Take a ride on this narrow-gauge gem – and its mini version.
At Porthmadog jump on the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway. Run by volunteers, it covers a steam-operated route of ¾ mile to Pen-y-Mount, which takes around an hour. This type of 2 ft narrow-gauge railway was developed in Gwynedd to transport slate from the quarries to harbours such as Porthmadog. Both the slate cargo and the idea of narrow-gauge railways were exported worldwide.
The train will stop at the museum. Here you can find out more about Porthmadog’s small railways and the various ways of powering them – horse, gravity, steam, diesel and electricity. The museum is decidedly hands-on, allowing you to sit at the controls of a shunting locomotive and discover why it is driven sideways. A ride on the miniature railway around the engine sheds and woods is not to be missed. The rails are only 7 inches wide, and the route features a tunnel, bridge and viaduct!
Those wanting to know more about the world famous narrow-gauge railways can stock up on reading material in the specialist bookshop. Don’t forget to call in at the tearoom before you go. You can also travel along a breathtaking route on the Welsh Highland Railway by catching a train at Porthmadog for Caernarfon.
Generally April to October – check Welsh Highland Heritage Railway website
Off A487 opposite mainline station
Porthmadog station - 100 yards
Bus stop outside mainline station
On National Cycle Route 8
Dogs allowed, wheelchair accessible carriage
Full Grid Reference Number: SH 567391 OS Landranger map sheet: 124