Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
4.5
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 5:00 PM
About
The Ffestiniog Railway takes you on a 13 1/2-mile journey from the harbour in Porthmadog to the slate-quarrying town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. We are recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records as the oldest railway company in the world, being founded in 1832. We still build steam locomotives and carriages in our own workshops and the world's oldest steam engine, Prince, is still in regular use today - more than 150 years after it was built. Our historic trains climb over 700 feet from sea level into the mountains through tranquil pastures and magnificent forests, past lakes and waterfalls, round horseshoe bends (even a complete spiral) clinging to the side of the mountain or tunnelling through it. The Welsh Highland is Snowdonia's newest railway. Trains start their spectacular 25 mile scenic journey from beneath the historic castle walls at Caernarfon. The trains - hauled by the world's most powerful narrow gauge steam locomotives - climb from sea level to over 650 feet on the foothills of Snowdon, before zig-zagging dramatically down the steep hillside to reach Beddgelert, nestling in the heart of the National Park, then through the magnificent Aberglaslyn Pass - voted the most beautiful spot in the UK by the National Trust - and on to Porthmadog.
Duration: 2-3 hours
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- 6amigos_11Cardiff, United Kingdom251 contributionsA must do tripThis is a must do of you are in the area. We opted for the Porthmadog to Blaine Ffestiniog route. Do some research on the history and it will add depth and context to engineering feat your will travel on. The views are spectacular and the trip takes about three hours with a 20min stop at the top. Not cheap but worth the investment. They have a free carpark 10min away and blue badge holders can book a space right outside.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 12 September 2023
- Tourist075092216041 contributionAmazing day out!An amazing experience on this day out with this historic railway company. As a disabled person, everyone one was so helpful in proving assistance when required. The scenery was spectacular . The railway staff very smart, friendly, informative, and efficient.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 16 September 2023
- Liz PWellingborough, United Kingdom6 contributionsbreathtaking !!!Wonderful trip from Porthmadog to Cearnarfon castle. The scenery is breathtaking.Our onboard staff were very helpful showing us what to look out for and kept us well hydrated with the drinks trolley on what was a very hot day. Would thoroughly recommend a trip with Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways but Please pre. book to avoid sad faces !!!!Visited September 2023Travelled with familyWritten 16 September 2023
- Ian MBackworth, United Kingdom451 contributionsFabulous tripsThe journeys are fabulous, the rolling stock and steam engines are immaculate. The staff are very friendly and helpful. There is some spectacular scenery on the WHR . A trolley service is available on the latter and the Bara Brith produced by a local bakery is recommended.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 17 September 2023
- Pamnsteve110 contributionsWonderful WoodlandWhat’s not to like about a Welsh little rain ride…..everything for us was perfect , from the booking to the finish. Parking was easy in the designated parking area , nice little stroll through to the station , faultless booking in , short wait for the train but plenty to see and do in the main station , great cafe! Train arrived on time not like Avanti ! The journey was spectacular offering views not seen from the road . Carriages are separated in to individual six seat compartments with screens remaining from Covid times larger carriages for groups are available, so we in the end had a whole carriage to ourselves ……passenger numbers a little lighter on our day. Nice station and cafe at the end before the return journey …..there is a short steep walk to the lake which is well worth doing if able ……nice cakes in both cafes! Staff brilliant throughout, drivers helpful with photos a great day …….now looking forward to the Harbourmaster on our next trip.Visited September 2023Travelled with friendsWritten 19 September 2023
- avongirl45Stoke-on-Trent, United Kingdom119 contributionsStunning Train RideStunning scenery during our train journey. Always wanted to visit this area and if didn’t disappoint. Such friendly staff on our train, made the trip even more memorable. We only did part of the journey this time but when we return we will definitely do the rest.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 19 September 2023
