • Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays. Additional bank holidays & summer days.
  • Hour Glass 1.5 hours

Vintage Train Trip

We welcome you aboard our most popular steam train trip for a scenic, memorable ride! Journey through pretty fields, over sparkling rivers on this steam-powered locomotive trip. Ideal for families and heritage-lovers alike.

steam train trips south wales

Portmeirion, Snowdonia and Steam Train Tour

Quality custom designed tours, professionally trained tour guide, spacious executive touring vehicles, “enjoy touring without the crowds”.

steam train trips south wales

What's on the Touring Route

The welsh highland railway.

steam train trips south wales

Take a ride on one of the ‘Great Little Steam Trains of Wales’! The journey takes you along the most scenic sections of the track in Wales, past the foot of Mount Snowdon. Note: Train schedules don’t always operate every day, so we will work with you to help design the best possible options. There is an alternative track and line operating with the Ffestiniog Railway. *Train ticket Payable. Train tickets must be booked and reserved in advance.

Criccieth Castle

steam train trips south wales

Portmeirion

steam train trips south wales

There is an option to stop for lunch on site. Portmeirion offer a special arrangement with complimentary tickets to enter the village when you take a 2 course lunch at Castell Deudraeth (not including sandwiches or light bites). Lunch must be pre-booked and confirmed in advance. Entry can only be used after lunch has been taken. T&C’s apply.

steam train trips south wales

The most scenic road in Wales

steam train trips south wales

Mount Snowdon View

steam train trips south wales

Llanberis Mountain Pass

steam train trips south wales

Blade of the Giants

steam train trips south wales

The Secret View – Farewell View of Snowdonia

steam train trips south wales

Tour Enhancement

This tour can be custom designed to include the snowdon mountain railway.

steam train trips south wales

Customer Tour Testimonial

steam train trips south wales

Portmerion, Snowdonia and Steam Train Tour

steam train trips south wales

Interested in Booking this Tour?

steam train trips south wales

All our tours are custom designed and operate on a private basis.

With each private custom tour that we design, there is a number of factors that affect the overall tour price:

  • The dates that you choose
  • Your chosen location to start and end the tour
  • The number of passengers in your party
  • The tour duration that you choose

NOT FOUND WHAT YOU ARE LOOKING FOR?

It’s your very own private tour and we can custom design a tour itinerary to suit what you want to do and see.  Our flexibility in designing a tailor made tour means you have the flexibility to make changes to any of our tour examples.  So take something out or add something more appealing to your desires, or alternatively, add an element from another tour and combine it to create your perfect touring day.

All you have to do is ask and if it is possible, then it will be our pleasure to accommodate your wishes.

Professional, Reliable and Award Winning Tours

steam train trips south wales

  • Terms & Conditions of Booking
  • Website Conditions
  • Privacy Policy
  • Cookie Policy
  • Contact / Enquiry

steam train trips south wales

Checking out of our site already?

Did you know boutique tours of wales operates one of the very 'best rated' private tour experiences in britain.

steam train trips south wales

Don't let someone else beat you to our availability!

thumbnail_The Picnic Train Headboard logo-2.png

Steaming into the past!

toppng.com-ticket-icon-tickets-vector-icon-1501x1252.png

The Picnic Train

Come aboard the Picnic Train - a living museum on rails. This is travel as it used to be - a little slower and a lot more fun! The star attractions of any day out are our steam locomotives 5917 and R766 - rare survivors of the golden era of travel when steam ruled the rails.

Our dedicated and talented volunteers are from a wide range of backgrounds and come from far and wide with just one thing in mind - to provide you with a unique and enjoyable day out. 

Whether joining us in Sydney for our signature Kiama Picnic Train or from Maitland for a spirited run to Dungog, Gloucester or even further afield, you'll love soaking up the scenery from our 1930s carriages.

We look forward to welcoming you aboard.

WHATSON.jpg

Train Rides  

    what's on     .

ABOUT.jpg

Find out here

      about us     .

VOLUNTEER.jpg

    Get involved   

Gift certificates.

Gift Certificates for The Picnic Train are now available with a range of values from $25. All Gift certificates will be honoured for up to 3 years from the date of purchase.

Subscribe to get exclusive updates on when our new trips go on sale and when new products arrive in store!

Thanks for subscribing!

Mailing List

steam train trips south wales

Getting there is half the fun!

