14:20 service from Porthmadog - Blaenau Ffestiniog - One Way
Following a huge rebuilding programme spanning nearly 30 years, including the building of a spiral, miles of new track bed and a tunnel, and involving the effort of hundreds of volunteers, the Ffestiniog Railway proudly steamed back to Blaenau Ffestiniog on 25th May 1982.
This service will normally be hauled by the unique Double Fairlie locomotives designed over 150 years ago to haul large trains on the steep gradients and sharp curves of the Ffestiniog line. These quirky locomotives have all been built in our own historic workshops at Boston Lodge with stalwart Merddin Emrys the oldest completed in 1879 and David Lloyd George in 1992, whilst a brand-new Fairlie, James Spooner, is under construction with completion planned late 2022. The modern carriages too have been built at Boston Lodge, including our beautiful Pullman observation carriages which are available on this train, so this is the ultimate Ffestiniog Experience.
During your journey look out for the changing scenery as the train crosses the estuary along the Cob embankment before climbing up the valley, through pastures and villages before entering the ancient wooded slopes of the valley side. On leaving picturesque Tan-y-Bwlch station, the train leaves the trees behind as it clings to the valley side. After rounding the spiral at Dduallt and passing through the tunnel, the train emerges beside Llyn Ystradau reservoir and the slate tips beckon. Each section has its fascinating story and your journey is much enhanced by the Traveller’s Guide with its open out map and line guide to enable you to follow the route.
