Excursion Narrow gauge railway & welsh countryside tour at Holyhead

Take this opportunity to travel on the world-famous Ffestiniog Railway, aboard a unique steam-hauled narrow-gauge train.

Leaving Holyhead by road, cross the island of Anglesey with its landscapes of meadows, farmland and low-lying hills, and over the Menai Strait, via Caernarfon and south to Porthmadog, an attractive busy little town standing on an inlet of Tremadoc Bay. With fine views across the bay to the mountains of Snowdonia, Porthmadog was once a flourishing port, its prosperity built on the slate trade.

Here begin your journey on the Ffestiniog Railway, the oldest of the Welsh narrow-gauge railways, founded in 1832 to bring slate from the quarries of Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog for shipment. The railway closed in 1964 but has since been restored and is now one of the most popular attractions of North Wales. A steam-hauled narrow-gauge train runs along a 21 kilometre (13.5 mile) mainline in miniature from the coastline at Porthmadog into the mountains at Blaenau Ffestiniog.

Your memorable journey climbs 213 metres (700 feet) through tranquil pastures and magnificent forests, past lakes and waterfalls, round horseshoe bends and even in a complete spiral. Every twist and turn brings magnificent vistas.

Upon arrival in Blaenau, re-board your coach and travel via the beautiful Snowdonia National Park, to Betws-y-Coed, a scenic village located at the meeting point of the Llugwy and Conwy Rivers and popular with hill walkers and adventure seekers. Lunch will be served at a local restaurant before you enjoy time at leisure to explore this charming village and browse in the shops.

Relax on the return journey to Holyhead

Points of interests

Points of interest seen on this excursion may include: Narrow Gorge Steam Railway

Note

Please note: This tour involves a minimal amount of walking for up to 550 yards (503 metres), with a few steps to negotiate to get on/off the coach and narrow gauge railcar. Walking is at the discretion of each guest. This tour is suitable for guests with limited mobility and guests who utilise a wheelchair; however, some trains have wheelchair and restroom limitations. The Railway and Welsh countryside locations may vary. Lightweight, comfortable clothing, flat, closed-toe walking shoes and sun protection are recommended. The tour involves extensive driving of up to 2 hour each way to reach the railway.