Brecon Mountain Railway

  • Most Popular

SANTA SPECIAL

BOOKINGS OPEN NOW! • GREAT FOR KIDS! • FESTIVE FUN FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

Quick Details

  • User Ages: All ages
  • Hour Glass Duration: 1.5 Hours

JOIN US FOR CHRISTMAS AT BRECON MOUNTAIN RAILWAY!

Come see Santa at our beautiful Heritage Railway! Travel by a Steam Train from Pant Station to Pontistcill to meet Santa in his Grotto where every Child* and Baby will receive a lovely present.

Mince Pie and Mulled Wine or soft drink for the Adults.

The Cafe will also be open.

More information

  • The return trip lasts approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes
  • At our main station in Pant you can visit our Tearooms for refreshments. The Gift shop is open for those last minute gifts and souvenirs.
  • You can also visit our Workshop where the Steam Locomotives and Carriages are repaired.
  • Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure time
  • Childs Main Gift is a Collectable Non-Toy
  • Babies under 2 do not get a seat

Note: Early Booking is Essential

We are dog friendly, however due to the busy trains we do not carry dogs on the Santa trains. Due to limited space, no prams or buggies can be taken onto the train but they can be left at the station at Pant Wheelchairs Welcome/Free Car Park

RELATED ACTIVITIES

  • Hour Glass 1.5 Hours
  • User All ages

RETURN JOURNEY

Travel from our Main Station at Pant to Torpantau Station in one of our all-weather Observation Carriages, behind a vintage Steam Locomotive.

  • Hour Glass 10 Minutes

PONTSTICILL TO PANT

Take a relaxing a one-way steam train ride from Pontsticill to Pant.

  • Hour Glass 15 Minutes

TORPANTAU TO PONTSTICILL

Enjoy a beautiful one-way steam train ride from Torpantau to Pontsticill

Awesome, you're subscribed!

Thanks for subscribing! Look out for your first newsletter in your inbox soon!

The best things in life are free.

Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when you’re feeling flush).

Déjà vu! We already have this email. Try another?

By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions.

  • Things to Do
  • Food & Drink
  • Arts & Culture
  • Coca-Cola Foodmarks
  • Los Angeles

Get us in your inbox

🙌 Awesome, you're subscribed!

Vale of Rheidol Railway’s Engine Shed

A brand-new steam train museum has opened in Wales

The Vale of Rheidol Railway in Aberystwyth just opened its newly converted 1938 engine shed up to the public

Annie McNamee

Are you a total trainspotter? Really into railways? Loopy for locomotives? Today is your lucky day. A brand-new steam train museum has chugged its way into Aberystwyth, officially opening a couple of weeks ago on May 3. 

The Vale of Rheidol Railway’s Engine Shed is 5000 square feet of pure steam train goodness. Fashioned out of a converted 1938 engine shed (yep, as the name suggests), the space is now home to multiple historic locomotive models, though there are also plans to use it for events and special occasions in the future. 

The Engine Shed is the latest endeavour from the Vale of Rheidol Railway, a steam-powered train line that dates back to 1902.  The museum space is free to enter when you buy a ticket to one of the steam-engine outings, which cost £35 per adult or £52.50 for a first class seat. Kids are only £5 each, and you can even bring your dogs. Truly all aboard. Here are a few pics of the Engine Shed. 

Vale of Rheidol Railway’s Engine Shed

If you’re not interested in trying out the whole shebang, you can get into the museum for only £5 per adult. For more information, including an itemised list of the exact makes, models, and countries of origin for all the trains on display, you can check out the Vale of Rheidol Railway’s website .

Enjoy yourselves, train enthusiasts! You’ve earned this.

Trains in the news

We at Time Out like to keep up to date on the latest in the world of UK railway news. For instance, did you see that Eurotunnel’s new travel system will soon mean no more queues ? Maybe you missed that the Tyne and Wear Metro is getting swanky new carriages , or that  the real-life Hogwarts Express has started running again ? We also keep up to date with  latest information about ongoing strikes with our national industrial action hub . 

Did you see that  the UK’s best independent bookshop is in a remote Welsh town ?

Plus:  This charming seaside town has been named the UK’s best holiday destination right now . 

Stay in the loop: sign up to our  free Time Out UK newsletter  for the latest UK news and the best stuff happening across the country.