- Combe maid!Ilfracombe, United Kingdom109 contributionsWonderful steam train tripFabulous day out on Ffestiniog railway! From start to finish everything was perfect. Lovely engine and carriages. Helpful friendly staff. Apart from the steam engine the star of the show is the scenery. Beautiful. Hollywood couldn’t dream it up! Only niggle people not keeping to their seats on return journey upset a few travellers. Also you book for two. You sit at a table for two. A few couples sat at tables meant for groups of four and would not budge. Leaving families taking ages to find a place. Overall a fantastic day out. Plenty of time to explore Caernarfon . Highly recommend !Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 19 September 2023
- Alison wSouthampton, United Kingdom72 contributionsSpecial place to beMy partner surprised me to ride in first class to Blaenau Ffestiniog, we arrived at the station a little early had a chat to a lovely young lady any question I asked she was happy to answer for me. As I’m disabled I was very pleased the station had disabled toilets and wow I’ve never seen such a clean toilet ever (well done, and thank you ) what a treat the train ride . On our arrival back at porthmadog station, there was a morris dancers they were absolutely fantastic to watch and what a great way to finish our trip. Thank you xVisited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 21 September 2023
- Zoe G38 contributionsBrilliantDelightful trip! Lovely day out from Porthmadog to Caernarfon, well worth the extra for the observation car. Even though we went on a misty day the views were still incredible. Will have to come back to do Porthmadog to Ffestiniog!Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 22 September 2023
- Linda T3 contributionsA joyful day outMy second visit to the Welsh Highland Railway and it didn't disappoint. The loco powered us through to Caernarvon, but in a stately was so all the fantastic scenery could be fully appreciated. The staff were cheery , informative and helpful. A great day out.Visited September 2023Travelled as a coupleWritten 22 September 2023
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4.5
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187
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26
Connector49651
1 contribution
Aug 2020
Went to North Wales for a holiday and in particular to travel on the Festiniog Railway.
My partner and I did this on 21st August. The train ride was great but I can't for the life of me understand why it is only as far as Tan Y Bwlch. The train arrived there and we had around one hour before setting off back to Poethmadog. The other concern I had was the cost. I work at my local Heritage railway and we are selling tickets in the same format as the Festiniog which is you book a compartment. I had to pay £50 for a compartment at the festiniog for two people for what in effect was half a journey. It doesn't go down well with a lot of people. I heard one or two complaints from people who had obviously like myself been before and enjoyed the railway. I realise they have to try and recoup lost revenue due to the Covid 19 pandemic but I think to charge what they are doing is a bit steep. The rest of the holiday was brilliant and I didn't come across any other places where prices had been increased.
My partner and I did this on 21st August. The train ride was great but I can't for the life of me understand why it is only as far as Tan Y Bwlch. The train arrived there and we had around one hour before setting off back to Poethmadog. The other concern I had was the cost. I work at my local Heritage railway and we are selling tickets in the same format as the Festiniog which is you book a compartment. I had to pay £50 for a compartment at the festiniog for two people for what in effect was half a journey. It doesn't go down well with a lot of people. I heard one or two complaints from people who had obviously like myself been before and enjoyed the railway. I realise they have to try and recoup lost revenue due to the Covid 19 pandemic but I think to charge what they are doing is a bit steep. The rest of the holiday was brilliant and I didn't come across any other places where prices had been increased.
Written 1 September 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hello, we are very sorry that you were disappointed with our pricing scheme. We have costed this differently to our usual train service as it is a different package scheme entirely and most visitors have thought it great value for money. We do hope to see you again once a new normal service resumes over the whole line and glad that you enjoyed the rest of your holiday.
Written 3 September 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Judie42
Chester, UK146 contributions
May 2021
I fancied a trip on a steam train for my birthday so decided to book the Ffestiniog railway and spend a night in Porthmadog the night before. I wasn't disappointed at all! We were warmly greeted on arrival and advised to choose a carriage which would be our carriage for the whole of the trip - a good idea due to the pandemic as it had been sanitised before we got in and we would be the only ones in it.
