Mon. Nov 18th, 2024

10 reasons to visit the Rheidol Railway in the Cambrian Mountains

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.

To get a feel for the Vale of Rheidol Railway see: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IqecN43iAdo

For more information see: https://www.rheidolrailway.co.uk/

 

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By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.

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