  • Annie McNamee Contributor, Time Out London and UK

Share the story

An email you’ll actually love

Discover Time Out original video

  • Press office
  • Investor relations
  • Work for Time Out
  • Editorial guidelines
  • Privacy notice
  • Do not sell my information
  • Cookie policy
  • Accessibility statement
  • Terms of use
  • Modern slavery statement
  • Manage cookies
  • Advertising
  • Time Out Market

Time Out products

  • Time Out Worldwide

RailAdvent

News By Category

  • Infrastructure
  • Rolling Stock
  • Standard Gauge
  • Narrow Gauge
  • New Build Steam
  • Online Shop
  • Model Railways

Over 2,400 extra passengers each month at new station in Wales

Transport for wales celebrates success of new station at bow street..

Roger Smith avatar

In the three years since a new railway station was opened by Transport for Wales at Bow Street near Aberystwyth in West Wales, passenger numbers have increased by over 2,000 each month.

The station opened in 2021 following ten years of work and campaigning by local groups in Ceredigion .

Since then, the number of passengers using it has continued to grow , from 12,563 passenger journeys during 2021/22, and 23,156 in 2022/2023 with some of the increase partly because of the relaxation of Covid-19 restrictions.

In 2023/24, the number increased again to more than 29,000, equivalent to an average of more than 2,400 passenger journeys per month.

Transport for Wales Class 158 at Bow Street station

The latest figure shows that 34% of all journeys from the station were to Aberystwyth, followed by 13% to Shrewsbury, 8% to either Birmingham New Street or Birmingham International and 7% to London.

Customer facilities include a free 70-space car park covered by CCTV and provision for cycle parking, and a bus stop used by local buses and the T-2 bus from Aberystwyth to Bangor.

Active Travel connections were also completed in 2021/22. They have seen a considerable increase by pedestrians and cyclists, both within Bow Street and between Bow Street and the neighbouring community of Penrhyncoch via Aberystwyth University's Plas Gogerddan campus.

Bow Street

Soon after it opened, the station was shortlisted for an award in the Constructing Excellence in Wales awards

Customers have been really positive about it and certainly we seem to see a lot of people using it particularly to get into Aberystwyth where parking in the town can be limited. We were really proud that the first new station as Transport for Wales was here on the Cambrian line and it is great to see its ongoing success. David Crunkhorn, Transport for Wales Station Manager

Bow Street passenger information

Tirymynach ward councillor Paul Hinge was heavily involved in the campaign for the station, which eventually culminated in the Welsh Government commissioning a study into the reopening of the station and securing funding from the Department for Transport for its construction.

People are definitely using it more and more, not just from the village of Bow Street but from communities like Penrhyncoch, Talybont and beyond, he said. A big part of that is the free car park and many people will prefer to travel from here when heading to Birmingham or London because they know they can leave their car safely. For me, it was a real labour of love as my father-in-law worked on the railway for about 50 years and he asked me to push for this shortly before he died. Paul Hinge, Tirymynach ward councillor

You Might Also Like

Ten tonnes of uniform recycled by northern train operator, tram 16 to become innovation hub at dudley centre, assistance trial starts on london railway network, rail safe friendly signs up another partner to promote railway safety, northern offers £100k to social mobility groups, leave a reply cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed .

Latest News

Wickham Type 27 Mk III trolley arrives at the Keighley Bus Museum

Wickham Trolleys move to West Yorkshire

South East Asia Railways cover

Book Review: South East Asia Railways by Peter J. Green

Buzzing Roots

East Midlands Railway offers grants to community groups

koda Group - RegioJet

Škoda Group to deliver new electric trains to run in Czech Republic

Bentham station. // Credit: Gerald Townson

Passenger numbers continue to grow on important Lancashire-Yorkshire route

DB ESG at work. // Credit: DB ESG

Expansion of 3D printing for the UK rail industry

The new firefighting and rescue train from Stadler for ÖBB-Infrastruktur AG. // Credit: ÖBB/Stadler

New firefighting trains delivered to Austria

Stay connected.

Father's Day Cards

New Products

West Somerset Railway DVD

Popular This Week

LNER's Paul Simpson poses with flowers and a poppy wreath at York station.

Railway employee pays tribute to the fallen with flowers

Rail Minister, Huw Merriman on board the East Coast Digital Programme driver simulator

Teenage train drivers could reduce shortages

Azuma Launch // Credit: LNER

LNER Azuma trains clock up 58 million miles

Recent comments.