The journey was lovely and the scenery was great; we stopped at a station on the way back with a small cafe so we could get a coffee and/or snacks and have a bit of a wander round.
It was just so lovely to be on a steam train and enjoy the bygone era! I would definitely do this again. It's definitely worth spending £5 and getting the guide book from the station shop before you travel as it tells you a lot about the journey.
The journey was lovely and the scenery was great; we stopped at a station on the way back with a small cafe so we could get a coffee and/or snacks and have a bit of a wander round.
It was just so lovely to be on a steam train and enjoy the bygone era! I would definitely do this again. It's definitely worth spending £5 and getting the guide book from the station shop before you travel as it tells you a lot about the journey.
Written 8 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MGrace
Dhahran, Saudi Arabia119 contributions
Dec 2019 • Family
Me, my brother and his family (wife, 2 kids and 1 teenager) took the Santa Train by the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway from Caernarfon Station on December 21, 2019. The station was festively adorned and all personnel on holiday costumes were friendly and cheerful, adding to the festive mood. The train itself was decorated with colorful tinsels inside.
It was drizzling on and off through our train ride, however, the view along the way was still scenic. “Santa and his elves” walked through the train cars and happily chatted with everyone, especially the kids. Special gifts were given to kids 13 and below and the adults were given mince pies and a smal amount of sherry in plastic cups. Train stopped at Rhyd Ddu where everyone got to go down from the train for photos by the platform and with Santa, before it went back again to Caernarfon station.
It was a wonderful & enjoyable experience as a whole. Glad we did it!
It was drizzling on and off through our train ride, however, the view along the way was still scenic. “Santa and his elves” walked through the train cars and happily chatted with everyone, especially the kids. Special gifts were given to kids 13 and below and the adults were given mince pies and a smal amount of sherry in plastic cups. Train stopped at Rhyd Ddu where everyone got to go down from the train for photos by the platform and with Santa, before it went back again to Caernarfon station.
It was a wonderful & enjoyable experience as a whole. Glad we did it!
Written 5 January 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Neiljennings
Yatton, UK131 contributions
Oct 2021
We caught the 11.40 Back to Blaenau service which takes about one and a half hours each way with a stop for lunch in Blaenau Ffestiniog. Seating is still reduced with alternate seats empty due to covid social distancing so the train was fully booked well in advance. It rained torrentially on the way up , so there was little else to have done on such a day. The second half of the line around the reservoir is the most scenic so it is worth doing the whole journey rather than just the Woodland Wanderer to Tan y Bwlch which runs more frequently.
Written 1 November 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Stephen N
Devizes, UK6 contributions
May 2021 • Family
Disappointing and an expensive rip off.
Ffestiniog railway should be called Dduallt Railway as it only goes from Porthmadog as far as Dduallt.
New the weather was going to be bad so booked 3 adults and 1 child. £91.00 plus fees expecting to go to Ffestiniog but train turned round at Dduallt loop and we stopped for an hour in the rain at Tan Y Bwlch. Train full expected to stand in a cafe for hot drinks as only 6 tables under cover.
Even in the travellers guide, it states “Ffestiniog railway runs from Porthmadog to Ffestiniog and journey takes just under 3 hours. So we booked 15:00 train as time suggested that return trip was 17:45.
I object to sharp marketing practice that indicates you are getting something but you are getting something totally different.
Very p***ed off
Ffestiniog railway should be called Dduallt Railway as it only goes from Porthmadog as far as Dduallt.
New the weather was going to be bad so booked 3 adults and 1 child. £91.00 plus fees expecting to go to Ffestiniog but train turned round at Dduallt loop and we stopped for an hour in the rain at Tan Y Bwlch. Train full expected to stand in a cafe for hot drinks as only 6 tables under cover.
Even in the travellers guide, it states “Ffestiniog railway runs from Porthmadog to Ffestiniog and journey takes just under 3 hours. So we booked 15:00 train as time suggested that return trip was 17:45.
I object to sharp marketing practice that indicates you are getting something but you are getting something totally different.
