Steam power, slate and Thomas the Tank Engine – this heritage railway has it all
Who doesn't love a ride on a steam train through the countryside? Talyllyn Railway began life in 1866 as the first narrow-gauge railway in Britain designed to be worked by steam locomotives; it served the slate quarries in the hills above Tywyn. In the early 20th century the line also carried passengers and a growing number of tourists.
After the quarries closed, Talyllyn scored another first when it became the first railway to be taken over and run by enthusiasts. It opened as a heritage railway in 1951, and the line’s preservation inspired the Ealing comedy film The Titfield Thunderbolt two years later. The route runs from Tywyn to Abergynolwn and Nant Gwernol, passing Dolgoch Falls along the way. At Nant Gwernol take a stroll along the footpath to the ‘mineral extension railway’ at Bryn Eglwys Quarry.
Make sure you stop by the Narrow Gauge Railway Museum at Tywyn Wharf Station, which celebrates the history of such enterprises. The museum includes a re-creation of the study of the Reverend Wilbert Awdry – a supporter of Talyllyn Railway and author of the cherished Thomas the Tank Engine series of children’s books.
The village of Abergynolwyn, originally laid out to accommodate quarrymen, is the perfect place to complete your trip with a cup of tea at the cafe.
Please check the Talyllyn Railway website
Tywyn is on the A493 road from Machynlleth to Dolgellau.
Tywyn - ½ mile
Cycle route nearby
Most carriages have disabled access
Full Figure Grid Reference: Tywyn (main station): SH 585004 Abergynolwyn station: SH 671063 OS Landranger map sheet: 124