The Talyllyn Railway is a historic narrow-gauge steam railway, set in the beautiful Mid-Wales countryside. Running from Tywyn to Abergynolwyn and Nant Gwernol, the line passes the delightful Dolgoch Falls and there are excellent forest walks at Nant Gwernol. As the World’s first preserved railway, the Talyllyn Railway celebrated 60 years of preservation in 2011.
Built on a gauge of 2 feet 3 inches, the Talyllyn Railway is one of a number of narrow-gauge lines in north and mid Wales built in the 19th century to carry slate. Opened in 1865, the line runs the seven and a quarter miles from Tywyn (on the Cardigan Bay coast) to Nant Gwernol, from where a series of horse-drawn tramways continued into the mountains. The slate traffic ceased in 1946 following a serious rock fall in the quarry.
The line still retains its Victorian charm and friendly atmosphere and passengers still enjoy a leisurely journey through superb scenery in well polished trains reflecting the pride that railways used to display.
We hope you will come and visit our historic, steam-operated railway and enjoy meeting the friendly volunteer staff. The line runs for seven and a quarter miles (11.8 km) through the beautiful and unchanging Fathew valley.
Throughout the year we run special events so please take a look at our events page. Our Santa Specials are a treat for all the family and a taste of Christmas past.