Very p***ed off
Written 23 May 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Stephen, thank you for your review, feedback is important to us. We are sorry that you felt the trip was disappointing and not value for money. We have reviewed our fares from that of what we would charge for a full railway experience to Blaenau Ffestiniog. At every stage of the booking process online, we state that our service, at the moment, does not run all the way to Blaenau Ffestiniog, there is even a map to sow our customers this too so sorry for any confusion. The Travellers Guide is from before we had to review our services but explains about the full journey that we will hopefully be able to do again soon. The under cover seating at Tan y Bwlch is under review, as, thanks to a storm, we lost some of the seating that we did have there.
Written 24 May 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Katie3001-traveluk
2 contributions
Aug 2021 • Family
We booked the woodland wanderer for 2 adults, 2 children aged 11 and 13 and 2 dogs. On arrival all staff were very friendly and helpful. Cafe serving sandwiches, cakes and sausage rolls etc at fairly reasonable prices and clean toilet facilities available. The carts allowing dogs are wooden seated & floored which means you don’t have to worry about any muddy paw prints. We had just enough room (one medium sized and one large sized dog). After an approximately 45 minute journey we arrived at Tan y Bwlch and the tea rooms where we had a 5 minute walk along a low gradient footpath to a lovely lake. The walk back up to the tea rooms was a little more strenuous but two footpath options are given and with an hours break there is no need to rush. We had coffee and ice creams from the cafe and then the return journey back to Portmadog. The journey itself has lovely views of the mountains through the woodland. Everyone enjoyed themselves and we would definitely do it again.
Written 1 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Lisa W
Norwich, UK33 contributions
Sept 2021
Reading some of the more negative reviews on here, I actually wonder whether people were on the same train as us! This was a fantastic trip (despite the worst the Welsh weather could throw at us!) with stunning scenery all the way through. Mountains, gushing waterfalls, lakes, forests, dramatic scenery and lots of sheep, around every corner was another view to behold as you chug through stunning Snowdonia.
We did the Gelert Explorer train from Caernarfon to Beddgelert. 1 hour 45 mins each way with a 90 minute stopover in Beddgelert. We didn't get to see the village on that day as it was chucking down with rain - the train doesn't go anywhere once at the halt so we stayed on board looking smug while everyone came back dripping wet. When the rain eased we watched the steam engine changing ends of the train and got some great photos without anyone in them, and then grabbed a coffee at the station. The village actually is really pretty as we discovered driving through a few days later. We went in September on a rainy day and I can imagine how heaving it would be in summer!
You most definitely need to book ahead, every seat on the train was sold. Obviously during COVID times there are less passengers as each "compartment" seats just your party (up to 6 but mostly couples it seems). A compartment is just a table area with perspex screens between you and the next group behind but felt very COVID secure still. At £88 it is quite pricey for 2 people but you have plenty of space (we did a full 3 course picnic on our table, with wine - yes we were quite the envy of the other passengers who had to make do with a coffee and a ham roll they'd packed!). This is definitely a journey to do in style!
My recommendation - get the seat at the end of the carriage. Slightly smaller seating but as you are at the end you can stand up at the end doors and get great photos. Windows open in each bay though.
Gift shop a delight and the staff were amazing. A very well organised experience.
Nearby car parking £3.50 per day.
We loved it, thought it was worth every penny and would definitely recommend.
We did the Gelert Explorer train from Caernarfon to Beddgelert. 1 hour 45 mins each way with a 90 minute stopover in Beddgelert. We didn't get to see the village on that day as it was chucking down with rain - the train doesn't go anywhere once at the halt so we stayed on board looking smug while everyone came back dripping wet. When the rain eased we watched the steam engine changing ends of the train and got some great photos without anyone in them, and then grabbed a coffee at the station. The village actually is really pretty as we discovered driving through a few days later. We went in September on a rainy day and I can imagine how heaving it would be in summer!
