The Vale of Rheidol Railway in Wales is the perfect way to see the stunning Cambrian Mountains countryside from a vantage point you can only get to by train.
You’ll travel through 12 miles of glorious Welsh scenery on one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the UK. And you’ll do it all from the comfort of your carriage travelling behind a vintage steam locomotive built in the 1920s.
As you travel from Aberystwyth on Cardigan Bay to Devil’s Bridge in the heart of the Cambrian Mountains you can chat with the railway’s knowledgeable loco crews, watch as red kites, once threatened with extinction, fly overhead, and soak up the views that can only be seen from the railway line. Listen to the sound of the engine chuffing its way along the tracks and the distinctive whistle as it nears crossings. This is a trip back in time and a chance to enjoy a piece of history.
Once you arrive at Devil’s Bridge, you can visit the famous waterfalls and learn more about the legend that led to its name, indulge yourself at the award-winning Sarah Bunton’s Chocolate Shop, soak up the atmosphere while enjoying a drink and tasty treat or a full meal at the Hafod Inn, take a walk between the railway’s restored stations on one of the many paths and trails, or for the truly adventurous, try your hand at driving one of the steam locomotives. And when you are ready, board your train for the return journey to seaside town of Aberystwyth.
Here are 10 reasons to visit the wonderful Vale of Rheidol Railway:
- You’ll see 12 miles of stunning Welsh scenery on one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the UK, taking your through the little-visited Cambrian Mountains – a hidden gem of Mid Wales.
- You’ll travel behind one of the Vale of Rheidol Railway’s lovingly restored vintage steam locomotives built in the 1920s
- You’ll be able to chat with the friendly and knowledgeable loco crews, guards and station staff and get a real insight into what it’s like to work on a steam railway.
- You’ll gasp as majestic red kites fly overhead. Once threatened with extinction, these birds of prey are often seen from the train – sometimes flying alongside at eye-level!
- It’s the perfect way to visit the famous Devil’s Bridge Waterfalls and discover the legend of Devil’s Bridge and women who tricked Lucifer himself (separate attraction, fee applies)
- Indulge yourself with a visit to the award-winning Sarah Bunton’s Chocolate Shop at Devil’s Bridge. Try the delicious handmade chocolates and treat yourself or a loved one to a gift from Wales.
- Enjoy the autumnal colours – one of the best seasons to ride the train as the trees change colour and the falling leaves open-up the views. Or if you prefer a winter trip, then you’ll see frost covered fields, and snow-capped mountains, and pale winter sunshine peaking through the branches lighting up the landscape below.
- Enjoy morning coffee, a light lunch, a glass of wine or a refreshing beer, an afternoon snack or a delicious dessert at the Hafod Hotel, just a short stroll across the bridge from the platform.
- Visit the Museum in the Engine Shed Display Building (at the station stop in Aberystwyth) and see, close-up, the Vale of Rheidol Railway’s extensive collection of historical narrow-gauge locomotives and rolling stock.
- Take a walk through the historic town of Aberystwyth, stroll on the beach, enjoy a meal or drinks on the seafront, ride the funicular to the top of Constitution Hill, and visit the Aberystwyth Museum in the centre of town.
The Vale of Rheidol Railway is a not-for-profit charity and every visit helps to keep the railway running for future generations to enjoy.
You can get a feel for the Vale of Rheidol Railway here.
More information is available here.