It's the Year of the Trail and there's no better time to jump aboard the Vale of Rheidol Railway than 2023.
The journey takes you from Cardigan Bay in Ceredigion along the lush green valley of Cwm Rheidol into the hilly then mountainous Cambrian Mountains range. Each journey prepared by the passionate staff in the depot in Aberystwyth. Steam hot heritage!
The Vale of Rheidol Railway re-creates the Edwardian spirit of adventure. Step aboard one of their restored steam trains for a stunning journey along the Rheidol Valley.
Since opening in 1902, millions have enjoyed the scenic trip through the ancient woodlands to Devil’s Bridge, home of the famous waterfalls (separate attraction, fee applies), nestled in the astounding Cambrian Mountains.
See the countryside change as you travel through wide open fields and meadows, woodland and rugged mountain scenery. The narrow track gauge allows the railway to follow the contours of the terrain with many sharp curves and steep gradients which add to the railway’s charm.
Listen to the sound of a powerful narrow gauge steam locomotive working hard to climb 700ft (200m) during the 12 miles from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge.
Birds of prey such as Red Kite and Buzzards are regularly seen soaring high above the valley floor and breath taking views can be enjoyed by all.
Arrive in Devil's Bridge with rosy cheeks and possibly wind-swept hair as the Cambrian Mountains fresh air will definitely have had a positive effect on you.
In Devil's Bridge you'll discover a genuine Welsh and Cambrian Mountains welcome. The people here have been welcoming visitors to the area for well over 100 years and mountain vibe is clear to see and here.
Head to Two Hoots Tea Rooms for refreshments as well as venturing into the village to the Hafod Hotel and Woodlands Tea Rooms. If you have time visit the world-famous Devil's Water Waterfalls, but don't rush things though, as you can easily return again to discover the delights of Devil's Bridge.
As visited by world-famous travel writer and journalist Pip Jones in March 2020.
Pip certainly recommends a visit to The Cabin(opposite the entrance to the Devil's Bridge railway car park), where you'll meet Sarah Bunton, chocolatier extraordinaire of Sarah Bunton Chocolates.
Thanks for your time, and please check out this amazing video put together by
Scott Waby. Smiles and good vibes all the way to the Cambrian Mountains as you journey along the Vale of Rheidol Railway.