Ffestiniog Railway

The Ffestiniog Railway is the oldest independent railway company in the world. It was opened in 1836 to carry slates from the mines in Blaenau Ffestiniog to the harbour in Porthmadog from where they were exported all over the world in locally built wooden sailing ships. In its heyday the railway carried 130,000 tons of slate a year but when other roofing materials were found the railway had to eventually close in 1946.

There were many attempts to re-open the railway but it seemed impossible after years of neglect. In 1954 the Ffestiniog Railway Society was set up to help rebuild the railway. After 36 years of dereliction, the final mile was restored in 1982. Much of the restoration work was carried out by skilled and unskilled volunteers. There is still a need for volunteers now. All volunteers become members. Membership of the Ffestiniog Railway Society entitles you to free and reduced rail travel on the Ffestiniog and Talyllyn Railways.

You can expect to see some spectacular scenery while on the steam train such as the Snowdonia National Park, which is between Blaenau Ffestiniog and Porthmadog. They also have The Talking Train, which offers a whole new experience. It provides the latest in audio technology that takes you on a tour and reveals fascinating stories behind the view from the carriage window. There are two newly restored trains available, one is from the 1930's and the other is from the 1870's.