You most definitely need to book ahead, every seat on the train was sold. Obviously during COVID times there are less passengers as each "compartment" seats just your party (up to 6 but mostly couples it seems). A compartment is just a table area with perspex screens between you and the next group behind but felt very COVID secure still. At £88 it is quite pricey for 2 people but you have plenty of space (we did a full 3 course picnic on our table, with wine - yes we were quite the envy of the other passengers who had to make do with a coffee and a ham roll they'd packed!). This is definitely a journey to do in style!
My recommendation - get the seat at the end of the carriage. Slightly smaller seating but as you are at the end you can stand up at the end doors and get great photos. Windows open in each bay though.
Gift shop a delight and the staff were amazing. A very well organised experience.
Nearby car parking £3.50 per day.
We loved it, thought it was worth every penny and would definitely recommend.
Written 6 October 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Julie R
17 contributions
Sept 2021 • Couples
Have always wanted to do the trip from Porthmadog to Beddgelert but was quite disappointed really.
The journey was quite short and the hours stop in Beddgelert left barely enough time for a toilet break or to buy an ice cream. The walk from the train to the town took over ten minutes was down a fairly steep hill and as a lot of the people on the train were elderly and several unable to walk without sticks they had to stay on the platform or on the train. At least there was a lady selling refreshments. Am not sure if it was made clear to them before booking the exact extent of the trip and what was involved.
The train was lovely and felt very safe even though it was quite full and all the staff were very helpful and friendly. It cost £70 plus £3 for our dog who we decided not to take in the end as she is medium sized and there just would not have been room. They also charged a booking fee so total cost over £77. We have been on the trip to Blaenau Ffestiniog in the past which was a much better experience and better value giving us time to walk around and have lunch in a local cafe. I understand that the railway needs to make up for the time it had to be closed during the pandemic but feel it could be improved in terms of price, length of time in Beddgelert and how that time would impact on less able people.
The journey was quite short and the hours stop in Beddgelert left barely enough time for a toilet break or to buy an ice cream. The walk from the train to the town took over ten minutes was down a fairly steep hill and as a lot of the people on the train were elderly and several unable to walk without sticks they had to stay on the platform or on the train. At least there was a lady selling refreshments. Am not sure if it was made clear to them before booking the exact extent of the trip and what was involved.
The train was lovely and felt very safe even though it was quite full and all the staff were very helpful and friendly. It cost £70 plus £3 for our dog who we decided not to take in the end as she is medium sized and there just would not have been room. They also charged a booking fee so total cost over £77. We have been on the trip to Blaenau Ffestiniog in the past which was a much better experience and better value giving us time to walk around and have lunch in a local cafe. I understand that the railway needs to make up for the time it had to be closed during the pandemic but feel it could be improved in terms of price, length of time in Beddgelert and how that time would impact on less able people.
Written 29 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Julie, thank you for your very honest review, feedback is very important to us and I shall make sure that it is fed back and we are sorry that you were disappointed.
Written 12 October 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Laura C
Sheffield, UK136 contributions
Apr 2022 • Friends
I travelled today with my son and family on the Mountain Spirit train journey, we were all excited for the experience and my 2 year old son had looked forward to it since our trip up Snowdon on the train had been cancelled at short notice on Tuesday.
On arrival we eagerly chose our seats, made ourselves comfortable and enjoyed our first leg of the journey to Ffestiniog, along the way we pin pointed where to get the best photographs for the return journey. We got off the train at 11:55 thinking as it said on the itinerary that we would get a 40 minute break in Ffestiniog station, so used the facilities and stretched our legs around the station area…at 12:25 we made our way back to the platform only to see the train moving away from the station, we were all shocked and so disappointed!
We went inside the ticket office to ask why the train had left early only to find the lady behind the desk to say that it always leaves at 12:25, after we explained that we had left our belongings on the train, she did phone through to the main office and explained that our belongings were on the train, their reply wasn’t really very helpful… all she said was that we would either have to get a bus or a taxi back to Porthmadog station. We rang a local taxi company who came shortly afterwards and took us back to Porthmadog for £30.00. When we arrived back, the manager at Porthmadog was very helpful, however by that point it was too late, suggesting he would have picked us up if we’d have rung the station. We believed that’s what his colleague had done from Ffestiniog station.
