The Vale of Rheidol Railway
Aberystwyth, Ceredigion
About The Vale of Rheidol Railway
The Vale of Rheidol Railway is an iconic narrow gauge railway established in 1897, which first opened to the public on December 22, 1902. Originally designed to stimulate the local economy and support lead mines in the area, it has transformed over the years to become a beloved tourist attraction, showcasing stunning terrains impossible for standard gauge construction.
After enduring various ownership changes and the challenges of the World Wars, the railway is now a charitable trust dedicated to the restoration and improvement of its historic locomotives, carriages, and tracks. Experience the rich history and breathtaking views from our remarkable trains from Aberystwyth.
Journey 700 feet up from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge on an iconic narrow guage steam railway. Winding through the valley's sharp curves and steep slopes, for the perfect view of the Rheidol Valley’s spectacular scenery. Sit back and relax in your cozy carriage as you watch the landscape unfold around you. Travel through lush fields, serene woodlands, and rugged mountainsides as the train hugs the hillside and twists through the countryside. Feel the thrill of the narrow-gauge steam locomotive working hard on its climb, while you gaze up to see birds of prey soaring above.
Once at Devil’s Bridge, explore the village’s charming sites, including the waterfalls works and famous Three Bridge before hopping back on for the return trip, or linger a while and dive deeperinto the beautiful Cambrian Mountains, making memories that will last a lifetime.
To make your journey even more special, consider upgrading to our luxurious First Class carriages, with comfortable armchairs and unique ceiling artwork by renowned wildlife artist Terrence
Lambert.
Be sure to visit the Engine Shed Museum, a highlight of any trip to the Vale of Rheidol Railway, with free entry for all visitors. Recently refreshed, the museum now features brand-new
interactive interpretation panels that bring to life the fascinating story of this historic railway and its iconic locomotives, offering an engaging experience for enthusiasts and families alike.
The trackside cafe Caffi Cledrau is the perfect place to begin or round off your journey. Whether you’re stopping in for a freshly brewed coffee and homemade cake before departure or sitting down to a relaxed lunch after taking in the stunning scenery of the Rheidol Valley, the café offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
What’s included:
Train journey – 24 mile round trip
Free admission to the Engine Shed display at Aberystwyth Station.
Highlights
See 12 miles of stunning Welsh scenery on one of the most spectacular railway journeys in the UK.
Travel behind one of our vintage steam locomotives built in the 1920s
See the red kites. Once threatened with extinction, these birds of prey are often seen from the train
Talk to our friendly and knowledgeable loco crews, guards and station staff
There is the option to visit the famous Devil’s Bridge Waterfalls and discover the legend of Devil’s Bridge. This is a separate visitor attraction. Admission fee applies.
Stunning Scenery from the Coast to the Cambrian Mountains
Journey 700 feet up from Aberystwyth to Devil’s Bridge on an iconic narrow guage steam railway. Winding through the valley's sharp curves and steep slopes, for the perfect view of the Rheidol Valley’s spectacular scenery. Sit back and relax in your cozy carriage as you watch the landscape unfold around you. Travel through lush fields, serene woodlands, and rugged mountainsides as the train hugs the hillside and twists through the countryside. Feel the thrill of the narrow-gauge steam locomotive working hard on its climb, while you gaze up to see birds of prey soaring above.
Once at Devil’s Bridge, explore the village’s charming sites, including the waterfalls works and famous Three Bridge before hopping back on for
the return trip, or linger a while and dive deeperinto the beautiful Cambrian Mountains, making memories that will last a lifetime.
To make your journey even more special, consider upgrading to our luxurious First Class carriages, with comfortable armchairs and unique ceiling artwork by renowned wildlife artist Terrence
Lambert.
Engine Shed Museum
Be sure to visit the Engine Shed Museum, a highlight of any trip to the Vale of Rheidol Railway, with free entry for all visitors. Recently refreshed, the museum now features brand-new
interactive interpretation panels that bring to life the fascinating story of this historic railway and its iconic locomotives, offering an engaging experience for enthusiasts and families alike.
Trackside Cafe
The trackside cafe Caffi Cledrau is the perfect place to begin or round off your journey. Whether you’re stopping in for a freshly brewed coffee and homemade cake before departure or sitting down to a relaxed lunch after taking in the stunning scenery of the Rheidol Valley, the café offers a warm and welcoming atmosphere for all visitors.
Facilities
Toilets
Gift Shop
Onsite Parking
Accessible Toilets
Baby Changing
Food Available
Wheelchair Friendly
Dog Friendly
Pushchair Friendly
Card Payments Accepted
Opening Times
- Monday, 09:00 - 17:30
- Tuesday, 09:00 - 17:30
- Wednesday, 09:00 - 17:30
- Thursday, 09:00 - 17:30
- Friday, 09:00 - 17:30
- Saturday, 09:00 - 17:30
- Sunday, 09:00 - 17:30
New for 2026 - half term trains to our Capel Bangor Station
14th to 22nd February
Daily trains from 28th March to 1st November 2026 Please see our website for more details
Pricing & Tickets
- Adult (16-18+) : £38.50
- Child (4-17) : £12.50
- Babies and Toddlers (0-2) : Free
Dogs (standard class travel only) £4.00
First Class Travel:
Adult Return £62.00
Child Return £31.00
Book in advance for cheapest tickets
Find other attractions similar to The Vale of Rheidol Railway by visiting our attraction tickets section.
Plan Your Visit
Typical visit time 3 - 4 hours
Suitable for Kids and Adults too
Food & Drink Options
At our Aberystwyth Station you can find Caffi Cledrau, our on site cafe serving a range of hot and cold drinks, snacks, homemade cakes, ice creams and light lunches.
Dog friendly.
FAQs
Parking
Toilets
Family Friendly Options
Food & Drink
Accessibility Information
Tickets & Bookings
Private Hire & Birthday Parties
Public Transport
Contact Details
Vale Of Rheidol Railway
Park Avenue
Aberystwyth
Ceredigion
SY23 1PG
Wales
Follow the Brown Coloured train signs from the edge of the town and they will guide you directly to our car park.
Tel: 01970625819
Visit WebsiteTransport Information
Bus, Train or Taxi.
Verification & Last Updated
Verified Status:
This attraction has been claimed and verified. All information has been recently checked.
Last Updated: 12:11 17/02/2026
The Vale of Rheidol Railway Reviews
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