  • Chris dempsey on Southeastern opens new secure cycle hub at Kent railway station
  • Adrian on Investigation underway after locomotive derails at heritage railway
  • Andrew on Train operator’s Chief Medical Officer shares top tips for mental health awareness

steam train trips south wales

Sign in to your account

Email address

Remember Me

Coffee Shop Usy Teodora Glagoleva

steam train trips south wales

COFFEE SHOP USY TEODORA GLAGOLEVA, Elektrostal - Restaurant Reviews, Photos & Phone Number - Tripadvisor

IMAGES

  1. Brecon Mountain Railway

    steam train trips south wales

  2. Heart of Wales Steam Brecon Beacons 2024

    steam train trips south wales

  3. Steam Train Driving Experience South Wales

    steam train trips south wales

  4. Where you can spot this brilliant steam train coming to south Wales at

    steam train trips south wales

  5. Talyllyn Railway: Experience the nostalgia with this historic narrow

    steam train trips south wales

  6. The Steam Trains Of Wales: Triphobo

    steam train trips south wales

VIDEO

  1. Gwili Steam Railway-29/06/2023

  2. Frisco Steam Locomotive #1630 Pulling a Train at the Illinois Railway Museum

  3. Australian steam locomotives 3642 & 5910

  4. Australian steam locomotives 3237 & 3265

  5. 'Britannia Bark'

  6. Vintage Steam Train in Pickering

COMMENTS

  1. The Brecon Mountain Railway

    The line runs from Pant, 3 miles North of Merthyr Tydfil, to Torpantau following part of the route of the original Brecon & Merthyr Railway which closed in 1964. Travel from our Main Station at Pant in one of our all-weather Observation Carriages, behind a vintage Steam Locomotive. The journey takes you into the Brecon Beacons National Park ...

  2. Great Little Trains of Wales Limited, twelve scenic steam railways

    Connect with the Welsh Highland Railway for 40 unbroken miles of adventure. 5. LL55 4TY Llanberis Lake. Situated in the heart of Snowdonia, the heritage steam locomotives take you on a five-mile return journey alongside Llyn Padarn lake, in the heart of Snowdonia. All tickets are for return travel.

  3. The places in Wales where you can ride a steam train

    Talyllyn Railway. This is the world's first preserved steam railway and it starts from Tywyn on the Mid-Wales coast, halfway between Barmouth and Aberystwyth on the A493 road. Opened in 1865, the ...

  4. South Wales by Steam Rail Tour

    South Wales by Steam. Save . You are viewing the 2024 itinerary. Select your departure year. 2024 2025. 6 days From £579 £529 per person (95 reviews) ... Enjoy a nostalgic trip on the Gwili Steam Railway, a heritage line that winds through the idyllic landscapes of South Wales. St David's. Discover St David's, the smallest city in Britain ...

  5. Gwili Railway

    Vintage Train Trip. From £17. We welcome you aboard our most popular steam train trip for a scenic, memorable ride! Journey through pretty fields, over sparkling rivers on this steam-powered locomotive trip. Ideal for families and heritage-lovers alike. Book Now. Learn More. Wednesdays, Thursdays and Sundays.

  6. Narrow gauge and steam trains

    Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway, Mid Wales. Start in historic Welshpool and take in the Banwy Valley pulled by a vintage locomotive en route to the rural community of Llanfair Caereinion. Established in 1903 the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway is a 2 foot 6 inch narrow gauge steam railway. It was built as a Light Railway to avoid some ...

  7. Train Rides

    Journey through pretty fields, over sparkling rivers on this steam-powered locomotive trip. Ideal for families and heritage-lovers alike. Book Now. Learn More. From£27.50. Thursday at 13:00 and 15:15. 1.5 hours.

  8. Cream Tea & Steam

    Travel through the breathtaking, varied countryside surrounding our line on an eight mile round trip, complete with cream tea at your seat. Each Thursday at 1pm and 3:15pm our steam train leaves our new station at Abergwili Junction (SA31 2DG) where there is plenty of free parking on this extra-special trip. The experience takes approximately ...

  9. Gwili Steam Railway

    The Gwili Steam Railway operates a standard gauge preserved railway from Bronwydd (near Carmarthen) in south-west Wales along a short section of the former Carmarthen to Aberystwyth railway that closed for passenger traffic in 1965, the track being lifted in 1975. The Gwili Railway was formed in 1975 and, by 1978, had purchased and rescued ...

  10. The epic four-day steam train journey you can take in the heart of Wales

    A steam train will take you on a 16-mile trip, from Welshpool to Llanfair Caereinion and back. The railway was built in 1903 to link farming communities with Welshpool. It was closed in 1956 but ...

