Historic Luxury Rail Journey with Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; mostly seated with short walking during layover
Overview
Ride the luxurious Mountain Spirit - Gold on the historic Ffestiniog Railway, journeying through Wales’s breathtaking slate landscapes. Experience vintage Pullman comfort paired with gourmet treats and scenic breaks in Blaenau Ffestiniog.
Mountain Spirit - Gold
Porthmadog - Blaenau Ffestiniog and return. Approx 50 min layover at Blaenau
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About This Adventure
Experience the elegance of the Mountain Spirit on the historic Ffestiniog Railway. Travel in luxurious First Class Pullman carriages for a three-hour journey, complete with a scenic break in Blaenau Ffestiniog. Enjoy gourmet picnic boxes and refreshments while immersing yourself in the stunning landscapes and rich history of the railway.
Mountain Spirit – Gold##
The Mountain Spirit is our flagship service on the historic Ffestiniog Railway... make it extra special by travelling Gold!
Travel in one of our luxurious First Class Pullman carriages, modern in years but ageless in quality, which have been expertly constructed and finished in our Boston Lodge workshops and offer passengers a golden opportunity to travel in style.
Journey
- Journey duration – approx. 3 hours including break at Blaenau Ffestiniog to stretch your legs, take some photos, get 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
- Take away picnic boxes from Blaenau Ffestiniog available to purchase in advance.
- Spooner’s Cafe / Bar open from 09:00 – 21:00, serving breakfasts, light bites and evening meals, with take away options available.
- Cold drinks both alcoholic and non-alcoholic, a range of snacks, available on board the train.
Toilets
- Small toilet cubicle on board train, with main toilet facilities available at both Porthmadog and Blaenau Ffestiniog stations.
Dogs
- Dogs are not allowed in First Class with the exception of Guide Dogs. Dogs are allowed in standard class and require a ticket.
Top: First-Class Carriage 150 Pullman Seating Bottom: First-Class Carriage 150 Observation Seating !First-Class Carriage 150 Pullman Seating / First-Class Carriage 150 Observation Seating
Fares
Observation - Adult - £74 Observation - Child - £37 Pullman - Adult - £70 Pullman - Child - £35 Plus Booking Fee
Adventure Tips
Book in Advance for Best Seating
First Class Pullman carriages have limited seats, so secure your spot early to enjoy optimal views and service.
Bring a Lightweight Jacket
Wales’s weather can be unpredictable; a light, weatherproof layer will keep you comfortable during station stops or open carriage views.
Download the FfWHR App
Enhance your journey with the Traveller’s Guide and app for insightful commentary and route details.
Prepare for a Scenic Layover
Use the 50-minute Blaenau Ffestiniog break to stretch, take photos, and visit local cafes before the return trip.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red kite soaring over valleys
- Sheep grazing on hillsides
History
The Ffestiniog Railway, established in 1836, is one of the oldest narrow-gauge railways, originally built to transport slate from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog harbor.
Conservation
The railway operates with a focus on preserving Welsh industrial heritage and promoting low-impact tourism in Snowdonia's sensitive landscapes.
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Adventure Hotspots in Bangor
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Waterproof Jacket
Protects against spring showers during outdoor stops.
spring specific
Camera
Captures sweeping landscapes and historic locomotives.
Comfortable Walking Shoes
Use for station layover stretches and photo opportunities.
Light Layered Clothing
Keeps you comfortable in warmer carriages and variable outdoor temps.
summer specific