This is such a shame after spending so much money on something we only saw half of, we left feeling very disappointed.
On arrival we eagerly chose our seats, made ourselves comfortable and enjoyed our first leg of the journey to Ffestiniog, along the way we pin pointed where to get the best photographs for the return journey. We got off the train at 11:55 thinking as it said on the itinerary that we would get a 40 minute break in Ffestiniog station, so used the facilities and stretched our legs around the station area…at 12:25 we made our way back to the platform only to see the train moving away from the station, we were all shocked and so disappointed!
We went inside the ticket office to ask why the train had left early only to find the lady behind the desk to say that it always leaves at 12:25, after we explained that we had left our belongings on the train, she did phone through to the main office and explained that our belongings were on the train, their reply wasn’t really very helpful… all she said was that we would either have to get a bus or a taxi back to Porthmadog station. We rang a local taxi company who came shortly afterwards and took us back to Porthmadog for £30.00. When we arrived back, the manager at Porthmadog was very helpful, however by that point it was too late, suggesting he would have picked us up if we’d have rung the station. We believed that’s what his colleague had done from Ffestiniog station.
This is such a shame after spending so much money on something we only saw half of, we left feeling very disappointed.
Written 14 April 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Dear Laura and family, apologies that you had a disappointing day, not what we want for our customers. On our booking confirmation we do say that the layover is approximately 40 minutes and to check with train staff your departure time before exploring town, just in case the train is running slightly off time. I am glad that I met with you on your return and managed to repay you the taxi money and have since been in touch with the lady who made your booking offering a trip next time you are in the area so that you can get to do the whole return journey, she has my email address.
Written 15 April 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Mike W
warrington221 contributions
Sept 2021
We pre booked The Glaslyn Venture from Porthmadog harbour station to Beddgelert return. It’s a three hour round trip with one hour free to explore Beddgelert..
We were welcomed at the harbour station car park, but this is for Blue badge holders and coaches on applicable days. The attendant directed us across the way to the main public car park, behind the Shell petrol station and Wilko. In the far corner of the car park is a well sign posted-designated section for patrons of the Welsh Highland railway, it is free to park. It’s a five minute walk back to the station where we were quickly booked in for our journey. The train was ready for passengers and our booking include a perspex screened seating area for six, although there were only two of us. The idea is to be as covid safe as possible without spoiling the experience.
It wasn’t very good weather on the day of our our trip, wet and windy, but we were equipped to deal with this. The train attendant was very friendly and informative, even though he was a volunteer you could tell loved his job. Beddgelert is a nice little village, but probably not as nice as if the weather was kinder, also on a nice day it would have been good to have a little more time to explore.
The steam train experience through the Welsh countryside, hills and valleys is well worth a visit. There are toilet facilities at both stations and one facility on the train, really for urgent use. There is also a cafe at Porthmadog station, at the present time there are no catering facilities on the train. There are numerous cafes etc in Beddgelert, with a small hut on the station, serving take away tea, coffee etc.
We were welcomed at the harbour station car park, but this is for Blue badge holders and coaches on applicable days. The attendant directed us across the way to the main public car park, behind the Shell petrol station and Wilko. In the far corner of the car park is a well sign posted-designated section for patrons of the Welsh Highland railway, it is free to park. It’s a five minute walk back to the station where we were quickly booked in for our journey. The train was ready for passengers and our booking include a perspex screened seating area for six, although there were only two of us. The idea is to be as covid safe as possible without spoiling the experience.
It wasn’t very good weather on the day of our our trip, wet and windy, but we were equipped to deal with this. The train attendant was very friendly and informative, even though he was a volunteer you could tell loved his job. Beddgelert is a nice little village, but probably not as nice as if the weather was kinder, also on a nice day it would have been good to have a little more time to explore.
