The Ffestiniog Railway – Wales

The Ffestiniog Railway is a narrow-gauge heritage railway in Gwynedd, Wales. With comfortable carriages and historic steam engines, it offers travellers the chance to take a trip though the picturesque Snowdonia National Park on a 14-mile journey from the harbour in Porthmadog to the historic slate-quarrying town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. On the journey you’ll see stunning coastlines, spectacular rivers, ancient castes and wild rivers. The Ffestiniog Railway Company, which owns the railway, is the oldest surviving railway company in the world, and this is one of the best Welsh railway day trips. 

Prices from: £14.70
Departing from: Blaenau Ffestiniog
Journey length: 14 miles

The Ffestiniog Railway route

The journey climbs over 700 feet from sea level to the mountains, travelling from the harbour in Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog. The line is single track throughout with four intermediate passing places and the journey takes three hours to complete. The halfway point is Tan y Bwlch where you can get off to enjoy a bite to eat at the tearoom, take a woodland walk or visit the children’s play area. As well as comortbale seats and big picture windows, you will also find tea, coffee and light refreshments on board the train.

The Ffestiniog Railway trains

The railway uses a mixture of fully restored steam and diesel locomotives to haul the trains through Snowdonia National Park. Ranging in age from 1909 to 1985, these are some of the most powerful narrow-gauge locomotives in the world. 

Why we love it

This super popular railway (be sure to book ahead) offers travellers to the chance to see some the most spectacular scenery in Wales in a very flexible manner. Your return ticket is valid all day and you can ride on the train as many times as you like. We also love the updated Caernarfon Station. This new building provides visitors