Welsh Highland Railway Journey with Ffestiniog Railways
Difficulty
easy
Duration
2–3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the main activity is train travel with minimal walking during the village stop.
Overview
Ride the historic Welsh Highland Railway from Porthmadog to Beddgelert on a scenic half-day journey featuring stunning landscapes, a village break, and classic steam locomotion.
The Aberglaslyn Half Day - Standard
Porthmadog - Beddgelert & return. Approx 1hr 20 min at Beddgelert.
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About This Adventure
Experience the charm of the Welsh Highland Railway on a scenic journey from Porthmadog to the enchanting village of Beddgelert. Enjoy a leisurely 2-hour 40-minute trip, complete with a break to explore, savor refreshments, and appreciate the historic locomotive. Enhance your adventure with the Traveller’s Guide and ‘FfWHR Explore’ app.
The Aberglaslyn Half Day- Standard##
Travelling the southern end of the Welsh Highland Railway, this service starts at Porthmadog’s Harbour Station and journeys inland to the pretty village of Beddgelert. Journey
Journey
- Journey duration – approx. 2 hours 40 minutes including break at Beddgelert to explore the picturesque village, enjoy some refreshments and admire the locomotive before the return journey.
- The journey is much enhanced by the Traveller’s Guide and the ‘FfWHR Explore’ app, which are available to pre-book and download respectively.
Catering
- Spooner’s Cafe / Bar open from 09:00 – 21:00, serving breakfasts, light bites and evening meals, with take away options available.
Toilets
- Small toilet cubicle on board train, with main toilet facilities available at both Porthmadog and Beddgelert stations.
Dogs
- Dogs are allowed in standard class and require a ticket.
Fares
Adult - £41.50 Child - £5 Dog - £5 Plus Booking Fee
Adventure Tips
Reserve Tickets in Advance
This popular trip can fill quickly, especially on weekends and holidays, so book ahead to secure your seat.
Use the FfWHR Explore App
Download the app before your trip to access detailed maps, historical notes, and wildlife info along the route.
Bring Layers
Weather in Snowdonia can shift rapidly; pack a waterproof jacket and warm clothing even in summer.
Mind the Break Time
You’ll have about 80 minutes at Beddgelert—use it to explore the village or grab a snack, but stay mindful of your return time.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red kites soaring overhead
- Otters along the riverbanks
History
The Welsh Highland Railway retraces routes once vital to Wales’s slate mining industry, operational initially in the early 1900s.
Conservation
Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways promote sustainable tourism by maintaining historic infrastructure and supporting local wildlife habitats along the route.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bangor
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Protects you from rain and wind typical in North Wales.
spring specific
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Useful for strolling Beddgelert and station platforms.
Binoculars
Helps spot wildlife and distant landscape features along the route.
Layered Clothing
Allows you to adjust warmth and comfort as weather changes.