FRIDAY 9 MAY 2025

FOR LOVERS OF STUNNING SCENERY, THE SINGLE TRACK RAILWAY THAT CLIMBS THROUGH THE MOUNTAINS OF MID-WALES, THEN HUGS THE CAMBRIAN COAST BY WAY
OF TYWYN, BARMOUTH, AND PORTHMADOG TO PWLLHELI IS HARD TO BEAT. 

These rail excursions offer a wide variety of joining points, whilst travelling in comfort on a through train to one of the most spectacular railway lines in Britain.

From Shrewsbury, the train will set-off for Mid-Wales, over easy ground and along the valley of the River Severn, which is close by through Welshpool to Newtown, soon after which we enter the valley of Afon Garno, followed almost to the summit and deep rock cutting at Talerdigg.

And downhill then to Machynlleth and to Dovey Junction, where we take the North side of the Dyfi Estuary, running on a seawall towards Aberdyfi, then turn north to Tywyn, onto the cliffs at Friog and down to cross the Morfa Mawddach estuary on the famous half mile viaduct to Barmouth/Abermaw.

On then past the great fortress at Harlech to Minffordd and across the Glaslyn Estuary, with views (weather permitting) to Snowdon/Y Wyddfa, before Porthmadog. A final run, much of it close to the shoreline, leads to Criccieth and beyond to the end of the line at Pwllheli.

WE OFFER THE FOLLOWING DESTINATIONS FOR YOU TO CHOOSE FROM:

Option A – BARMOUTH (1300/1745):

A compact resort and start of a circular trip, featuring a river ferry, a walk over the historic half mile Barmouth Bridge and the Fairbourne Railway.

 

Option B – PORTHMADOG (1400/1645):

A very pleasant port and town, with remarkable views. It is also home to several well known narrow gauge railways.

 

Option C – CRICCIETH (1420/1630):

New for 2025!
Criccieth is the gateway to the natural paradise of the Lyn Peninsula. Explore the ancient castle towering over the friendly seaside town, or stretch your legs around the Welsh coastline with sparkling views out to sea.

 

Option D – PWLLHELI (1435/1620):

Market town of the Llŷn Peninsula with an extensive marina and the journeys end of course!

 

ON BOARD FEATURES INCLUDE:
– Reserved seats aligned with the carriage windows
– A printed excursion and journey guide for everyone
– A travelling licensed buffet with refreshments, including alcoholic and soft drinks 
– The Premier Dining service includes The Great British Breakfast, Elevenses and four course evening dining
– Cheerful, friendly and helpful Pathfinder Stewards!

ESTIMATED TIMINGS

* Please Note: Premier Dining is not available from Shrewsbury.

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Table for Two seats are available at a supplement of £45 per person in First Class and Premier Dining.

Motive power is expected to be a West Coast Railways Class 47/57 locomotive to Shrewsbury and return. Followed by a West Coast Railways Class 37 and Network Rail class 97/3 thereafter.

Passengers will be able to enjoy the comfort of travelling in 1970’s BR MK2 carriages.

Photograph by Nick Skelton and Sean Vernell