Llangollen Railway – key information about the magical experience

Nothing matches the experience of jumping on board a steam-hauled train. While there are a few still around in the UK – operated with huge success as visitor attractions – few can be as striking or emotive as the Llangollen Heritage Railway. What better way could there be to see the finest countryside in this part of north-east Wales?

How to get to Llangollen Railway Station

The station sits on the north bank of the River Dee and can be reached from the A542. You cannot park at the station, although there are a few disabled bays available. Your best bet is to aim for an early arrival into the town and to find parking there. The town has four Pay and Display car parks that can be used.

You can catch a bus to the town but be careful to check times for the available services.

Where can you go when catching the steam train?

Railway enthusiasts rescued the line – once used for regular passengers and for goods – and turned it into what it is today. The line runs through the following stations:

• Llangollen (the easternmost point of the line)
• Berwyn
• Glyndyfrdwy
• Carrog
• Corwen (the westernmost point of the line)

The train journey stays very close to the River Dee throughout, offering the chance to marvel at some stunning Welsh scenery. Be sure to take your camera!

Which ticket is best?

There are three options for trying out the steam railway:

1. Buy a single ticket for a one-way journey (ideal if you’re travelling through the area and not intending to return to your starting point)
2. Buy a standard return that gives you a return trip to where you started from
3. Buy an All-Day Rover ticket that allows unlimited travel on the specified day

We think the best option is the Rover, as it only costs a couple of pounds more. This ticket leaves you free to disembark at any station to look around, before catching another train further up the line. It certainly gives you more freedom to explore.

Watch out for special events on the Llangollen railway

The railway lays on special events throughout the year. If you know you are going to be in Llangollen on a specific date, it’s worth checking to see if any events are available to book at that time. Examples of popular events include:

• Fish and chip specials
• A real ale train journey
• Murder on the Llangollen Express (a popular event with a nod to Agatha Christie!)
• Special events to celebrate Mother’s Day and Father’s Day
• The Halloween train (if you dare)

You can also arrange to eat while on board the train. Options include a tasty afternoon tea, a jam-packed picnic basket, or a buffet if you are with a party of 10 people or more.

See Llangollen and the surrounding countryside in style

The steam railway is the best way to take some superb photos and to make memories you’ll never forget.