  11. 2024 The Steam Trains of Wales

    The Steam Trains of Wales. Steam trains and stunning views are a match made in heaven, and Wales offers both. Experience a unique and cultural aspect of Wales in this self-driven tour, taking in the breadth of the country, its three National Parks, diverse steam trains and hidden areas that only the locals usually get to enjoy!

  12. Heritage steam railways

    Please contact me on [email protected] or call Carole on 07582 093582 to discuss your needs. Terms & Conditions, cancellation fees and payment options are available on request. All aboard for a day out exploring Wales' heritage steam railways. There are plenty to choose from, in all parts of Wales - and I'll arrange everything for you.

  13. Steam train and mainline railway services

    The nine mile (14.4 km) return journey on the Bala Lake Railway takes around one hour and runs alongside Bala Lake (Llyn Tegid) through Eryri National Park (Snowdonia National Park). Opened as a narrow gauge railway in 1972, it is one of the youngest of the narrow gauge railways, although the steam locomotives normally used are over 100 years old.

  14. Santa Special

    Welcome aboard on a scenic steam train trip with Santa! Santa is back on-board his favourite steam train, jolly and present-giving as ever! Join us in welcoming him back with a scenic steam train trip - headed for the fun of Christmas. Join us and take a ride through the beautiful South Wales countryside on seats on-board 1950s carriages.

  15. Portmeirion, Snowdonia and Steam Train Tour

    Portmerion, Snowdonia and Steam Train Tour. This tour can be custom designed to fit a number of touring options. such as duration and pick up/drop off locations. This private tour can start from Beaumaris, Bangor, Betws-y-Coed, Caernarfon, Conwy, Holyhead, Llandudno, Ruthin, Llangollen and Wrexham areas.

  16. Home

    The Picnic Train. Come aboard the Picnic Train - a living museum on rails. This is travel as it used to be - a little slower and a lot more fun! The star attractions of any day out are our steam locomotives 5917 and R766 - rare survivors of the golden era of travel when steam ruled the rails.

  17. Santa Special

    Come see Santa at our beautiful Heritage Railway! Travel by a Steam Train from Pant Station to Pontistcill to meet Santa in his Grotto where every Child* and Baby will receive a lovely present. Mince Pie and Mulled Wine or soft drink for the Adults. The Cafe will also be open. More information. The return trip lasts approx. 1 hour and 30 minutes

  18. A brand-new steam train museum has opened in Wales

    A brand-new steam train museum has chugged its way into Aberystwyth, officially opening a couple of weeks ago on May 3. The Vale of Rheidol Railway's Engine Shed is 5000 square feet of pure ...

  19. Over 2,400 extra passengers each month at new station in Wales

    In the three years since a new railway station was opened by Transport for Wales at Bow Street near Aberystwyth in West Wales, passenger numbers have increased by over 2,000 each month.. The station opened in 2021 following ten years of work and campaigning by local groups in Ceredigion.. Since then, the number of passengers using it has continued to grow, from 12,563 passenger journeys during ...

  20. THE BEST Things to Do in Valuyevo

    Things to Do in Valuyevo, Russia: See Tripadvisor's 121 traveler reviews and photos of Valuyevo tourist attractions. Find what to do today, this weekend, or in March. We have reviews of the best places to see in Valuyevo. Visit top-rated & must-see attractions.

  21. Elektrostal

    Elektrostal is linked by Elektrichka suburban electric trains to Moscow's Kursky Rail Terminal with a travel time of 1 hour and 20 minutes. Long distance buses link Elektrostal to Noginsk, Moscow and other nearby towns. Local public transport includes buses. Sports

  22. RESTAURANT GLOBUS, Elektrostal

    Review. Share. 67 reviews. #2 of 28 Restaurants in Elektrostal $$ - $$$, European, Contemporary, Vegetarian Friendly. Fryazevskoye Hwy., 14, Elektrostal Russia. + Add phone number + Add website + Add hours Improve this listing. There aren't enough food, service, value or atmosphere ratings for Restaurant Globus yet.

  23. Coffee Shop Usy Teodora Glagoleva

    Coffee Shop Usy Teodora Glagoleva, Elektrostal: See 31 unbiased reviews of Coffee Shop Usy Teodora Glagoleva, rated 4.0 of 5 on Tripadvisor and ranked #8 of 30 restaurants in Elektrostal.