The steam train experience through the Welsh countryside, hills and valleys is well worth a visit. There are toilet facilities at both stations and one facility on the train, really for urgent use. There is also a cafe at Porthmadog station, at the present time there are no catering facilities on the train. There are numerous cafes etc in Beddgelert, with a small hut on the station, serving take away tea, coffee etc.
Written 28 September 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Hi,
Is it worth the extra to go on the Observation carriage as it's nearly double the price? Are the seats ok in the standard class with the table. on the quarryman from Blaenau to Porthmadog?
Written 24 July 2024
We always travel 1st class on the Ffestiniog and would recommend the Observation Car.
Written 27 July 2024
Alex R
Manchester, United Kingdom
There is currently no option to book in December for trains departing from Porthmadog- will these services be added at a later date, or is there no service at this time of year?
Written 11 October 2022
sgreig-ffwhr
Porthmadog, United Kingdom
Hello, yes we welcome dogs on our trains in standard class, when you book your tickets online there is a box for you to say how many dogs you have.
Written 4 August 2022
I have booked Caernarfon to Beddgelert for my friends birthday next week. I want to do a picnic basket for on the way. Are we able to leave it on the train when we go exploring. Thanks.
Written 11 July 2022
We were able to leave our cool bags and travel things on the train when we stopped
Written 13 July 2022
Hi, when looking at buying tickets for myself and my son (14) I can only see an option to buy 2 adult tickets - am I to presume that I buy the 2 person/adult tickets and pay full price for both of us, or is there an option to buy tickets for 1 adult with 1 child. Many thanks.
Written 14 March 2022
sgreig-ffwhr
Porthmadog, United Kingdom
Hello, to be able to book and only pay for yourself and your 14 year old son please give us a call and we can do this over the telephone for you 01766516024. Look forward to seeing you soon!
Written 5 April 2022
sgreig-ffwhr
Porthmadog, United Kingdom
Hi Ian, the train services planned are for a round trip with exploring time before the return, you can book these on our website. You can just go one way if you wish, to book that it would be best to book over the telephone 01766516024. We look forward to seeing you.
Written 9 March 2022
lizi1990
Sheffield, United Kingdom
Hello,
We are visiting Greenacres Haven site in May this year and we’re hoping to do a train journey with you.
Is there parking at the train station or nearby?
Also what journey would you recommend? There’ll be 2 adults and 2 children aged 10 & 11.
Is it best to pre book too?
Sorry for all the questions, it’s our first visit to wales.
Any help or advice would be greatly received.
Thanks
Lizzie
Written 19 February 2022
sgreig-ffwhr
Porthmadog, United Kingdom
Hi, you will love your first trip to North Wales, it is a very special place and so much to see and do! We run a mixture of services of varying lengths, all through stunning scenery, in our state of the art carriages, or a heritage experience. All the service information can be found on our website and it is best to book in advance. Look forward to seeing you soon!
Written 9 March 2022
8/11/2021 We are coming to Ffestiniog 11/8/21. My maternal grandmother was born there 12/29/1895 @ 5 (could be 3) May St. Want to explore area for a few days & hopefully find records of her birth. Her last name was Owens. She & parents came to the USA about 1897. Her dad was a slater. Looking for advice on accomodations with breakfast for a few days for my husband & I. We want to do the slate mining tour. What else?? Thanks. Marcia D. Shad Port Orange, Florida USA
Written 11 August 2021
sgreig-ffwhr
Porthmadog, United Kingdom
Our railways are very much part of the slate history of the area so please follow the link to the website for more information how to book. There is Llechwedd Slate Caverns, Porthmadog Maritime Museum and the National Slate Museum in Llanberis. The Royal Sportsman, Tudor Lodge, Travelodge and The Golden Fleece are offer accommodation in the local area, as well as Snowdonia Letting Services
Written 13 August 2021
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